Architecture. Design. Cornwall.//
Chartered Design Studio
From the Coast to the Countryside
What We Do//
archiCO. is a modern approach to architecture. Your partner for architectural design services in Cornwall clients can rely on from inception to completion. As a CIAT Chartered Practice, we offer practical and creative architectural services, including obtaining planning permission, building control approval, administering contracts and providing beautiful design the whole way through.
Want to meet us? No problem, whether you are planning new builds, extensions, alterations or conversions to historic buildings, we keep the entire process simple. We can meet you on site or at our office in Trelawney Business Park, Callington, to understand your project, discuss your vision and provide clear guidance on the best route forward.
Download our Design Brochure//
Projects//
Seaton, Cornwall\\ Home Extension on the Coast
Stoke Climsland, Cornwall\\ Self Build Home
Callington, Cornwall\\ 2 no. Self Build Homes
Trerulefoot, Cornwall\\ Barn Conversion and Extension
Stoke Climsland, Cornwall\\ Home Rear Extension
Tamar Valley\\ Heritage Farmhouse Alterations
Isles of Scilly\\ Self Build Home
Ongoing Designs\\
Who Am I?//
I am a Chartered Architectural Technologist and founder of archiCO, managing all aspects of the practice from the initial client consultation, concept and planning through to technical design, coordination and project delivery. Working independently allows me to provide a highly personal and detail-focused service, ensuring every project is carefully considered and delivered without compromise.
I grew up in Cornwall which is where I still live and work. Outside of work I enjoy listening and playing music, outdoor walks with my wife Alice and Border Collie Pippa, as well as bouldering (climbing) a few nights a week.
I specialise in residential new-build developments, extensions, adaptions and conversions throughout Devon and Cornwall, with a strong focus on sustainability and the delivery of high-performance homes, additionally with the integration of Passivhaus/ other high performance principles where appropriate. Alongside archiCO, I also co-own and operate Phase Cabins and Saunas, an offsite manufacturer of studio and wellness structures.
Matthew Selleck MCIAT- Director/ Owner
About//
N E W B U I L D S // E X T E N S I O N S /// A L T E R A T I O N S // C O N V E R S I O N S
archiCO. keeps things simple. We are a chartered architectural technology studio based in Cornwall, supporting clients across the South West with residential design, planning and technical services. The studio is run by Matthew Selleck MCIAT. archiCO. offers a complete design service from inception to completion across every RIBA Design Stage.
We know how daunting it can be to start a new building project, that is why we tailor our level of service to your exact requirements, whilst guiding you through the whole process.
Know what you’re doing already? Great. archiCO. offers architectural schemes to all clients looking to develop their next residential project from homeowners to landlords and contractors.
Quality of information is important to us. Whether that is an initial sketch scheme ensuring clear and concise conceptual designs, following with planning submissions through to detailed technical drawings for building control applications and construction information.
Did we mention 3D?
As a technology led architecture studio, our focus is to utilise modern design tools that both offers the opportunity for visual walkthroughs and subsequent benefits of a reduced opportunity for errors prior to any spades in the ground. We can send a digital model directly to your smart device for you to review our information at your own pace.
Fees//
Note- concept design includes for up to two options or one revision. Further changes or options will be charged at an hourly rate.
Note- changes beyond agreed scope will be charged in addition at an hourly rate.
+ O P T I O N S / /
Returning Client Discount//
Up to £500,000 Expected Construction Cost (EBC)- 10% discount
£500,000 to £1m EBC= 5% discount
£1m+ EBC= 2.5% discount
Technical Partner//
We additionally offer a dedicated Technical Partner service, supporting contractors from RIBA Stage 4 (Technical Design) through to construction and completion.
Where a project may already have a planning approval in place, we act as your architectural and technical delivery partner—taking ownership of all architectural technical services required to build the project efficiently, compliantly, and with clarity.
What we do
We provide a comprehensive technical package tailored to contractor-led delivery, including:
Building Regulations compliance and coordination
Principle Designer Responsibilities
Detailed technical design and construction information
Technical detailing and specification support
Design coordination with other specialist consultants
Responding to RFIs and technical queries
Value engineering and buildability input
Ongoing technical support during construction
Our focus is on resolving risk early, reducing ambiguity, and
ensuring information is clear, coordinated, and ready for site.
