Frequently Asked Questions

Mass&many is a boutique architectural consultancy. We are a group of architectural consultants, and designers who work closely with registered architects in the UK to achieve the best balance between compliance and creativity.

The director has come from a Chinese Canadian background with degree-education from Canada and Japan.

Do you "know" anyone from the council which would facilitate the decisions of a project?

From experience in past projects, we have liaised with multiple planning officers, resulting in approved applications.

Were the applications approved through diligence between both our efforts and the planning officers' professional considerations? - Yes.

Were the applications approved simply because we "knew" the officer? - No.

What happens if my application is refused?

Planning decisions are determined by the local authority and cannot be guaranteed. If an application is refused, we review the decision and advise on the most appropriate next steps, which may include design revisions, resubmission, or appeal in line with the agreed appointment terms.

Can you help us prevent planning refusal?

We aim to minimise refusal risk through early feasibility assessment, policy-led design, and ongoing dialogue with planning authorities where appropriate. While approval cannot be guaranteed, the process is structured to align proposals with planning policy from the outset.

I want a specific design feature, such as a large round window, can you help us get it approved?

We can assess the likelihood of a proposed feature being approved within the context of its surrounding area and provide you with a clear, objective opinion. We support this by accurately illustrating the design so it is clearly communicated to the Planning Officer. In addition, we prepare robust planning justifications to strengthen the case for its inclusion. However, the final decision ultimately rests with the Planning Officer, who exercises discretion in determining the outcome.

What is your design process from start to finish??

We follow a structured process: briefing and survey, concept design, planning submission, technical design, and construction coordination through to completion.

How long does the design stage take?

Every project is different, but we understand the need to anticipate scope and production progress through prior planning. We would pre-communicate a designers' programme, and aim to reach citical milestones via 2-week increments.

Do I need to have a clear idea before contacting you?

No. Most clients come to us with a rough idea, not a fully formed brief. Our role is to translate your objectives into a clear spatial strategy, balancing design intent, budget, and planning constraints.

Do you offer an initial consultation?

Yes. We offer an initial consultation to understand your project, assess feasibility, and outline the next steps. This ensures you get practical direction immediately, rather than generic advice.

Can you begin work immediately after our reservation?

Upon appointment, we shall confirm the availabilities of our diary, and should we have availability in the near future, we would endeavour to provide you with the availabilities most suitable to you.

How do you charge for your service?

Upon appointment, we shall confirm the availabilities of our diary, and should we have availability in the near future, we would endeavour to provide you with the availabilities most suitable to you.

How many design revisions do I get?

Project dependent. Typically, each main option is determined after thorough communication. However, 1 alternative option is typically prepared.

Can you recommend reliable contractors?

Yes, we can recommend experienced contractors we have previously worked with to provide quotations at tender stage (RIBA Stage 4).

Can I bring my own contractors?

Yes, you are welcome to appoint your own contractors. We can coordinate with them to ensure alignment with the design intent and project requirements.

Do you manage the construction phase?

We do contract administration, site visits, snagging, subject to other agreement.

What happens if problems arise during construction?

We address issues directly through coordinated design responses, working with contractors and consultants to resolve problems efficiently while maintaining design intent and compliance.

Do you provide detailed construction drawings?

Yes. We produce coordinated technical drawings suitable for pricing, Building Control approval, and construction on site.

What is “RIBA Stage 4” and why does it matter?

RIBA Stage 4 is the technical design phase where the project is fully detailed for construction. It matters because it translates design intent into coordinated, buildable information used for Building Control approval, pricing, and on-site execution.

How often will I receive updates?

We provide updates at key stages of the project, with additional communication as required to maintain clarity and progress throughout.

How often will I receive updates?

Updates are provided at key project milestones, with additional communication as needed to maintain clarity throughout each stage.

Who will I be speaking to during the project?

You will work directly with the designer leading your project, ensuring clear communication and continuity from start to completion.

Can I be involved in the design process?

Yes. The process is collaborative—we guide the design, but key decisions are shaped with your input at each stage.

Are you insured??

Yes, we are reasonably covered Professional Indemnity Insurance.

Are your drawings compliant with UK building regulations?

Yes. All drawings are developed to meet current UK Building Regulations and are coordinated with consultants where required to ensure full compliance.

Do you handle Building Control submissions?

Yes. We prepare and coordinate all drawings and information required for Building Control approval, managing the process to ensure compliance and a smooth progression to construction.

What is CDM and do I need to worry about it?

CDM (Construction Design and Management Regulations) governs health and safety in construction. As a client, your duties are straightforward—we guide you through compliance and coordinate the required roles so the process remains controlled and low-risk.

Can you work remotely or do you need site visits?

We work both remotely and on-site. Early stages can be handled efficiently off-site, while key milestones and construction phases typically require site visits to ensure accuracy and quality.

What areas do you cover?

London, UK-wide,

Do you work on small projects?

yes, for smaller areas, we produce highly refined usability joinery designs that put ergonomics and lifestyle in the center of the project.