Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Architectural Design Solutions
Established in 1999, Thorns Young has built a reputation for excellence in domestic architectural design and building surveying. Our team combines over 50 years of collective experience with a client-focused approach, ensuring every project meets both regulatory standards and individual client needs. We specialise in planning applications, building regulations compliance, and structural calculations, working closely with local authorities to streamline the approval process. Our directors bring decades of hands-on construction expertise, offering practical solutions to complex challenges. With a commitment to transparency and quality, we provide tailored architectural services ranging from extensions to new builds.Our in-house structural calculations capability sets us apart from many local firms. We prioritise clear communication, offering free consultations to guide clients through project requirements, costs, and timelines. Client testimonials consistently highlight our professionalism, efficiency, and ability to deliver approved plans promptly. As partners in the LABC national Partner Authority Scheme, we ensure consistent regulatory interpretation and dedicated support. Our team's technical proficiency in CAD software and understanding of evolving legislation guarantees reliable, future-proof designs.
Services
Extensions
Loft Conversions
Structural Calculations
Planning Applications
Building Regulations Compliance
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer 25 years' combined experience in domestic architectural design
- Our team conducts structural calculations in-house for all project sizes
- We maintain dedicated partnerships with local planning authorities
- We provide free initial consultations with no-obligation project guidance
- Our Revit-trained technicians ensure precise digital design implementation
Associations and certifications
- LABC Partner Authority Scheme
What people say
Great service
Prompt and professional
High quality plans
Seamless service
Clear advice
Services
Extensions
We design and manage residential extension projects from concept to approval. Our team handles planning applications, building regulations submissions, and structural calculations. With extensive experience in local authority requirements, we ensure smooth approvals for kitchen, bathroom, and living space expansions. Clients benefit from our Revit-based 3D modelling for accurate visualisation.
Structural Calculations
Our in-house structural calculation service covers all project sizes. We produce detailed load-bearing assessments, material specifications, and compliance documentation. This specialist capability accelerates project timelines while maintaining technical accuracy. Clients receive clear explanations of structural requirements for conversions, new builds, and renovation projects.
Planning Applications
We act as client agents for planning applications, managing council submissions and communications. Our established relationships with local authorities help navigate complex regulations. We provide feasibility assessments, required documentation, and ongoing application monitoring to maximise approval chances for residential and commercial developments.
Loft Conversions
We specialise in transforming loft spaces into functional living areas. Our service includes feasibility studies, building regulations compliance, and integration with existing structures. Clients receive comprehensive design packages with precise measurements and structural considerations. We handle all council submissions and provide ongoing project support.
Building Regulations Compliance
We ensure all projects meet current building standards through detailed compliance documentation. Our team prepares technical drawings, submits to local authorities, and coordinates inspections. With dedicated LABC partnership status, we provide consistent regulatory interpretation and streamlined approval processes for residential and commercial developments.
People
Brian Thorns
Director & Building Surveyor
Building Surveyor with expertise in structural problem-solving. 25+ years' experience addressing complex construction challenges while maintaining design integrity. Specialises in technical accuracy for residential and commercial projects.
Chris Curnow
Director
Architectural designer with 40 years' hands-on construction experience. Renowned for practical solutions to complex building challenges. Provides technical leadership across all project types.
Rebecca Nash
Director & Architectural Technician
Revit-certified director with 17 years' experience. Joined in 2007, progressing to director in 2020. Specialises in digital design implementation and technical drawing production.
Conner Mallen
Architectural Technician
Graduate in Architectural Technology with seven years' experience. Revit-trained technician handling planning challenges and office IT systems. Recognised for producing high-quality plans.
Jan Ancell
Receptionist & Company Secretary
Office manager since company formation. Handles financial administration and client communications. Provides continuity across all business operations and client interactions.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in domestic projects including extensions, loft conversions, new builds, and structural calculations. Our services cover planning applications, building regulations compliance, and full construction drawings.
Do you handle planning permission applications?
Yes, we act as your agent for planning applications. We prepare documentation, submit to local authorities, and monitor progress to ensure timely approvals.
Can you assist with building regulations compliance?
We provide full building regulations submissions. Our LABC partnership ensures consistent interpretation and streamlined approval processes for all residential and commercial projects.
What areas do you cover?
We primarily serve Portsmouth, Chichester, Fareham, and surrounding Hampshire areas. Our established local authority relationships enable efficient processing across these regions.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free no-obligation consultations. This includes project assessment, regulatory guidance, and cost estimates to help you make informed decisions.
How long does the planning process take?
Typical planning applications take 8-10 weeks. Our experience with local authorities helps expedite processing, though times may vary depending on project complexity and council workload.