How we add value
Seamless transition from planning to construction
We develop approved planning designs into robust, build-ready technical packages that support the next stage of the project.
Contractor-focused approach
We understand contractor workflows, procurement routes and site challenges, tailoring our support to the way projects are delivered in the real construction industry.
Clear accountability
A single architectural point of contact for technical matters helps streamline communication, manage information and support better decisions.
Problem-solving
We provide practical, compliant solutions that balance design intent, cost, programme, safety and buildability.
When this service is right for you
This service is ideal where:
Planning approval has already been secured
Yourself/ your contractor is appointed to deliver the project
A technically capable architectural partner is required post-planning
Clear, coordinated technical information is critical to programme and cost certainty
Whether supporting a design-and-build, traditional, or hybrid
procurement route, we integrate seamlessly into your delivery team.
Frequently Asked Questions//
1. What services do archiCO. provide?
We offer a full range of Cornish architectural design and technical services, for both residential and commercials clients, including measured surveys, concept design, planning submissions, building regulations drawings, 3D visualisations, technical drawings, project management and support through construction to completion. Our expertise covers a range of project types, helping you explore the best route for your space.
2. Do I need planning permission for my project?
This depends on the type, scale and location of the proposal. Some home extensions and alterations may fall under permitted development, while new builds and more complex projects usually require formal planning submission. There are also other PD options such as agricultural to residential conversions under Class Q, though all new builds require formal planning approval. We can assess your property and advise the most suitable route before starting the design.
3. How long does the planning process take?
Local authorities typically take around 8 to 10 weeks to decide on a planning application, although this can vary depending on the council, project type and complexity. Where needed, we can assist with preparing clear information to help the process move forward.
4. What is the difference between planning permission and building regulations?
Planning consent deals with the appearance, size and impact of the development, including how it relates to the surrounding area and wider landscape. Building regulations ensure safety standards including structure, fire safety, energy efficiency, accessibility standards, materials and overall compliance.
5. How much do your architectural services cost?
Costs vary depending on the size, complexity and stage of the project. We provide transparent, fixed-fee quotations after an initial consultation, so you know exactly what to expect before proceeding and can plan your budget with confidence.
6. Can you help if my planning application has been refused?
Yes. Working closely with you, we can review the refusal, advise on how to address the council’s concerns, and prepare a revised application or appeal if appropriate. Our aim is to create a clearer route forward based on the issues raised.
7. Do your architectural technologists offer site visits and measured surveys?
Absolutely. We offer free architectural consultations in Cornwall, and every proceeding project begins with a detailed measured survey so that all drawings are accurate and compliant with planning and building requirements. We can arrange surveys at a suitable time and undertake the information gathering needed to start work on the design.
8. Can Archico offer project management for the entire project from start to finish?
Yes. Our architectural firm provides support from early concept design through planning, building regulations, contract administration, tendering, and coordination with builders and engineers during construction all the way to completion. This helps manage the process and keeps the team working towards the same outcome.
9. Do you provide 3D visuals or virtual walkthroughs?
Yes. We offer 3D renders and models to help you visualise the design before any work begins. This is especially helpful for homeowners making layout or interior decisions, allowing you to better understand the space before construction starts. All our works are developed via a 3D software platform.
10. What is CIAT?
CIAT stands for the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. It is the leading professional membership and qualifying body for Architectural Technology in the UK, promoting education, practice, continuing professional development and professional standards within the field.
Working with a CIAT Chartered Practice means your project benefits from recognised standards, technical knowledge and a clear understanding of how design, planning, building regulations and technical information come together.
11. How do I get started?
Simply contact us through our contact form or directly via telephone or our design@archico.co.uk email address to book a free initial consultation. We’ll discuss your ideas, outline the process, and provide a tailored proposal for your project.
Let’s Work Together//
Our email address and telephone number is below. If you would rather please use the contact form and we will be in touch.
Unit 18 Trelawney Business Park, Callington, Cornwall, PL17 7SD
01579 560124
design@archico.co.uk