Skills
- 3D Architectural Models
- Architectural Drawings
- Architectural Technician
- Planning Consultants
- Planning / Design
- Technical Drawing
Customer Reviews
Write a review10 /10
Based on 3 reviews over the past 12 months
Quality of work
10
Reliability
10
Communication
10
Reviews (60)
10 Architectural Drawings
Posted 03 July
Reliable source of advice and reassurance
Chris was great and proactive throughout. Happy to discuss all aspects in person - coming to the house when convenient - and on email and whatsapp. Made amendments when needed and was helpful for the project as a whole. Would definitely recommend.Verified reviewerJob location: BH910 Architectural Services
Posted 19 March
Great and very helpful architect
Chris is a really nice guy and has been very helpful with our extension plans. Lots of discussions and a few changes along the way, nothing too much trouble. Would definitely recommend him for any architectural work you need.Job location: BH610 Architectural Services
Posted 03 February
Great Service!
Chris was extremely professional and supportive throughout our design and planning process. The communication and availability was exceptional with all the steps and costs explained clearly.Verified reviewerJob location: BH1610 Planning / Design
Posted 07 April 2025
Great architect, very helpful and reliable
Chris has been an outstanding architect throughout my project. He produced all the technical drawings, which were exceptionally detailed and easy to understand. Whenever I had questions, whether about the drawings or construction advice, Chris was always available and eager to help. His dedication and expertise have been so impressive that I’ve engaged him for my next project, where he’s handling the design, planning permissions, and more. I highly recommend Chris to anyone seeking a skilled and reliable architect.Verified reviewerJob location: SO1410 Architectural Services
Posted 04 October 2024
Plans for new single storey extension
Great service received from Chris, appointments kept and on time and drawings received quickly. We had a couple of options and made some suggestions which were welcomed by Chris. Looking forward to receiving planning permission soon.Verified reviewerJob location: SO1610 Architectural Drawings
Posted 14 August 2024
Extension Plans
An excellent experience from start to finish. Prompt, excellent communication, 5 stars.Verified reviewerJob location: BH25
Photos
Company Info
Owner
Mr Christopher Van Essen
Ltd Company
7 years on Checkatrade
VAT Registered
Yes: 443610811
60 verified reviews. 10/10 across seven years on Checkatrade. A track record built entirely on the quality of the work — and when it comes to architectural design, planning and technical delivery on the South Coast, that record speaks for itself.
Led personally by Christopher Van Essen — Architectural Technologist with 25 years in construction and 20 years in BIM and technical design — we handle everything from your first idea through to planning permission and building regulations. You deal directly with Chris throughout. No juniors, no handoffs.
We know starting a project feels daunting. Our job is to make it feel straightforward. We come to you, listen carefully, explain every step clearly, and stay available throughout — whether that's a call, an email, or a WhatsApp.
- Residential services include:
Extensions and alterations - Loft conversions
- Garage conversions
- New build homes
- Garden rooms and annexes
- Planning permission applications
- Permitted Development advice
- Building regulations drawings
- Feasibility studies
- 3D drawings and visualisations
- Listed building applications
- Interior remodelling and space planning
Beyond residential, Studio Essen works with developers, small businesses and contractors on commercial projects — including Design & Build technical packages, planning submissions, BIM coordination and project delivery.
Whatever the scale or sector, the same principle applies — personal service, technical depth, and no unnecessary stress.
Based in Christchurch, serving Bournemouth, Poole, Hampshire, Dorset and the wider South Coast.
Get in touch for a no-obligation conversation about your project.
This trade passed up to 12 Checkatrade vetting checks
Member since July 2019
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