ABC Architecture

ABC is owned by Steven White and Fraser Sheerin. We aim to create a simplified process to architecture and construction. A professional, flexible and affordable service with a depth of knowledge and experience is what we offer.

ABC Architecture is a UK-based architectural practice that provides a range of services to clients in both the public and private sectors. At the core of our business is a team of experienced architectural technologists with a combined total of over 35 years in the industry. This brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each project we undertake, and our commitment to delivering high-quality results has earned them a reputation as one of the leading architectural firms in Edinburgh.

Have a look below to see who we are and what we can do.

Fraser

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Fraser is an Architectural Technologist with over 20 years working in architecture and the construction industry. 12 years were with an East Lothian…
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Steven

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Steven is an Architectural Technologist with over a 15 years’ worth of experience having previously worked in two busy architectural practices and working on various project types…
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Enrico

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Enrico is an Architectural Technician, who graduated as an Architect at Bologna University and a Masters at Napier University…
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What you can expect from us

The team at ABC Architecture offers a wide range of services to our clients, including design, planning, and contract administration. We work closely with clients to ensure that our vision for a project is realised, and we are able to provide expert advice and guidance throughout the entire process. This includes navigating complex planning regulations, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget, and providing ongoing support and maintenance once a project is completed.

One of the key strengths of ABC Architecture is our ability to combine our extensive technical knowledge with a creative approach to design. This means that we are able to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of our clients, while also taking into account the broader social, economic, and environmental context of each project. We are committed to using the latest technologies and materials to create buildings and projects that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and visually striking.

ABC Architecture has worked on a wide range of projects across a variety of sectors, including residential, commercial, and light industrial. We have experience in both new builds and refurbishments, and we are able to adapt our approach to suit the unique requirements of each project. Our portfolio includes everything from large-scale developments to smaller, more bespoke projects, and we have a proven track record of delivering results that exceed our clients’ expectations.

Overall, ABC Architecture is a highly professional and experienced architectural practice that has established itself as a leader in the market segment. Our team of architectural technologists brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each project, and we are able to provide a comprehensive range of services to our clients. With a strong focus on creativity, sustainability, and innovation, ABC Architecture is well positioned to continue to deliver high-quality results for our clients for years to come.

Recent Projects

Living Area and Utility Extension with Double Patio Doors
Living Area and Utility Extension with Double Patio Doors
Client: Private Owner Location: Haddington East Lothian Garden room extension providing a link between the kitchen and the garden and utilising an unused area between the house and boundary. Rooflights over the sitting area fill the room with light and large format glazed doors to the rear provide a view to the garden. A purpose [...]
Open Plan Kitchen Diner Extension
Open Plan Kitchen Diner Extension
Client: Private Owner Location: Newhaven, Edinburgh Alterations and extension to ground floor flat Newhaven, Edinburgh. Demonstrating how even a small extension can transform a space. Structural alterations to open up the existing kitchen and dining space to form open plan kitchen/diner. Large format aluminium bi-fold doors with access to the garden. Single ply membrane roof [...]
Timeless Timber Cladding
Timeless Timber Cladding
Client: Private Owner Location: Edinburgh Reconfiguration of property, formation of open plan dining/kitchen area and lower living room with direct patio access to garden, large format picture window with views to the garden. It boasts a classic charm with its timeless timber cladding, complemented by elegant grey doors, windows, and a roof, adding to its [...]
Garden Sunroom Extension
Garden Sunroom Extension
Client: Private Owner Location: Dunbar The proposals retained thermal separating doors between the new sunroom and the main house. This allowed for extensive glazing to be introduced. Large feature picture window to the gable. Velux windows to the roof pitch and large bi-fold doors opening to the new patio area. The sunroom ties in style [...]
Contemporary Timber Clad Extension
Contemporary Timber Clad Extension
Client: Private Owner Location: Monkrigg Alterations, renovation and kitchen/dining extension. Modern contemporary timber clad extension integrating with existing stone farmhouse. East facing windows for morning sunshine and south facing patio doors onto patio area. Large format flat roof windows over island and dining areas to bring late afternoon light. See another completed extension project here [...]
Horse Riding Arena and Stable Block
Horse Riding Arena and Stable Block
Client: Private Owner Location: Macbiehill West Lothian Formation of private horse riding arena, erection of bespoke stable block and tack room. See another commercial product under our belt here : https://www.abcarchitecture.co.uk/projects/westgate-galleries/
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    Or just give us a call Mon-Fri 8:30am to 5pm

    Call us on 0131 510 8555

    Alternatively, send us an email on this address

    fraser@abcarchitecture.co.uk

    We have lots of experience.

    With over 25 combined years in the industry we have a highly varied background with broad reach. While we generally work in and around Edinburgh and the Lothians we are happy to travel further afield.

