Renovation
Begin
Two experts. One home. No compromises.
A considered journey, from first sketch to final reveal.
Every Elmbridge project follows the same six-stage programme, not because it is a rigid system, but because experience has shown that this sequence produces the best results. It is paced to allow decisions to be made properly, not rushed. It keeps the design protected at every stage of the build. And it is led personally by both founders, from the first conversation to the final aftercare visit.
Consultation
We meet at your property. This first conversation is unhurried and exploratory, we want to understand how you live, what is not working about the current space, and what kind of transformation you have in mind. We walk through the space together, discuss ideas and begin to build a picture of the design language that might suit your home. By the end of the meeting we will have a clear sense of whether we are the right studio for your project, and we will tell you honestly if we are not. No fee, no obligation.
Bal · Design
lead
Tim · Build
joins
Concept Design
Following the consultation, Bal develops the concept direction: spatial planning options, a material and finish palette, and mood references that define the character of the project. Tim pressure-tests structural feasibility at this stage, we never develop a concept the building cannot support. The concept is presented to the client in a private meeting, with physical material samples alongside imagery and drawings.
Bal · Design
lead
Tim · Build
advises
Detailed Design
Detailed design produces the full drawing package: room-by-room plans, elevations, joinery details, lighting layouts, electrical and plumbing schematics, 3D visualisations for principal spaces, and a complete material and product specification schedule. Co-authored by Bal and Tim, nothing leaves the studio that cannot be built exactly as drawn.
Bal · Design
lead
Tim · Build
co-author
Specification & Procurement
Every fixture, fitting, finish and furniture item is fully specified and procured by the studio. Many clients make final material selections at this stage, where samples can be compared side by side. Long-lead items are placed early to protect the programme, and we manage delivery scheduling and storage throughout.
Bal · Design
lead
Tim · Build
lead
Renovation & Build
Tim runs every site personally, coordinating our network of craftsmen, master joiners, stonemasons, specialist plasterers, electrical and plumbing contractors, and holding the programme, the budget and the quality standard. Bal attends site weekly to protect the design through every on-site decision. Clients receive regular written updates and are welcome on site at any time by arrangement.
Bal · Design
protects
Tim · Build
lead
Final Reveal
On handover day, both founders are present. The home is fully styled, every snag is resolved, and the property is presented exactly as it appeared in the original concept. We walk through every room together and ensure you know your home completely. A six-month aftercare visit is included as standard.
Bal · Design
lead
Tim · Build
lead
Both founders are present from consultation through to handover. No project is ever passed down.
Questions we are often asked.
How long does a typical project take?
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A full whole-home renovation typically runs between 6 and 14 months, depending on the extent of structural work and the length of the design phase. We give you a realistic programme estimate at consultation, and we never take on more projects than we can resource properly.
Do you only work on large or high-value homes?
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We work on homes of varying sizes across the Elmbridge borough. Our clients range from families undertaking a significant kitchen and bathroom renovation to owners of large estate properties planning whole-home transformations. What matters to us is the quality of the project, not its scale.
Do you handle planning permission?
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Yes. The full planning and building regulations process can be undertaken by us for all projects that require it. For properties on private estates with additional covenant requirements, our established relationships with local planning officers and estate management teams are a genuine advantage.
Can we meet before committing to anything?
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Absolutely, in fact we encourage it. Call or email to arrange an appointment at our studio or your property.
Do you take on design-only projects?
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Yes. Bal offers a full interior design service for clients who have their own contractor or who are not undertaking structural work. Tim is available for renovation consultancy and specification review throughout.
What if we are not in the UK during the build?
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We work regularly with clients who travel or are based overseas. A number of our clients have multiple homes around the world, so we have considerable experience working virtually. Regular written updates, video walk-throughs and milestone meetings are arranged around your schedule. Both founders are directly reachable throughout.
Ready to begin?
We invite you to a private consultation at our Surrey studio or your property.
Book a consultation