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Clarity Before Commitment
A Feasibility Study is the smartest first step for any homeowner planning an extension, conversion, or internal alteration.
It helps you avoid wasted time and cost by answering the key questions: is your idea achievable, and is it worth pursuing?
You’ll receive clear answers, realistic options, and a professional assessment of what’s possible for your home.
It’s the first step toward clarity before commitment.
What You'll Gain
A Feasibility Study gives you confidence and clarity before proceeding to a Planning application, Building Control submission, or engaging with builders.
You'll understand:
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Whether your ideas may be achievable within Planning and Building Control requirements
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How your home could be adapted to meet your goals
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The practical implications and likely budget considerations of different design options
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The advantages and disadvantages of each approach
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The best route forward, whether to proceed, pause, or rethink
A Feasibility Study is not a construction cost estimate. If you decide to proceed, indicative build costs can often be obtained through budget estimates from builders or by appointing a Quantity Surveyor for professional cost advice.
It's a calm, structured way to make informed decisions before investing further.
Typical Timeframes
Most Feasibility Studies are completed within 2-3 weeks of appointment, depending on the complexity of the project.
The process typically includes:
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Measured survey of the property
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Preparation of existing drawings
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Development and assessment of design options
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Review of Planning and Building Control considerations
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Recommendations on the most appropriate next steps
A written fee proposal will always be provided before any work begins.
Who is a Fesibilty Study For?
A Feasibility Study is ideal for homeowners who:
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Are unsure which type of extension, conversion, or internal alteration best suits their home
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Want to avoid unnecessary costs and design missteps
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Need clarity before committing to a planning application or full construction drawings for Building Control
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Want to understand approvals, constraints, and what’s realistically achievable
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Prefer a professional assessment rather than builder guesswork
If you’re still at the thinking stage, a Feasibility Study is the right place to start.
My Process
1. Initial Enquiry
You outline your goals, ideas, and any issues you’re trying to solve.
2. Measured Survey
I visit your home, record accurate measurements, and prepare existing plans and elevations.
3. Design Options
I develop initial proposals based on your wish list showing what’s realistically achievable.
4. Approvals Review
I assess Planning Permission and Building Control implications.
5. Recommendations
You receive clear guidance on the best way forward — or whether the idea needs rethought.
Request a Feasibility Study
If you’re considering an extension, conversion or internal alteration and want clarity before committing, get in touch.
A Feasibility Study is the most practical way to begin — clear advice first, Planning and Building Control later, builders much later.
You’ll receive measured, professional guidance tailored to your home and goals, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid unnecessary cost or uncertainty.
Why Homeowners Choose GT Building Design
With over 40 years’ experience helping homeowners across Northern Ireland, GT Building Design specialises in thoughtful, compliant and cost‑aware design.
As a Chartered Architectural Technologist, Glenn Thompson MCIAT focuses exclusively on residential design, Planning Permission and Building Control approvals — ensuring your project is technically correct, fully compliant, and ready to build.
Whether you’re planning an extension, loft conversion, garage conversion, or internal alterations, you’ll receive clear guidance and professional drawings tailored to your home and local regulations.
Every project begins with a clear conversation — let’s make your plans compliant, practical, and ready to build.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a Feasibility Study before applying for Planning Permission?
It’s the most sensible place to start. A Feasibility Study confirms what’s achievable, what’s likely to be approved, and whether your idea is the right solution for your home — before you commit to an application.
2. Will you produce drawings as part of the Feasibility Study?
Yes. You’ll receive measured drawings of your existing home and clear design options showing what’s possible. These form the foundation for any future Planning or Building Control applications.
3. How long does a Feasibility Study take?
Most studies are completed within two to three weeks. The measured survey itself typically takes 2–3 hours, followed by the preparation of accurate existing drawings — usually around one full day. Design options are then developed shortly after, so you’ll receive everything promptly and clearly, with each stage explained as it progresses.
4. Can you advise whether Planning Permission is likely to be granted?
Yes. Your study includes a professional assessment of Planning considerations, local policies, and any constraints that may affect your proposal — so you know the risks before applying.
5. Do you work with builders?
No — and that’s a benefit. My advice is independent and focused entirely on what’s best for your home, not what a builder wants to sell. Builders become relevant much later in the process.
6. How much does a Feasibility Study cost?
The cost depends on the size and complexity of the project. Before any work begins, you'll receive a detailed written fee proposal outlining the scope, estimated time required, and associated fee, allowing you to make an informed decision before proceeding.