Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chartered Architects in Godalming
Established in 1976, MVL Architects is a family-run practice dedicated to delivering innovative architectural and surveying solutions across the UK. Our approach combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), to create bespoke designs tailored to each client's unique requirements. We specialise in domestic, commercial, educational, and conservation projects, prioritising client collaboration and site-specific solutions. Our team of chartered architects and surveyors ensures every project, from traditional heritage buildings to contemporary developments, meets the highest standards of functionality and aesthetics.With offices in Godalming, Cardiff, and Alton, we work closely with clients to navigate planning regulations, building codes, and technical challenges, maintaining long-term relationships built on trust and expertise. Our commitment to excellence has earned acclaim for projects within sensitive environments, including Green Belt areas and listed buildings. By integrating modern methodologies with traditional craftsmanship, we deliver spaces that enhance user experience while respecting historical and environmental contexts. This dedication to quality and client satisfaction underpins our reputation as a trusted partner in architectural design and surveying services.
Services
Domestic Sketch Scheme
Building Information Modelling
Commercial Feasibility Study
Measured Surveys
Party Wall Services
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience in architectural design and surveying.
- Our team includes chartered architects and surveyors with RIBA accreditation.
- We utilise BIM technology for precise 3D design visualisation.
- Client collaboration is central to our bespoke design solutions.
- Free initial feasibility calls to discuss your project requirements.
What people say
Excellent buildings
Happy with layout
Good acoustics
Lovely kitchen design
Successful project outcomes
Services
Domestic Sketch Scheme
Our Domestic Sketch Scheme offers a one-day consultation where chartered architects visit your property to discuss requirements and produce tailored sketch drawings. This service focuses on creating practical layouts that optimise space circulation and functionality while aligning with your vision. Clients receive immediate visual proposals to kickstart their domestic projects effectively.
Building Information Modelling
We employ BIM technology across all projects to create interactive 3D models that allow clients to visualise their developments during the design process. This digital approach enhances accuracy in planning applications and construction documentation while enabling real-time adjustments to meet specific project requirements efficiently.
Commercial Feasibility Study
This cost-effective service analyses client briefs to produce feasibility reports with sketch designs and actionable recommendations. We assess planning constraints, budget alignment, and design solutions to determine viable pathways for commercial and educational developments, ensuring informed decision-making before project progression.
Measured Surveys
Using laser scanning technology, we conduct precise topographical and building surveys to create accurate digital plans. These surveys form the foundation for design proposals and planning applications, ensuring all subsequent work aligns perfectly with existing site conditions and legal requirements.
Party Wall Services
As members of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors, we provide expert advice and documentation under the Party Wall Etc. Act 1996. Our services include preparing schedules of condition, acting as appointed surveyors, and resolving disputes to ensure legal compliance for adjacent property works.
People
Malcolm Lelliott
Managing Director
Founder of MVL Architects in 1976, Malcolm is a chartered surveyor with extensive expertise in party wall legislation and European professional standards. He has held leadership roles in multiple construction institutes and received the Andrew Byrne Cup for European contributions.
Chris Lelliott
Director
A chartered architect with RIBA, Chris joined the family practice in 2002 after working in multinational firms. He specialises in private and commercial housing sectors, bringing diverse experience in schools, infrastructure, and refurbishment projects across the UK.
Justin Williams
Chartered Architect
With experience in award-winning projects across healthcare, education, and conservation sectors, Justin provides expertise in both large-scale commercial developments and small architectural projects, combining technical knowledge with creative design solutions.
Ellen Sinclair
Assistant Architect
Ellen combines architectural practice with interests in travel and design innovation. She contributes to residential and commercial projects, bringing fresh perspectives to both traditional and contemporary building solutions.
Sam Plank
Assistant Architect
A Guildford-born architect with a focus on user experience in built environments, Sam contributes to Surrey-based projects while maintaining active involvement in outdoor sports and community design initiatives.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide domestic and commercial design, BIM modelling, feasibility studies, measured surveys, and party wall services across the UK.
How do you handle planning applications?
Our team prepares full documentation, submits applications to local authorities, and manages communication throughout the approval process.
Do you work outside Surrey?
Yes, we operate throughout the UK with offices in Godalming, Cardiff, and Alton serving national projects.
What is your design process?
We begin with client consultations, followed by sketch schemes, BIM modelling, and detailed planning before construction support.
Are initial consultations free?
We offer limited free feasibility calls to discuss project requirements and potential solutions.
How do you ensure project quality?
Our chartered professionals use industry-standard technology and maintain close client collaboration throughout all project stages.
