Business Details
27 Years
experience
Expert Domestic Architectural Design Services in Portsmouth
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-centric approach, ensuring every project aligns with individual needs. We specialise in navigating complex planning applications and building regulations, leveraging long-standing relationships with local authorities to secure positive outcomes. Our in-house structural calculations capability sets us apart, eliminating reliance on third parties for critical project elements. With a focus on residential and commercial projects, including extensions, conversions, and new builds, we deliver tailored solutions from initial consultation to final approval.Our directors bring decades of hands-on construction expertise, ensuring technical precision and innovative design. Client testimonials highlight our professionalism, efficiency, and competitive pricing, reflecting our commitment to transparency and satisfaction. As partners in the LABC national Partner Authority Scheme, we streamline regulatory processes for clients. Our Portsmouth-based team offers free initial consultations, providing clear guidance on costs, timelines, and legal requirements. This combination of experience, accreditation, and client-focused service positions us as trusted advisors in architectural design.
Services
Extensions
Loft Conversions
Structural Calculations
Planning Applications
Building Regulations
New Builds
Basement Conversions
Garage Conversions
Change of Use
Flat Conversions
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer in-house structural calculations for all project sizes
- Our team has over 50 years combined experience in architectural design
- We provide hassle-free LABC Partner Authority Scheme applications
- We deliver free initial consultations with no-obligation project guidance
- Our directors have 40+ years of hands-on construction expertise
Associations and certifications
- LABC Partner Authority Scheme
What people say
Professional and friendly
Prompt service
High quality plans
Competitive pricing
Seamless process
Services
Extensions
We design and manage residential extensions from initial concept to regulatory approval. Our team handles planning applications, building regulations compliance, and structural calculations. Clients receive detailed construction drawings and ongoing support throughout the process.
Structural Calculations
In-house structural calculations for all project types ensure technical precision. We provide detailed reports for building control submissions. Our expertise covers load-bearing elements, foundations, and complex architectural challenges without third-party reliance.
Planning Applications
We act as client agents for planning submissions, managing council communications. Our experience with local authorities improves approval success rates. Services include application preparation, amendment implementation, and progress monitoring.
Building Regulations
Full building control submissions meeting current standards. We prepare compliant drawings and documentation. Our partnership with LABC streamlines approval processes for faster project commencement.
Loft Conversions
We transform loft spaces into functional living areas. Services include feasibility assessments, planning advice, and regulatory compliance. Clients receive detailed designs optimising space while meeting structural safety requirements.
People
Brian Thorns
Director & Building Surveyor
Building Surveyor with expertise in structural problem-solving. Specialises in diagnosing complex construction issues and delivering innovative design solutions with technical accuracy across various building types.
Chris Curnow
Director
Architectural designer with 40 years of hands-on construction experience. Recognised for practical solutions to complex building challenges, combining field expertise with regulatory knowledge.
Rebecca Nash
Director & Architectural Technician
Revit-certified director with 17 years' experience. Progressed from technician to director through technical excellence in architectural design and project management.
Conner Mallen
Architectural Technician
Graduate architectural technologist with seven years' experience. Specialises in planning submissions, Revit modelling, and IT systems management for efficient project delivery.
Jan Ancell
Receptionist & Company Secretary
Longstanding team member managing office operations since company formation. Handles financial administration and serves as the company's primary client contact point.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential and commercial projects including extensions, loft conversions, new builds, and structural calculations with full regulatory compliance.
Do you handle planning applications?
Yes, we act as your agent for planning submissions, managing council communications and amendments to secure project approvals.
Can you assist with building regulations?
We prepare full building control submissions meeting current standards and leverage our LABC partnership for efficient approvals.
What areas do you cover?
We primarily serve Portsmouth, Chichester, Fareham, and surrounding Hampshire areas for architectural design projects.
Do you offer structural calculations in-house?
Yes, we perform all structural calculations internally without third-party involvement, ensuring faster turnaround and technical consistency.
What's your consultation process?
We offer free initial consultations to discuss project ideas, regulatory requirements, and costs with no obligation to proceed.
