Regulatory context
For projects that require Building Control approval, the appointment of a Principal Designer is a key part of meeting statutory duties under current building safety legislation and guidance.
Principal Designer services embedded within the design process
We provide independent Principal Designer services, working within the design process to plan, manage, and coordinate design risk and regulatory compliance—clearly, proportionately, and in line with government guidance.
Our role is to support project teams in meeting their obligations while maintaining clarity of responsibility and effective coordination throughout design development.
What we do
We provide Principal Designer oversight and coordination to support compliant, well-managed design development. We focus on structure, information flow, and proportionate governance—without duplicating the work of the design team.
Our role
The Principal Designer role is not separate from design—it is part of the design process.
- Coordinating design risk management
- Ensuring information flows clearly between disciplines
- Supporting compliance through design decisions
- Maintaining oversight as designs evolve
How we work with design teams
We do not take over design responsibilities.
Architects, engineers, and other designers continue to do what they have always done: design, advise, and innovate within their professional disciplines.
Our involvement allows:
- Architects to remain focused on leading the design
- Engineers to concentrate on technical solutions
- Specialists to contribute without added coordination burden
We provide the structure, coordination, and governance required by the Principal Designer role, allowing the design team to operate effectively and confidently.
What this means in practice
- Clear compliance without duplication
- No dilution of professional roles
- Proportionate oversight aligned with project scale
- A single, accountable point for Principal Designer duties
This approach reflects current government guidance and supports collaborative, well-managed design development.
Who we support
- Clients and developers seeking clarity and assurance
- Architects acting as lead designers
- Engineers and specialist consultants
- Small to medium project teams without in-house Principal Designer capability
Get in touch
If you need a Principal Designer who works with your design team—rather than around it—we’re happy to talk.
Initial discussions are informal and obligation-free.