The General Architecture Company Ltd

As a building company, we have completed many projects designed by the General Architecture Company over the years. We love working from Matt and Kevin's drawings- having a detailed and accurate set of drawings makes life so much easier for us and the clients, both during the quoting process, and in the actual construction. They are so careful to make sure that everything works and is actually buildable, and they are always on hand to resolve or advise on anything that comes up during the build. This really saves a lot of time and greatly reduces the risk of additional costs for us and the clients. We look at many, many drawings from architects, and these guys are definitely up there with the best!

I would highly recommend The General Architecture Company. Kevin completed a great set of drawings for my 1st floor extension in Bournville, with a few options and ideas I hadn’t thought of myself. I now have a beautiful new spacious bedroom which blends well into the house and surrounding area. Kevin was always professional, prompt, clearly very knowledgeable with a huge amount of experience and took the stress away of what was a very daunting task. Thanks you!

I had the pleasure of working with The General Architecture Company for our project, and I must say they exceeded our expectations. From start to finish, they provided clear guidance on the Bournville design guide and ensured that our space was created within the constraints of Bournville houses in Birmingham. Throughout the entire process, Kevin was a pleasure to work with. He was always available to support us during discussions with the construction company, and his expertise and professionalism were clearly evident. The space created for us is absolutely amazing, and we couldn't be happier with the results. In fact, it's worth mentioning that they were one of the first, if not the first, to successfully implement a dormer that adheres to the new Bournville design guidelines. Overall, I highly recommend The General Architecture Company. Their knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to client satisfaction make them a top choice for architectural services.

Matt Parr, has done an excellent set of plans on our dated, non functional, detached house in Bournville. The house has had a number of ad hoc extension over time, which has been detrimental to the true potential of this house. My wife & I, didn’t have the vision on how to achieve our aims, we explained to Matt what we would like and he came back to us with a number of options. Matt’s vision & understanding of architecture is going to transform this house into a modern stylish home. Nothing was to much trouble & we knew Matt was very busy as he had taken on new staff, but nothing was ever hurried. Matt & his company, The General Architecture Company, are highly recommended.

The Moseley Building Company have been building Matt and Kevin’s projects now for several years throughout the West Midlands in Moseley, Edgbaston and Harborne. Over this time, we have consistently found Matt and Kevin to produce highly detailed, technically accomplished drawings and specifications which help us to give accurate and competitive quotations. As builders we are always very happy when we receive a set of the General Architecture Company’s drawings for pricing. Their detailed survey enables us to accurately calculate the materials required, thus not giving inflated prices to the customer. As builders they give us confidence in the project and that everything will have been thought of. They are always available for a conversation if any un-anticipated issues occur which is priceless for us as builders. There are never any issues with Building Regulations. Matt and Kevin are ideal when you are looking after a quality job within budget. They are always highly praised by potential clients for creativity, attention to detail and service. When it comes to carrying out the build the drawings are fully dimensioned including detailed construction plans, section and elevations. The electrical & lighting drawings, services, drainage and demolitions drawings are always easy to understand and help us to complete the build to a high quality finish. There is also the option of a 3D animation of the project which enables you to see the final finished outcome, for those who find it difficult to visualise from technical drawings. We know that the drawings are an investment but the detail and information on the GAC’s technical drawings will save you money on your project. The drawings reduce the risk of the un-expected, make the scope of work absolutely clear and the outcome simpler to achieve. We would highly recommend Kevin and Matt, they will help you to create a beautifully designed and built project and they have great relationships with their clients.

Kevin has been amazing throughout from wonderful initial concepts to the finished plans and responding to technical queries he has kept us renovation newbies inspired and informed throughout. We are still blown away by how much light and space Kevin has managed to unlock from our modest 3 bed semi. We are well underway with our build now and cannot wait to see Kevin's designs come to life.

We found Kevin to be extremely helpful and knowledgeable when working through our requirements for our house renovation. He was patient with our questions and changes and offered helpful advice and suggestions to help shape the project. Importantly for us, he steered the planning process and worked to ensure questions were answered robustly for our conservation area. Kevin also recommended a number of builders and we approached them all and are happy with the selection. The building work is now underway and the builders are happy with the plans. Highly recommended!!!

