Luxury is not gold or marble. It is a door that closes without sound. A room that holds its temperature. A surface that rewards touch.
It asks nothing of you. No explanation, no performance. A presence. A quiet confidence. That is the only luxury worth building.
Story
Experience meets a fresh beginning.
Bringing together two decades of architectural practice across the UK and a design sensibility shaped by the rich built heritage of the Subcontinent, our studio was born from a simple belief: that great architecture listens before it speaks.
Our founder has spent more than twenty years working across some of the most demanding and rewarding projects the UK has to offer, quietly building the knowledge, relationships, and craft that only time can teach. This studio is the culmination of that journey. A new beginning, yes, but one rooted in deep experience, cultural richness, and an unwavering commitment to design that endures.
Two decades of UK practice
The studio
Studio
Where every idea takes shape.
Our studio is where curiosity meets commitment, where sketches become buildings and client conversations shape every decision. Architects, designers, and creative thinkers collaborate here, united by a shared obsession with getting things right.
Every project begins on the drawing board and ends with care, precision, and genuine passion for the craft.
CIAT Chartered Practice
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Chartered Architectural Technologist
Qualified in the science and technology of building design
Registered in England & Wales
Company No. 17178531
Services
We bring the design expertise.
From first sketch to technical drawing, for homes, commercial spaces, and mixed-use developments. Luxury planning, precise documentation, and support through every stage. Our services cover everything you need — no gaps, no guesswork, just results that feel effortless and right.
01
Early Stage & Feasibility Studies
Site assessments and constraints, with honest advice on the right route to consent.
02
Planning Applications
Prepared, submitted, and managed with the local authority on your behalf.
03
Interior Design & Furniture
Spatial layout, finishes, and furniture planning for how a space feels.
04
Building Regulations Drawings
Detailed technical drawings and specifications for building control.
05
Tender + Contractor Coordination
Pricing, appointment, and coordination of your build team.
06
On-Site Construction Support
Site visits and contract administration through to handover.
No space is unsolvable
We translate ambition into a blueprint.
Loft conversions, house extensions, kitchen and garage transformations, single and double storey additions. Each is a precise, considered response to how you actually live. No awkward joins, no afterthought volumes. Every dimension argued for, every junction detailed. Luxury means the extension feels original, not added.
Getting to know you and your project. We start with a conversation — your goals, your budget, your priorities. We visit the site, identify any constraints such as planning or access, and give you honest, informed advice on what’s achievable.
OutcomeA well-defined project brief and feasibility outline, grounded in realistic expectations.
Stage 2
Concept Design
We translate your aspirations into early sketches, layout options, and 3D visuals, exploring how your home could look and feel. Every idea is tested against your brief, your site, and your vision.
OutcomeA compelling design concept that begins to capture the character of your future home.
Stage 3
Spatial Coordination
We refine the preferred design in greater detail — selecting materials, finalising layouts, and producing drawings for a planning application. We manage the process on your behalf, liaising directly with the local authority.
OutcomeA coordinated design package with a planning application submitted where required.
Stage 4
Building Regulations & Technical Design
With planning secured, we produce detailed technical drawings and specifications. Working alongside structural engineers, consultants, and specialist suppliers, we ensure everything is construction-ready and fully compliant with Building Regulations.
OutcomeA comprehensive set of construction information, ready for pricing and building.
Stage 5
Construction
We help you appoint a trusted contractor and stay actively involved throughout the build — attending site visits, responding to queries, and resolving issues as they arise. Where required, we act as Contract Administrator, overseeing the contract and quality of work.
OutcomeA well-managed build with expert support at every step.
Stage 6–7
Handover & In-Use
At practical completion, we carry out a thorough final inspection and ensure all snags are addressed. We remain available for ongoing support beyond handover — because we care as much about how your home is lived in as how it looks.
OutcomeA home ready to be lived in, with ongoing care and support as you settle in.
Ready to start your project?
Every great building begins with a conversation. Whether you have a clear vision or a spark of an idea, we guide you from first sketch to finished door. Our process is transparent, collaborative, and built around you. Let’s create something extraordinary together. Reach out today and let’s begin.
A curated selection of our architectural work across Birmingham and the West Midlands — reflecting our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and transforming spaces into inspiring, functional environments.
Scroll to explore
01
Belgrave Road
Residential — Birmingham, West Midlands
02
Colmore Row
Commercial — Birmingham, West Midlands
03
John Bright Street
Interior Design — Birmingham, West Midlands
04
High Street
Extension — Birmingham, West Midlands
05
Edmund Street
New Build — Birmingham, West Midlands
Leadership
Sheikh Muhammad Akmal
Founder & Chartered Architectural Technologist
Led by Sheikh Muhammad Akmal, the practice supports residential and commercial clients with planning-led design, clear spatial thinking, and technical information that helps projects move forward with confidence.
“Great architecture listens before it speaks.”
CIAT Chartered Practice — Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Chartered Architectural Technologist — Qualified in the science and technology of building design
Registered in England & Wales — Company No. 17178531
FAQ
What you should know before your project gets started.
Do I need planning permission for my project?
Not always. Some projects fall under Permitted Development rights, meaning no formal planning permission is required. However, this depends on the size, location and type of work involved. Where permission is needed, we handle the entire process on your behalf, from preparing and submitting drawings to liaising with the local planning authority, keeping you informed every step of the way.
How long does a planning application take?
Most standard planning applications take 8 to 13 weeks for a decision from the local authority. More complex applications can take longer. We manage the entire submission process and keep you updated throughout, so there are no surprises along the way.
How long will my project take from start to finish?
Every project is different, but as a general guide, a typical residential extension or loft conversion in the UK takes between 12 and 18 months from your first consultation to completion on site. This includes the design stages, planning application, technical design, and construction. A new build home or larger project can take anywhere from 18 months to three years or more, depending on scale and complexity. Planning alone can take between 8 and 13 weeks for a standard householder application, and building regulations approval adds further time before construction can begin. Unforeseen site conditions, contractor availability, and material lead times can also affect the overall programme. We map out a realistic timeline with you at the very start, so you always know where you are in the process and what is coming next.
What does a Chartered Architectural Technologist do?
A Chartered Architectural Technologist specialises in the science and technology behind building design. They produce detailed technical drawings, specifications and documentation needed to construct a building safely and efficiently. They work alongside architects and engineers to ensure your project is buildable, compliant and delivered to the highest standard. Zaman Archihomes Ltd is a CIAT Chartered Practice of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.
How much do you charge?
Our fees vary depending on the size, complexity and scope of your project. We offer transparent, competitive pricing and will provide a clear fee proposal before any work begins. Get in touch for a free initial consultation and we will put together a tailored quote for you.
Which RIBA stages do I need for my project?
The RIBA Plan of Work has seven stages from strategic definition through to use. Most residential projects require stages 1 to 5, covering initial briefing, concept design, planning, technical design and construction. We will advise which stages are relevant to your project and tailor our service accordingly.
What happens if my planning application is refused?
A refusal is not the end of the road. We will review the reasons given by the council, advise on the best course of action and either revise and resubmit the application or lodge a formal appeal on your behalf. Many refused applications are ultimately approved with the right approach.
Where are you based and what areas do you cover?
We are based in London and proudly serve clients across Birmingham, Manchester, and the surrounding areas. We also take on projects throughout the wider UK depending on scope and requirements, so feel free to get in touch to discuss your location.
Include the property location, the type of project, what stage it is currently at, and whether you need planning drawings, design advice, or a more complete package.
