Business Details
39 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design Services in Lowestoft
Established in 1987, I Garrett Building & Design is a family-run architectural and building design consultancy based in Lowestoft, Suffolk. Our practice brings extensive experience across diverse built environments, construction methods, and building types, enabling us to adapt to the evolving construction industry. We prioritise close collaboration with clients to deliver projects we both take pride in, offering expertise from initial concept to building occupation. Our services span feasibility studies, building surveys, planning applications, contract administration, and artist impressions. We specialise in residential extensions, refurbishments, new-build care homes, commercial developments, and industrial projects, including award-winning healthcare facility designs.With over three decades of operational history, we combine deep industry knowledge with tailored solutions for each client and project. Our teams expertise in navigating planning regulations and building codes ensures reliable, compliant outcomes. We maintain a commitment to transparency, client satisfaction, and ethical standards, adapting our working methods to meet client needs while adhering to government guidelines. Our regional focus on Suffolk and surrounding areas supports a nuanced understanding of local planning requirements and community needs. This combination of experience, specialisation, and client-centric approach positions us as trusted partners in architectural design.
Services
Extensions
Refurbishment
New Houses
Care Homes
Commercial Projects
Industrial Developments
Feasibility Studies
Planning Applications
Contract Administration
Artist Impressions
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- Family-run practice with 35+ years of architectural expertise
- Tailored services for residential, commercial, and healthcare sectors
- Award-winning care home and specialist healthcare facility designs
- Comprehensive project management from feasibility to completion
- Deep knowledge of local planning regulations and Suffolks built environment
Associations and certifications
- LABC Awards finalist
Services
Extensions
We design and manage residential extensions, from small rear additions to comprehensive property expansions. Our approach ensures seamless integration with existing structures while meeting modern living requirements. Clients benefit from our 35+ years of experience in navigating planning permissions and building regulations.
Care Homes
Specialist design and renovation of care homes, combining functional layouts with resident comfort. Our award-winning projects reflect deep understanding of healthcare regulations and accessibility standards. We collaborate closely with operators to create safe, future-ready environments.
Commercial Projects
Full-service architectural solutions for commercial developments, including offices, industrial units, and hospitality venues. We deliver cost-effective designs that balance aesthetics with operational efficiency, supported by our expertise in building control compliance.
Feasibility Studies
Comprehensive assessments to evaluate project potential, considering planning constraints, budget parameters, and technical requirements. Our studies provide clear pathways for decision-making, minimising risks before detailed design phases commence.
Planning Applications
End-to-end planning submission services, leveraging our local authority relationships and regional expertise. We prepare detailed documentation to maximise approval chances, addressing design, access, and compliance factors specific to Suffolk and Norfolk.
People
Ian Garrett
Founder
With over 35 years in architectural design, Ian established the practice in 1987. His leadership focuses on client collaboration and quality assurance across residential and commercial projects. He oversees strategic direction while maintaining hands-on involvement in complex schemes.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential extensions, care home design, commercial developments, feasibility studies, and planning applications. Our expertise spans from small renovations to large-scale new builds across Suffolk and Norfolk.
How long has your practice been operating?
Ian Garrett Building Design has been providing architectural services since 1987, offering over 35 years of experience in residential, commercial, and healthcare sectors.
Do you work outside Suffolk?
While based in Lowestoft, we serve projects across East Anglia, including Norfolk, Ipswich, and Great Yarmouth, with occasional commissions further afield for specialist healthcare facilities.
Can you manage projects from concept to completion?
Yes, we offer full project management including feasibility, planning, building regulations, contract administration, and final inspections, ensuring seamless delivery from initial idea to occupied building.
Are you experienced in care home design?
We are award-winning specialists in care home design, with extensive experience creating compliant, resident-focused facilities that meet evolving healthcare standards and operational requirements.