We used the GA Co. to come up with a scheme to make sense of our quirky Victorian terrace in Kinver. This involves a reconfiguration of upstairs spaces and a large side and rear downstairs extension. We mostly dealt with Kevin, who has been patient and listened to our needs throughout, he is a pleasure to deal with. Kevin came up with lots of different ideas and schemes so we could fully explore what we wanted and needed prior to submitting to planning. Kevin prepared and managed the planning process, providing quick responses when required (our property has the added complication of being in a conservation area). We would highly recommend the GA Co. and look forward to sharing updates as the build progresses and the finished article.

We used The General Architecture Company for a ground floor extension and remodel of our house in Harborne. From our first meeting with Matt we were assured we had made the right choice. He was friendly, professional and patient. He understood our requirements and came up with lots of creative solutions and options on how to best use the space. He managed the process of obtaining planning permission and then produced detailed technical drawings and calculations for us to give to contractors. He was always clear and upfront about costs so there were no unexpected surprises. He has always been happy to respond to any queries or questions we’ve had throughout the process. We’ve not yet started the build but I’m confident that when we do it will transform our home. Thoroughly recommended

We engaged the General Architecture Company to design the remodelling and extension of our house in a sensitive location in the centre of Bournville. From the initial meeting to discuss our plans, we were impressed by Matt and Kevin’s positive approach, taking on our ideas and brief and supplementing with their experience. It was also most useful that they itemised all expected fees from initial survey through to detailed design both to themselves and third parties, so that we could plan ahead. Following the initial survey, we were provided with three distinct options. Matt took the time to run through each of the options and the associated disadvantages and advantages of each, was always available to discuss our queries and did not pressure us into a decision. He was very accommodating of my many comments, queries and general ‘hands on’ approach. We opted to proceed with one of the options for submission for planning, for which Matt worked up drawings and an accompanying supporting heritage statement. Owing to our house being in a very sensitive location, there was a lot of discussion with the local planning authority. However, Matt managed this on our behalf, providing updates during the process. Following acceptance by the local planning authority, Matt developed detailed drawings for building control submission, which were accepted without comment. The detail shown on the drawings was excellent and made for the pricing and construction of the project being much more simple. Overall, we were very happy with the service provided by GAC, so much so that we have just booked for the survey for them to help with our planned loft conversion.

Kevin was super helpful in making sure we picked the right design for our potential extension. He also helped us achieve planning permission, which was actually a little surprising as we thought it might face some challenges. They clearly know there way around the planning system, and the design Kevin developed suited what we needed perfectly. Highly recommended....

We used the General Architecture Company for our recent kitchen remodel and ground floor extension in Edgbaston. From the moment we first met Kevin, we knew we'd made a great choice. He was positive about the project, listened to what we wanted and came up with some excellent ideas that we discussed, adjusted and eventually came up with a wonderful design! We loved how the company provided a clear breakdown of their costs right at the beginning, including planning and other fees, whether payable to them or not. There were literally no surprises and we were able to progress at our own pace without ever feeling rushed. Also, the quality and detail in their architectural drawings was excellent, leaving little uncertainty for the build, which allowed the builder to know exactly what to do and allowed us to check things were as we expected. Overall we've ended up with the perfect result and we couldn't be happier. Thanks to Kevin and the team for helping make our first project of this type such a success!

Really happy to have Kevin at GAC design an amazing kitchen/living side return extension for my Moseley terrace. From the start I had confidence he knew what was possible for my home and made great suggestions. He also dealt with my (many) questions as the design developed. Planning permission went through successfully. It was very smooth, even though I’m in a conservation area, because Kevin was very clear about how to meet requirements. Very excited now to see it become reality!

We had been thinking about replacing an existing cramped extension on our terraced house in Bournville for some time. At our first consultation Kevin spent a good amount of time with us discussing our requirements and explaining how GAC would proceed with drawings, planning application and the fees. It was a good friendly and open discussion. He helped us to clarify our requirements and proposed some good ideas to maximize the light and feeling of space. There was good communication throughout the process and we are very pleased with the end result. Before we had a limited view of our garden. Now we have a lovely garden room which connects us to the outside and is our go to space for relaxing.

I would really recommend the General Architecture Company for someone looking for professional, friendly and personal architectural service. Kevin explained to us from the outset what the process would be, what they would be able to offer and provided a very clear structure for the pricing of the work they did for us. We had visits to our house in South Birmingham as well as online meetings, and at all times we had every opportunity to ask questions and be reassured about what would happen and when. It was always easy to contact Kevin and the completed drawings were always given to by the exact date we had been to expect them. What was particularly helpful was the way that we were provided with a range of different options to choose from. It genuinely was a bespoke service, and we really got the feeling that the company cared a lot about the service they were providing and the quality of the work that they produced. Thank you!

