New build: house design project

Building a new house is one of the biggest decisions you will make, and almost everything is decided before the first brick is laid: in choosing the right plot, in a design that fits the way you live, and in a project precise enough that the builder doesn't have to improvise.

We handle the whole journey, from the first visit to the plot to the day you are handed the keys.

How we do it

1. Plot study. Before drawing anything we check what the planning rules allow: how much can be built, heights, setbacks, uses, access and services. If you haven't bought yet, even better: it will save you headaches.
2. Outline design. Layout, volume, orientation and a first image of the house, with a cost estimate so we know whether we are on budget. We adjust it with you as many times as needed.
3. Basic design and building permit. New builds need a municipal licence. We draw up the project, submit it and deal with any requests from the town hall.
4. Construction project. Structure, building services, construction details, compliance with the Building Code (Código Técnico), measurements and budget. With it you can ask several builders for prices and compare like with like.
5. Site supervision. We visit the site, deal with the unexpected, check quality and progress payments, and coordinate with the construction manager (arquitecto técnico), the health and safety coordinator and the other professionals the law requires.
6. Completion and first occupancy. We sign the certificate of completion and prepare the declaración responsable for first occupancy so you can connect the utilities and live in your house.

What we need from you

• The deeds or Land Registry extract (nota simple) for the plot and its cadastral reference.
• An idea of what you want: number of bedrooms, how you live, what you like and what you don't.
• A rough budget for the works, even if only approximate.

For the project you will also need a geotechnical survey of the ground (required by the Building Code) and, depending on the plot, a topographical survey. We help you commission them.

Frequently asked questions

Can I build on my plot?

It depends on the land classification and on what the municipality's planning rules say. On urban land it is usually possible, subject to the conditions for the area. On rural (rústico, non-developable) land the conditions are much stricter and sometimes it isn't possible. That is why the first step is always the plot study.

How long does the licence take?

It varies a great deal from one town hall to another. We give you a realistic estimate for yours before we start, and while the licence is being processed we move ahead with the construction project so as not to lose time.

How much are your fees?

They depend on the size of the house and on what you commission (design only, or design and site supervision). After the first visit we send you a written quote setting out what is included and what isn't.

Do you find the builder?

We help you get comparable offers from several builders based on the same project and measurements, and help you understand the differences between them. The decision is yours.