A good extension does more than add floor space. It makes the whole house work better. We design and draw extensions for homeowners across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Dorset, from the first measured survey through planning drawings to Building Regulations.
We draw single-storey rear extensions for bigger kitchens and family rooms, side and wraparound extensions, and two-storey extensions that add bedrooms or bathrooms.
The design starts with the house you have: how you move through it, where the openings go, the proportions of each room and how the extension meets the garden. Planning shapes it too. Scale, height, materials, boundaries and the effect on neighbours all affect what the council is likely to accept.
Most extension projects start with a measured survey, which gives us the existing floor plans and elevations. Proposed plans and elevations then show the new layout and how the house will look. Depending on the scheme, you may also need roof plans, sections and a site plan.
For Building Regulations the drawings get more technical and add construction information. A structural engineer usually designs the structural openings and beams, and we coordinate their details with our drawings.
From the first conversation to the council's decision.
Tell us about the property and what you want to do. We confirm which drawings you need and send a fixed-price quote.
We visit and measure the parts of the property the drawings need to show.
We draw the existing building, then develop the proposed design with you until you are happy with it.
If we act as your agent, we submit the application and answer the council's drawing queries while it is decided.
A selection of drawings from recent projects.
Some extensions can go ahead under permitted development, as long as the house and the design meet its limits and conditions. Others need a householder planning application, so establish the right route before work starts. If your extension looks like permitted development and you want it confirmed formally, apply for a Lawful Development Certificate. You may still need Building Regulations approval when you don't need planning permission.
We combine design engineering knowledge with hands-on building experience, so our drawings are clear and buildable. When your project needs structural, energy, drainage, heritage, ecology or other specialist advice, we tell you, so you can appoint the right consultant.
5.0 from 21 Google reviews
Ashley completed drawings for our Annexe, he was very helpful and knowledgeable and offered us advice about how best to complete our project. As we wanted to do as much work ourselves having Ashley to ask questions was invaluable and he answered any queries we had promptly. We would definitely recommend Ashley's services.
Jamie Walker
Google review, September 2026
Excellent service from start to finish. It couldn't have been simpler. Ashley came out, viewed the site, drew up plans for our approval, submitted the application and dealt with any queries from the planning officer. Quick, accurate, efficient and stress free!
Chris. B
Google review, July 2026
We used Dorset Plans for our extension and Ashley was great throughout. He handled everything from the initial survey and drawings right through to planning permission sign-off, which made the whole process much simpler than we'd expected. Professional and easy to deal with, and always responsive when we had questions. The plans were detailed and delivered promptly, and it was reassuring to have someone manage the council side of things on our behalf. Good value for the service provided — we'd use him again without hesitation.
Matthew Morgan
Google review, May 2026
Ashley at Dorset Plans Ltd was excellent from start to finish. He carried out a measured survey and prepared our planning drawings for a garden annexe, handling the entire application process professionally and efficiently. Communication was clear throughout and he dealt directly with the council on our behalf, which made everything stress-free. Highly recommended :)
Ash Parsons
Google review, February 2026
I have worked with Ashley at Dorset Plans to produce planning drawings on varying projects. Each time our requirements have been easily understood and drawings produced quickly with meticulous attention to detail and more importantly complied fully with local authority guidelines. Will definitely be using again and recommend.
Harjit Johal
Google review, October 2025
Ash at Dorset Plans Ltd was a pleasure to work with. They provided detailed and accurate floor plans for our house and extension, covering both planning and building regulations. Friendly, knowledgeable, and with a great eye for detail, they made the whole process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended!
Steve Willington
Google review, October 2025
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Contact us on 07400 722994 or info@dorsetplans.com.
Tell us about the property and the work you have in mind. We'll confirm what you need and send a fixed-price quote.
Existing and proposed drawings for planning applications, with submission to the council.
Find out moreTechnical drawings that show Building Control how your extension, loft or alteration will be built.
Find out moreMeasured building surveys and CAD floor plans of existing homes and commercial buildings.
Find out more