    Residential Alterations and Extensions
    The majority of our work is for private clients who want to improve their homes. We can help you alter, extend, convert and make sense of your living space to maximise your homes potential within your given budget.
    Commercial
    Commercial
    Our experience extends to cafe’s, softplay, single shop units, warehouses, bakeries and zipwire courses. We can turn our hands to most types of commercial work with a highly varied background in smaller scale bespoke commercial design.
    Conversions
    With a background in rural architecture we have experience in conversion of historic rural properties. From conversions of steadings to individual barns and mills our experience and knowledge is pretty comprehensive.
    New Build Housing
    New Build Housing
    Bespoke one off dwellings for private clients or smaller scale scheme developments with varied house types. We can advise on design, layouts and material finishes to meet your requirements and maximise your development returns.
    Agricultural and Equestrian
    Agricultural and Equestrian
    Whether large scale steel portal frame buildings for multi purpose agricultural use or grain storage. We also have wide-reaching experience with indoor and outdoor equestrian riding arenas and stabling.
    Houses of Multiple Occupation
    Highly experienced in the design and specification of HMO’s. We can advise on the most effective way to alter or convert your property to get the best return on your investment. We can ease this daunting process no end.
    Custom Projects
    With a wide and varied experience across a large range of sectors we can provide a service which is catered to your needs. Whether large or small, domestic or commercial we can customise our service to suit your requirements.
    With our upfront and honest attitude you’ve nothing to lose.

    See more testimonials...

    Mapping and Deed Plans
    We are licensed for purchase and use of OS data plans and can produce land mapping or deed plans through measured surveys for when you come to sell your home. These are compliant with land registry requirements so you can be assured when registering your property ownership.

    See more testimonials...

    Contact Us
    Whatever your project is, get in touch here or just below.

    Contact us

    Some Customer Testimonials

    See below for a few recent testimonials

    Steve Smith
    ABC – Steven, were outstanding from start to finish for our house extension project. They were recommended by a mutual acquaintance – what is better than a word of mouth recommendation based on previous experience.

    Our original design required some changes & tweaks – these were easily accomplished and conveyed to our builder. All correspondence with the local authority, planning, certification & approvals were handled by ABC/Builder – a painless experience for ourselves.

    I would have no issue in recommending ABC to provide their services to anyone requiring an architect.

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    Joseph Bryant
    The project was to provide design, drawings and specifications for a small porch extension to a relatively new detached build including liaison with planning dept. The service we received from ABC was of a very high standard. All communication from Steven via email, personal contact, telephone etc was excellent. All costs were clearly identified and were to estimate. Liaison with LA planning dept. and construction company was very effective and helpful.

    I have no hesitation in highly recommending ABC. We are very pleased with our new porch.

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    Westgate Coastal Gallery, Gifts & Cafe
    With the help and expertise of ABC Architecture, we have just completed a major separation and conversion of a commercial premises. Well worth the effort!

    We now have a more streamlined retail unit to suit todays retailing, a 2 bedroom apartment with private courtyard and a self contained office unit to let out.

    ABC Architecture and Steven, guided us through the whole process, from start to finish – from bespoke design to planning applications, building warrants and completion certificates.
    The team were also very resourceful and knowledgeable with regards to sourcing builders and QS services – this meant the whole process was seamless.

    One very happy customer, will definitely use ABC again for any future work. Highly Recommend!

    More Testimonials

    More testimonials

    Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    We often field common questions from customers and people we assist, here are a few that are often asked :

    Can you advise me before I purchase land or a property? →

    We are usually very careful with advising people purchasing land or property as very much subject to getting planning permission. So yes in short we can advise but with caveats depending on planning, warrant and overall cost of works

    How can I find a good builder? →

    Ask your Architectural Tech for recommendations. Reputation and word of mouth are most important. We work with a selection of builders we trust and use regularly and have done for many years. You know the standard of work is good and prices will be reasonable for works undertaken. The cheapest is NOT always the best option

    Should I submit a pre-application to the council? →

    For small scale domestic works it isn’t really required. We can advise on small scale before submission as to what is likely to get permission. For more complex works or multi house developments, larger commercial works etc it can be prudent to submit for preapp advice so you have a comprehensive idea of what’s going to be requested on submission and what is likely to be approved or otherwise. Also. Preapp is all chargeable these days by the council. No free advice anymore.

    Do I need a permit/permission to convert my garage into an office? →

    Building warrant required for the conversion. It depends what the building is and where it is as to whether planning permission is required. If it’s listed it needs listed building consent permission. If conservation area it needs planning permission.

    A home office generally doesn’t need a Change of Use to be obtained as part of the permission but if it’s for a business which has visitors to the premises it does and may not get consent. Might be easier to call and discuss as various situations relative to this query.

    Can you help with interior design services?

    We don’t really directly assist with interior design however we have several close, and trusted, interior design companies that we work with on a regular basis and can provide a direct referral.

