Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner for Self-Build Homes
Allan Corfield Architects (ACA) has been a leader in architectural design since 2009, specialising in self-build homes, extensions, and sustainable construction. With over 550 successful projects across the UK, we combine innovation with practicality to deliver tailored solutions. Our team prioritises energy efficiency, utilising modern methods like Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and Timber Frame construction. Clients benefit from our immersive Virtual Reality design tool, enabling real-time visualisation of their future homes. As a one-stop shop, we offer integrated structural engineering through our sister company, Allan Corfield Structures, ensuring seamless project execution.Our fixed-cost pricing model provides transparency, avoiding percentage-based fees tied to build costs. ACAs expertise extends to Passive House certification, planning applications, and pre-loved home designs, catering to both first-time self-builders and experienced developers. Our commitment to client education is evident through free consultations, seminars, and comprehensive guides. With offices in Dunfermline and Swindon, we blend technical precision with a client-centric approach, ensuring every project meets exacting standards of quality and sustainability.
Services
Self-Build Architecture
House Extensions
Structural Engineering
Virtual Reality Design
Pre-Loved Home Designs
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have completed over 550 self-build projects since 2009.
- Our designs prioritise energy efficiency using Fabric First principles.
- We offer immersive Virtual Reality walkthroughs for precise visualisation.
- Integrated structural engineering services via our sister company ACS.
- Fixed-cost pricing ensures transparency with no hidden fees.
Associations and certifications
- Passive House Institute
What people say
Excellent resources
Helpful consultations
Innovative VR tool
Transparent pricing
Energy-efficient focus
Services
Self-Build Architecture
Our self-build architecture service guides clients through every stage of creating bespoke homes. We specialise in energy-efficient designs using SIPs, Timber Frame, and ICF methods. Clients receive fixed-cost packages covering planning, technical drawings, and on-site supervision. Our BIMx software enables 3D visualisation, while our sister company provides structural engineering support. Ideal for first-time builders and experienced developers seeking sustainable solutions.
House Extensions
We design cost-effective house extensions tailored to modern living needs. Services include measured surveys, planning applications, and building warrant submissions. Our fixed-fee packages cover single-storey sunrooms to attic conversions. Utilising Permitted Development rights where possible, we streamline approvals. Structural engineering integration ensures compliance, while VR walkthroughs aid design decisions. Perfect for homeowners seeking additional space without relocation.
Structural Engineering
Allan Corfield Structures offers specialist engineering for residential projects. Expertise includes foundation design, steel connections, and load-bearing calculations for extensions or new builds. Services cover soil investigations, SER-certified documentation, and on-site inspections. Integrated with architectural design for efficiency, ensuring structural integrity aligns with aesthetic goals. Supports complex projects like Passivhaus and timber-frame constructions.
Virtual Reality Design
Our VR service allows clients to experience designs in immersive 3D environments. Features include real-time material adjustments, weather simulations, and spatial walkthroughs. Enhances decision-making by identifying design tweaks pre-construction. Complements BIMx models and CGI renders. Available as an add-on for self-builds and extensions, reducing costly changes during builds through early visual validation.
Pre-Loved Home Designs
Cost-effective pre-designed homes starting at 999, adaptable to individual needs. Options include basic layouts to fully customised plans with planning permission support. Saves time versus bespoke design while maintaining architectural quality. Includes 24-hour delivery and VR walkthroughs. Ideal for self-builders seeking proven designs with flexibility for personalisation and budget control.
People
Allan Corfield
Owner and Founder
Allan founded ACA in 2009 with a vision to simplify self-building. With decades of architectural experience, he champions sustainable design and client education. His leadership drives ACAs innovative approach, including VR technology and Passive House expertise.
Jenny Chandela
US Registered Architect
Jenny leads ACAs Swindon office, offering consultations and VR sessions. A US-registered architect, she bridges transatlantic design insights and hosts the Self Build Hour webinar series, sharing industry expertise with aspiring self-builders.
Iga Panczyna
Chartered Architect & Passive House Expert
Iga specialises in low-energy homes, combining Passive House certification with over a decade of UK housing experience. She guides clients through sustainable design, ensuring high efficiency standards while maintaining aesthetic and functional excellence in custom builds.
Questions
What services do Allan Corfield Architects offer?
We specialise in self-build architecture, house extensions, structural engineering, VR design visualisation, and pre-loved home plans. Our fixed-cost packages cover all project stages from planning to completion.
How does the free initial consultation work?
Book a 30-40 minute Zoom session to discuss your project’s budget, site, and design goals. Bring sketches or a Pinterest board. Paid options offer detailed design reviews and fixed-fee proposals.
Can I customise pre-designed home plans?
Yes. Our pre-loved designs start at £999 and can be adapted with basic changes or full planning customisation. Options include adding VR walkthroughs or full regulatory approvals.
Do you work outside the UK?
Primarily UK-based, but our VR and consultation services support international clients. Structural engineering and planning expertise applies to UK projects only.
What construction methods do you recommend?
We advocate Fabric First principles using SIPs, Timber Frame, and ICF for energy efficiency. Our Passive House-certified designs ensure minimal heat loss and long-term sustainability.
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