Architect Consultation in Dorset: Why We Now Charge for Initial Site Visits

As the only registered architect based in the DT4 postcode, Rosenkelly Architectural Design understands the value of staying connected to our local community – and of being transparent with our clients. That’s why we want to be direct and honest about a recent change in how we handle consultations.

We now charge a modest fee for initial site visits and consultations. This decision came after a year of intense demand, with free meetings often resulting in lost time and energy for our small, highly focused team. Below, we explain why this approach benefits both you – the serious homeowner or developer – and us as a hyper-local, client-focused architecture practice in Dorset.

Free Ballpark Quotes vs. Paid Site Visits

We still offer free informal quotes via email or phone for anyone exploring a potential project in Weymouth, Portland, or greater Dorset. But if you'd like us to visit your site, review your plans, and discuss ideas in detail, we now charge a small fee to reflect the time and expertise involved.

Why We Charge for Initial Consultations

As one of Dorset’s leanest and most responsive architecture firms, we’ve learned that free consultations came at a cost:

• Time lost preparing for and attending meetings that often led nowhere

• Travel expenses for site visits across Dorset

• Disruption to our focus on active client projects

• No guarantee that clients would follow up, even after detailed advice

We found ourselves spending half a day on “free” meetings, only to learn two other designers were also quoting – and we didn't win the work. As the only architect in DT4, our time is valuable and best spent on projects where we can truly add value.

Our Consultation Fees

We’ve introduced a simple, transparent fee structure for site visits:

• £155 for site visits anywhere in Dorset

• £100 for clients in Weymouth or Portland – part of our commitment to stay affordable and hyper-local

These fees cover the time we spend preparing (e.g. desktop research, policy checks), travel, the on-site consultation itself, and detailed follow-up including a bespoke quote or appointment letter.

And if you appoint us, we deduct this fee from your total – so it becomes free in the end.

The Right Clients, the Right Fit

This small fee has helped us naturally filter for clients who are serious and ready to move forward. Those who contact us now typically know what they want, have done their research, and are more prepared to make decisions. That makes for better projects and smoother collaboration.

We’re here to support those clients who are ready to invest in their property, their future, and a smooth planning process.

Why Rosenkelly?

At Rosenkelly Architectural Design, we offer:

• Expertise in Dorset planning applications and design

• Professional 2D/3D modelling and rendered visuals

• Clear, honest communication with no upselling

• A small but responsive team focused entirely on Dorset-based projects

We don’t overpromise – we aim to get it right from the start. That begins with a proper consultation.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you're based in Weymouth, Portland, or anywhere in Dorset and are planning a home improvement, extension, or new development – get in touch today. Let’s make your project a success, from the first visit to final delivery.

👉 Contact Rosenkelly Architectural Design to book your consultation. You’ll receive thoughtful, experienced advice and a clear plan of action.