Explore the sub-services

What is Technical Design?

Technical Design turns an approved scheme into information a contractor can build from. It develops the planning drawings into detailed construction packages, covering materials, junctions, dimensions and specifications, coordinated with structural, mechanical and electrical input.

It is also where Building Regulations compliance is demonstrated, with the design worked up to show how the building meets requirements for structure, fire safety, energy, accessibility and the rest.

Where Technical Design sits in the RIBA process

0. Strategic Definition

1. Preparation & Briefing

2. Concept Design

7. Use

3. Spatial Coordination

6. Handover

5. Manufacturing & Construction

4. Technical Design

4. Technical Design

Detailed drawings, specifications and schedules are produced so the project can be priced, procured and built. Design responsibilities are pinned down and information is prepared for tender or for a contractor to manufacture and construct.

Look at the whole process

When does Technical Design happen?

Technical Design sits between planning approval and construction. Once consent is secured, the scheme needs developing in far greater detail before a contractor can price it accurately or build it reliably, and before Building Regulations approval can be obtained.

Skipping or rushing this stage is a false economy. Thin technical information leads to inflated tender prices, as contractors price the uncertainty, and to disputes and variations on site once the gaps surface.

Why do Technical Design with AEC architecture?

Robust and compliant technical information

We prepare building regulations drawings, technical packages and specifications that meet statutory requirements and industry standards.

Coordinated design across disciplines

We work closely with engineers and consultants to integrate structural and services design, reducing clashes and ensuring consistency.

Buildable and efficient solutions

Through detailed construction design and ongoing coordination, we resolve technical challenges and support smooth delivery on site.

How does Technical Design improve the build?

Clear, coordinated technical information removes ambiguity before it reaches site. When drawings, specifications and consultant input all align, contractors can price with confidence, sequencing is predictable and fewer decisions get improvised in the moment.

The result is a smoother build with fewer surprises. Queries are rarer because the answers are already in the pack, quality is easier to check against a defined standard, and the finished building matches what was approved and intended.

Projects we have done

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FAQs

What is technical design?

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It is the stage where an approved design is developed into the detailed information needed to build it, including building regulations drawings, construction details, specifications and coordinated packages for pricing and construction.

Do you coordinate with structural and services engineers?

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Yes. We work closely with structural engineers and building services consultants throughout the technical stage, integrating their input into the design to reduce clashes and keep information consistent on site.

Can you produce a technical package for a scheme designed by another practice?

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Yes. We regularly pick up consented schemes and take them through building regulations and technical design, reviewing the existing information first so nothing is lost in the handover.

What our clients say

From schools to homeowners, we work closely with every client to deliver thoughtful, lasting architecture here’s what they’ve said about working with us.

Sarah Mitchell
Headteacher, Hollowbrook primary

AEC understood exactly what our school needed a space that was calm, practical, and inspiring for students and teachers alike. The whole process felt collaborative from day one, and the end result has had a real impact on daily school life.

James Carter
Private homeowner, Cambridge

Working with AEC was seamless. They listened carefully, challenged our thinking in the right ways, and delivered a design that just works — light, functional, and surprisingly cost-efficient. We couldn’t be happier with the result.

Ravi Patel
Director, Ashore housing development

AEC brought clarity and creativity to a complex residential scheme. Their technical knowledge and attention to detail kept the project on track and their team were genuinely great to work with.

Sarah Mitchell
Headteacher, Hollowbrook primary

AEC understood exactly what our school needed a space that was calm, practical, and inspiring for students and teachers alike. The whole process felt collaborative from day one, and the end result has had a real impact on daily school life.

James Carter
Private homeowner, Cambridge

Working with AEC was seamless. They listened carefully, challenged our thinking in the right ways, and delivered a design that just works — light, functional, and surprisingly cost-efficient. We couldn’t be happier with the result.

Ravi Patel
Director, Ashore housing development

AEC brought clarity and creativity to a complex residential scheme. Their technical knowledge and attention to detail kept the project on track and their team were genuinely great to work with.

Sarah Mitchell
Headteacher, Hollowbrook primary

AEC understood exactly what our school needed a space that was calm, practical, and inspiring for students and teachers alike. The whole process felt collaborative from day one, and the end result has had a real impact on daily school life.

James Carter
Private homeowner, Cambridge

Working with AEC was seamless. They listened carefully, challenged our thinking in the right ways, and delivered a design that just works — light, functional, and surprisingly cost-efficient. We couldn’t be happier with the result.

Ravi Patel
Director, Ashore housing development

AEC brought clarity and creativity to a complex residential scheme. Their technical knowledge and attention to detail kept the project on track and their team were genuinely great to work with.

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