Excellent service from Kevin and the team. We had three architect to view our house and discuss the extension we wanted . The General Architecture Company & Kevin in particular were by far the best! He was meticulous in ensuring he took in to account our specific requirements and particularly how we would be using each space in the house. He demonstrated excellent knowledge & experience especially in ensuring we complied with both Bournville Trust & the Council requirements. He kept in touch throughout the process and answered any queries we had promptly. Our builders found the plans excellent to build from and we love our finished extension. Thanks so much Kevin & the team!

We were considering for a while whether to have an extension and what were the best options and designs -- Matt presented a wider range of options and designs to us, taking us step by step through all the pros and cons. Our particular choice of design ended up looking fantastic, much better than we had ever hoped for. We are so pleased with the work, especially with the proportions of our new kitchen/lounge and the way the light interacts with the space. Our ground floor has now become very functional and pleasant and we were able to use efficiently many spaces that were previously dead. It is just perfect. As is the joining of the extension to the old house: it looks like the house was originally designed to be this way. Again Matt was able to help us all the way, our planning application was smoothly accepted, and he saw many intricate details that were very helpful during the building process. We thoroughly recommend The General Architecture Company. Our extension is in Bournville.

We can't sing Matt's praises more highly for the work he did on our kitchen extension. He was immensely patient and creative, guiding us through multiple options until we found the right solution - one that we would never have thought of ourselves and that makes us happy every day. We really appreciated the way he balanced our need for a very cost effective solution, whilst building in lovely details that give the space a wow factor which everyone comments on. We have gone from a dark house, with a small kitchen, no outlook and really grotty yard, to a stunning, light filled space that brings the garden right inside and functions brilliantly as a practical family home. We love it!

We were absolutely thrilled with Kevin’s service from start to finish. He came round to discuss our plans for a downstairs kitchen/diner extension, and he immediately put me at ease despite my inexperience. It was a very easy choice for us to go with GAC plus they had been recommended from a colleague who they had completed plans for. This is our first experience with an architect, and we have been delighted both with Kevin’s inclusive manner and the excellent technical drawings. All the builders we showed them to said they were the best they had seen and be everything they would need because they are so detailed. We are yet to start the build as we were recently let down by a builder but we are hopefully back on track with a new company and I am confident that Kevin will continue to support me all the way through til the end. I highly recommend GAC and have recommended them to two other friends already!

We interviewed three architects to find one for our kitchen remodel and extension, and it wasn't difficult to choose GAC. Our visit from Kevin encouraged us because of his openness and his on-the-spot doodles, and the designs showed how much he understood our aesthetic. This is our first experience with an architect, and he has always kept us calm - we get the feeling he's dealt with a huge range of situations, and knows how to manage them. When we contacted builders about working on our project, we found that those who knew GAC said that they loved working with GAC technical drawings because they are so detailed and well done.

We were really impressed with the service we received from GAC. We carried out our due diligence by meeting with 4 different architecture companies and GAC were by far the best. Matt was attentive to what we wanted to create and most importantly listened to our ideas and how we wanted to use the space. We live in Edgbaston and were embarking upon a large scale building project. Taking our existing home and creating a 5 double bedroom home complete with gym and large open plan family living space. Matt gave us options and ideas of how we could make our space work for us and our two children. We completed our 14 month project in May 2019 and were absolutely delighted with the results. The planning process is absolutely critical to having a successful build project and GAC's design and planning process was excellent. They provided detailed plans - re-iterated for us a number of times, provided us with a fab 3d fly-through of what we would have at the end which really helped to visualise. End to end it was a pretty seamless experience, so much so that we have recommended GAC numerous times to friends locally, who have been equally as impressed. Great company!

The General Architecture Company have been a blessing for us, having had a difficult experience with a previous architect for the renovation and extension of our home in Sutton Coldfield. Kevin and Matt have been excellent throughout this entire process, from the initial site visit to understanding our needs and wishes, to submission for planning. We particularly liked the questions that were asked of us at the initial visit, provoking lots of thoughts and conversation. Kevin then sent us through multiple options for the home, which offered us again the opportunity to fine tune what we were looking for. Each stage of this relationship has been supportive and collaborative, and we couldn’t ask for much more. they have been available and responsive throughout this journey, offering honest advice to help us make choices throughout. We had a particularly lengthy and difficult journey with planning, which Kevin guided us through each step of the way. Whilst, also working proactively with the local planning authority and representing us at a planning committee; with a high level of commitment and passion for the project. Thank you both for designing our dream home…. looking forward to starting the build.