    Resource Centre

    The Impact of Bank of England Base Rates on Small Domestic Architecture Projects
    22/05/2024

    The Impact of Bank of England Base Rates on Small Domestic Architecture Projects

    Read more
    The Pillar of Success: Word of Mouth and Reputation in Architectural Design
    24/08/2023

    The Pillar of Success: Word of Mouth and Reputation in Architectural Design

    Read more
    Project Pathways: Early Planning Essentials
    10/07/2023

    Project Pathways: Early Planning Essentials

    Read more
    Top Reasons to Build an Extension
    16/05/2023

    Top Reasons to Build an Extension

    Read more
    10 Things About Your Loft Conversion Project
    17/04/2023

    10 Things About Your Loft Conversion Project

    Read more
    Why Do I Need An Architectural Designer?
    20/05/2021

    Why Do I Need An Architectural Designer?

    Read more
    The Garden Room Extension Guide
    11/03/2021

    The Garden Room Extension Guide

    Read more
    Build A Home Office In Your Garage
    04/02/2021

    Build A Home Office In Your Garage

    Read more

    Project Flow

    Project Flow Detail

    Feasibility

    • Full measured survey of your property
    • Draft existing floor plans, elevations and sections
    • Draft design proposals with options based on your brief
    • Obtain detailed budget costs from a quantity surveyor
    • Initial discussions with planning and building control

    Planning

    • Progress plans from feasibility stage to detailed design drawings
    • Specification of material finishes
    • Liaise with consultants and obtain reports for submission
    • Formal lodgement of planning and/or listed building consent application
    • Liaise with planning through to granting of your planning approval

    Building Warrant

    • Progress planning drawings to a detailed set of working drawings
    • Technical details and specification
    • Obtain quotes and detailed design from a structural engineer
    • Obtain quotes and insulation values from a building services engineer
    • Formal lodgement of building warrant application
    • Liaise with building control through to granting of your building warrant

    Scheduling and Tender

    • Production of a schedule of works by a quantity surveyor
    • Compile and issue tender packages to contractors for pricing
    • Review and report on tender prices received
    • Negotiate the final agreed fixed price tender with nominated contractor
    • Acceptance of final price and arranging the contract between client and contractor

    Site Inspection and Contract Administration

    • Submission of start of works and stage forms to the council
    • Weekly site visits to inspect the works as they progress
    • Checking monthly valuations by the main contractor and issue of certificates for payment
    • Addressing queries and variations in the works
    • Controlling and reporting on costs and timescales as the works progress

    Post Contract and Completion

    • Submission of start of works and stage forms to the council
    • Weekly site visits to inspect the works as they progress
    • Checking monthly valuations by the main contractor and issue of certificates for payment
    • Addressing queries and variations in the works
    • Controlling and reporting on costs and timescales as the works progress
    We can cater our service to meet your needs and start or stop at any stage you wish. We can provide a part service or a full service from feasibility to completion. Our service can be as flexible as you need it to be with fixed price rates for each stage dependent on the build cost of your project.
    ABC are VAT registered

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      “We worked with Fraser on the design and project management of a major extension to our home. Right from the outset he was interested in our needs and opinions. He completed an innovative design, helped select a contractor and worked tirelessly throughout the project. We would have no hesitation in working with him again and would happily recommend his services.”
      Eric
      A major extension to our home...
      “The drawings were completed exactly as agreed and delivered on time. Professional experience from first contact to lodging the completed plans with City of Edinburgh Building Control. A really good quality experience delivered on time and on budget.”
      Bill
      Delivered on time and on budget
      “We commissioned Fraser to carry out design works for alterations to our house with conversions of our garage. Fraser was easy to deal with, taking our family’s needs into account and coming up with a plan to resolve our issues. The service was professional, efficient and the price was very competitive. I wouldn’t think twice about recommending him and using him in the future.”
      Mr and Mrs C.
      I wouldn't think twice about recommending him and using him in the future
      “ I recently used ABC Architecture on a project to completely refurbish a newly purchased Victorian property in Edinburgh. I found them to be professional , knowledgeable and friendly. ABC worked to my timescale and were helpful at all times , ensuring that the necessary plans were submitted to the local authority . All work produced was to an excellent standard . I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”
      Michelle
      I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them
      “Fraser is a truly nice, personable guy. He takes the worry and stress out of the whole
      process, puts everything in plain English and makes sure you are happy at every stage. He comes thoroughly recommended!”
      P and P, Dunbar
      like many people, were unsure about the whole process. Would we need planning permission? A building warrant? Structural engineer?
      “Steven, just a note to say how we were delighted with the service that you provided regarding our loft conversion. The design and plans were done exactly as required and your follow up service has been second to none. We would have no hesitation recommending you to others in the future.”
      Mr & Mrs Ford, East Lothian
      We would have no hesitation recommending you to others in the future
      “Our build was unconventional and complex, a listed cottage built in the 1750s, set within a conservation area of the market town of Haddington. We wanted to extend it and bring up to and beyond current energy performance standards, to make it a great space to bring up our family in. I have no hesitation in recommending him.”
      Dr & Ms P, Haddington
      Steven White worked tirelessly, to interpret our brief and with the local authority to resolve the technical challenges