C M Architectural

01/08/2026

Ending the month on a high! 🙌📐📏

This week wrapped up with two very different building surveys, each highlighting the importance of using the right tools for the job.

The first was undertaken alongside for a joint project with Pennycook Builders, where I had the opportunity to see first-hand the benefits of drone surveying. For complex and difficult-to-access roofs, drones provide a safe, efficient way to capture high-quality imagery and identify defects that would otherwise be challenging to inspect by ladder!

The second survey took me back to a stunning setting—a beautiful estate property—where my tried-and-tested survey methods were the perfect approach. Sometimes there's simply no substitute for my tape measure, laser, notes and a thorough eye for detail.

Every property is different, and choosing the right surveying method is key to delivering accurate information and informed design decisions.

A great way to round off a sunny and productive July, (though I can't quite believe it's August today!) with plenty of experience gained and a gentle reminder that combining traditional techniques with modern technology gives my clients the very best outcome.

https://clmorgan15.substack.com/p/the-survey-as-the-foundation-of-architecture

31/07/2026

Project Focus | Dryslwyn | Residential Extension

Planning Permission Granted ... ✔

I am delighted to share that planning permission has been granted for the transformation of a beautiful traditional Welsh cottage nestled at the foot of Dryslwyn Castle.

From the very beginning, my clients had a clear vision. More than simply creating additional space, their priority was to reconnect the home with its stunning garden. Although surrounded by beautiful landscape, the existing cottage offers very little visual or physical connection to its plot.

The design responds to this by introducing a contemporary south-facing extension that embraces the garden while respecting the character and charm of the original cottage. The proposal creates a bright, open-plan interior, filled with natural light and carefully framed views, while retaining the character that makes the cottage so special.

It has been a pleasure translating my clients' vision to the design and I am looking forward to working with them on the next stage as we work towards Building Regulations and then construction! 🏡🌿

29/07/2026

CMArchitectural are pleased to have been able to assist in gaining planning and building regulations consent.
https://cmarchitectural15.blogspot.com/2026/05/project-focus-cross-hands-commercial.html?m=1

The business has had more than £312,000 in funding

14/07/2026

14/07/2026

Great to see this project taking shape...

01/07/2026

22/06/2026

🚨 BIG CHANGES TO BUILDING REGULATIONS IN WALES – COMING 1 JULY 2026 🚨

If you are planning or carrying out building work this year, there are important changes coming to the Building Regulations system that will affect how projects are designed, approved and managed.

From 1 July 2026, responsibility for compliance will no longer sit solely with Building Control at the end of the project — there will be much greater emphasis on getting things right from the very beginning.

Here’s what’s changing 👇

🔹 New Responsibilities for Everyone Involved
A new 'dutyholder' system means:
✅ Clients, designers and contractors all have clear legal responsibilities
✅ Compliance must be considered throughout the entire build process
✅ Responsibility doesn’t just sit with Building Control inspections anymore

🔹 Greater Focus on Preparation Before Building Starts
Projects will now require:
✔ Accurate and compliant designs BEFORE work begins
✔ Better documentation throughout the project
✔ Clear communication with Building Control from start to finish
⚠ Poorly prepared submissions could lead to delays or additional costs.

🔹 Stronger Enforcement Powers
Local Authorities will now have greater powers to:
⚠ Stop unsafe or non-compliant works
⚠ Require corrective works where regulations aren’t followed
⚠ Take enforcement action years after project completion

🔹 This Applies To Most Domestic Projects
🏠 Extensions
🏠 Loft conversions
🏠 Garage conversions
🏠 Structural alterations
🏠 Renovations and internal alterations
🏠 Drainage, heating and electrical works

The important thing? Don’t panic.

These changes simply mean projects will need to be planned more carefully and managed properly throughout construction.

Whether you are a homeowner planning a project or a builder wanting plans drawn based on the new requirements, I can help guide you through the process and ensure everything is prepared correctly from the outset.

Feel free to get in touch to discuss any upcoming projects or questions.

19/06/2026

Yesterday I shared some exciting news about securing planning permission and listed building consent for the old NatWest Bank in Llandeilo.

What has been particularly striking over the last 24 hours is just how widely the post has been shared and the overwhelmingly positive response it has received. It is clear that people genuinely care about seeing empty buildings brought back to life and celebrating exciting new independent businesses finding a home on our high streets.

But alongside all of that positivity, it also got me thinking about the bigger picture… what does it say about the changing nature of our towns when the very buildings that once housed essential everyday services are increasingly becoming vacant?

I suspect I reflect on projects like this slightly differently because I experience them from two perspectives. As an architectural designer, I naturally celebrate the creative re-use of historic buildings and the opportunities adaptive design creates; protecting historic buildings while helping shape creative new futures. But as a Town Councillor, I also see the wider reality facing our communities — services disappearing, concerns regularly raised by residents and the quiet changes happening to the everyday fabric of town life — automation is growing, physical services are disappearing and the everyday human interactions that once shaped our communities are slowly fading.

It feels like an interesting contradiction worth reflecting on. A few thoughts on old banks, changing high streets, the relationship between architecture, community and the future of our town centres are in Substack No 5.

You can find it here: https://clmorgan15.substack.com/p/when-the-banks-leave-town?r=s869o