We loved working with Kevin. He took on board our vision and came up with creative and practical ideas to make the best use of our limited space. We really appreciated his enthusiasm, creativity, and hard work and willingness to answer questions - no question was too silly! We absolutely love being in our new family space which is light, airy and makes our house feel like it's a completely different home! Highly, highly recommended.

Kevin has been utterly fantastic from start to finish. He designed for us a side return extension which has transformed our dark dingy kitchen and horrific conservatory into a huge, and with the pitched roof, almost church-like space. He backed us all the way when the planning dept first rejected our plans and handled the situation calmly and precisely throughout. The extended space has totally changed how we use our home. The children love it and spend more time in the garden, drawing at the kitchen island and wrestling on the sofa instead of watching TV! Most importantly though, when I wake up in the morning and walk downstairs to make my first coffee of the day the space just makes me smile... and that is the gift that keeps on giving. Thank you!

Architects should I, good question some of us think is it worth it, we all have been there. The extra cost on top of your building work and so on. So my experience with General Architecture Company Matt and Kevin came to see us and guess what they listened to what we thought, expanded on it and the initial consultation was free Professional, friendly, understanding. Went away and then WOW !! The design was unbelievable, throughout the process they were on hand to explain and advise with us and the builder We are absolutely thrilled, we would would of given 6 stars if we could. We can not believe this is our home

Ground Floor Home Extension. Kevin offered us an excellent service from start to finish. He is very knowledgeable, a straight talker who listens carefully and gives honest advice. Kevin worked with us on the plans and drawings, he was very generous with his time and made various suggestions at all stages. Questions were answered and information supplied quickly. Final drawings which included a 3D model were extremely impressive! Planning went through smoothly, our builder and his team had no problems interpreting the plans. We are extremely pleased with the whole project, Kevin helped us to create great interconnecting spaces, all of which are intelligently designed to work in harmony with each other. A perfect job, well done! We totally recommend The General Architecture Company they are very approachable, professional and trustworthy."

“Really pleased with the excellent design GAC created to replace and extend the old kitchen and create a new side extension at the property. They have provided a first-rate service from the initial visit to the timely delivery of the excellent final drawings and specifications. Throughout the process Kevin and Matt were a pleasure to deal with, understanding the requirements, making recommendations, suggesting options and being generous with their time and help and guidance. Would have no hesitation in highly recommending their services.

Great local architects, would highly recommend to anyone. Kevin listened to what we wanted and came up with solutions and ideas that we couldn't have. We were given different options to consider and helpful advice throughout the process. The planning and building regs approvals went very smoothly and Kevin actively contacted them when queries came up. Kevin also helped with finding a builder and supporting when issues came up on site. The extension will transform our Victorian terrace, really worth every penny!

My wife and I instructed the General Architecture Company to design a new kitchen extension to our end terrace property in Harborne. From the initial visit through to planning and into build we couldn’t be happier with the quality of service we have had to date from Kevin and the General Architecture Company. Highly knowledgeable with a real eye for design detail, Kevin took the time to understand what we were looking to achieve with the property and over a number of weeks came up with a design that will give our home a real wow factor once the building is complete. Like any major renovation there will always be the odd bump in the road, whether it be at the planning stage or during build where unexpected problems arise. At all times Kevin was on hand to support which was something that my wife and I really valued. Always on the end of the phone to offer guidance / reassurance or available to come on site to work through problems at short notice. One issue resulted in a re-design of footings and drainage to overcome what was real threat to the overall building design. All of which was completed over the course of an afternoon which minimised delay and kept the project on track. First class customer service from a company that puts you at the heart of everything that they do. I wouldn’t have any hesitation in recommending the General Architecture Company

GAC were really great with the planning application process. They made everything super easy and were really helpful. Drawings looks great and can't wait to see what the final product looks like!

Kevin and the team were supportive and helpful throughout both the planning and build stages of our extension. I would happily recommend.

We were really delighted with the designs from the General Architecture company for remodeling our Edwardian house. Kevin and his colleague really listened to our needs and came up with a design that was in keeping with the age of the property that maintained original features, whilst incorporating our needs for fish tanks, bike storage, and light! The design also allowed completion in stages to minimise disruption for family life. Kevin was able to answer queries promptly and help with all aspects of the planning process. Highly recommended."