20 years' construction insight
Measured surveys for design
Planning and warrant support
We carry out measured architectural surveys to give you the accurate property information needed before design work begins. John Allan Architectural Design works across Edinburgh and Central Scotland, recording room sizes, wall positions, openings and other key details within the first stage of your project. That matters when you're planning an extension, reworking internal space or turning a garage into something far more useful. A proper measured survey helps avoid guesswork, because your existing building needs to be understood before new ideas are drawn onto it. We use the survey information to prepare accurate existing floor plans and drawings that form the basis for design development. From there, we can move your project forward with concept layouts that make practical sense for the way you want to live or work.
What a measured survey is actually for
A measured survey is about recording the building as it stands today, not judging its condition or producing a HomeBuyer style report. We document dimensions, layouts and openings so the design stage starts from reliable information instead of rough sketches or estate agent particulars. That makes a real difference if walls are being moved, new rooms are being added or circulation through the property needs to improve. Our construction background helps us spot the details that matter when existing spaces are being reshaped. Once the survey is complete, we can use that information to develop proposed layouts and drawings for the next stage.
A practical first step before design develops
Good measured information saves time later because design decisions are based on what is really there, not what you hope is there. That is especially useful in older properties where room shapes, wall thicknesses or previous alterations can catch you out. We can also carry the process on after the survey, with John Allan Architectural Design supporting design work, planning applications, building warrants and completion certificate matters where required. In Edinburgh, that joined-up approach gives you one clear route from first measurements to approved plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a measured architectural survey?
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We record the existing dimensions of the property, including room layouts, wall positions, openings and other relevant details needed for design work. We then use that information to prepare accurate existing drawings and floor plans.
Is a measured survey the same as a HomeBuyer or structural survey?
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No, it's completely different. We use a measured architectural survey to record the building's layout and dimensions for design purposes, rather than to assess condition, defects or structural performance.
What kinds of projects need a measured survey?
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Measured surveys are useful for extensions, renovations, garage conversions, wall removals, internal alterations and similar property changes. They provide the reliable starting point needed before we develop proposed designs.