Sam Gillies Designs | Residential & Commercial Architectural Services

What we do

We specialise in design-oriented and budget-friendly architecture. We pride ourselves on our ability to listen and to translate the client's dreams and aspirations into light-filled, inspiring spaces.

What we've done

As an experienced architect based in Maidenhead, founder Sam Gillies has operated within several sectors and established a track record of securing successful planning applications and delivering projects in the southeast and particularly within Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. Please see our for a concise selection of some of our favourite projects.

What we can do

Please to discuss your project today.

"I’ve worked with Sam on a couple of residential projects, in short - he’s absolutely fantastic.

Has a way of simplifying design/ Architecture / light and process to something that is understandable and that you can base decisions off.

Genuinely helpful, throughout design and planning, genuinely lightened the load of what is a complex process.

He’s incredibly responsive and communicative throughout the entire process and even post-project.

I couldn’t recommend Sam highly enough."

— Shyam B, Marlow

Featured Projects

Burnham, Bucks

Planning application and building control full plans applications consented to provide a rear extension with new kitchen, utility and downstairs WC spaces.

Marlow, Bucks

Planning permission, building control full plans and build-over agreements secured to provide both rear single storey and loft extensions. 3D modelling was key in configuring the loft access stair whilst maximising floorspace.

Maidenhead, Berks

Side extension and structural alterations to provide extra ground floor area. Feasibility and costing including CGI imagery and animation work to communicate design intent.

Maidenhead, Berks

Planning application to secure consent for a side-infill extension (of 7m2) with rooflight to unlock valuable space to result in a large open-plan kitchen-dining room.

Cox Green, Berks

Roof conversion and structural alterations to an existing extension, creating a large, open plan kitchen-dining area with glass roof lanterns. Planning consent secured.

Marlow, Bucks

Planning permission, building control full plans and build-over agreements secured to provide both rear single storey and loft extensions. 3D modelling was key in configuring the loft access stair whilst maximising floorspace.

About the Studio

Sam Gillies has over 10 years' experience as an ARB registered, chartered architect. With a wide and varied range of experience, Sam has designed and delivered a large number of schemes of varying sizes, scales and sector disciplines – including residential, commercial fit out, life sciences, education, healthcare, catering, motorsport, conferencing (and others).

As an experienced architect based in Maidenhead, Sam has operated within several sectors and established track record of securing successful planning applications in the Southeast, and particularly within Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

His mission is to build an enduring reputation built on trust, execution, and exceptional design, and focuses on three key principles:

01 / Briefing & Collaboration

We listen: understanding the client’s priorities is at the forefront of our approach. We aim to be proactive and responsive to ensure clients are kept in the loop with active communication throughout the process.

02 / Budget Integration

A beautiful design is only successful if it can be built within your budget parameters. To eliminate financial guesswork, we can work with professional cost estimators at an early stage to ensure designs align with realistic projected construction costs from day one.

03 / Spatial & Daylight Optimization

Exceptional residential architecture isn't about adding square footage for the sake of it; it is about maximizing the spatial potential and natural light within your home's footprint. We focus on the quality rather than quantity of space.

"Sam was incredibly helpful in guiding me through a planning strategy for a front garden garage build. He provided clear, expert advice across a complex range of factors—including feasibility, costs, planning approaches, rights to light, party wall matters, and building regulations regarding spread of flame. His thoroughness and expertise gave me complete confidence in the project's direction. Highly recommended!"

— Chris D, Swindon

Core Architectural Services

Our services extend (but are not limited) to:

Residential and commercial sector work

Surveying existing conditions and conversion to CAD environment

Planning drawings, design and access statements, flood risk statements and lodging planning applications

Building control drawings and applications

CDM and BSA Principal Designer roles

Interior design

Project management

Feasibility studies and collaboration with QS for early outline costing

Tender review and recommendations

Sun studies

Computer generated imagery and animations

3D modelling and (for larger schemes) BIM execution and implementation

Party Wall Agreements

Thames Water build-over agreements

Planning Application Drawing Packs

from £1,200*

Building Control Drawing Packs

from £1,800*

*Starting prices are indicative of a standard, single-storey, single-aspect ground floor extension. Final quotations are bespoke and project-specific to account for scale, structural complexity, and site constraints. Fees cover architectural design packs only and strictly exclude local authority application fees, structural engineering calculations, measured site surveys, and third-party consultant costs.

Get In Touch

Have an upcoming residential renovation or commercial project in mind? Contact the studio directly to schedule an initial feasibility consultation or discuss your layout parameters.

Direct Email

sam@samgilliesdesigns.co.uk

Telephone

07902 031689