What we do

Architectural Services

At Brennan Furlong Architects we provide architectural services across domestic, residential, commercial, educational, recreational and conservation projects, with a process shaped by clear thinking, careful design and practical delivery. Our work begins with the realities of site, context and brief, and develops through a rigorous design process that balances ambition with buildability.

We work at different scales and stages, from early feasibility studies and planning strategy to full architectural design, technical documentation and construction-stage input. Some clients come to us with a clear brief and a defined site. Others need help testing options, understanding constraints or shaping the project from the outset. In all cases, our role is to bring structure, design judgement and experience to the process.

Whether the project involves adapting an existing building, designing a new home, improving a commercial space or working within the constraints of a protected structure, our approach remains consistent: thoughtful, context-led and grounded in how buildings are actually, approved, built and used.

Award Winning Homes

Residential Architecture

Residential work forms a significant part of our practice. We design homes that respond carefully to how people live, how light moves through a building, and how spaces should connect both internally and to the outside. This may involve a new house on an open or constrained site, or the transformation of an existing home through extension, renovation or internal reconfiguration.

We work on house extensions, refurbishments, remodelling projects and one-off homes, helping clients improve space, circulation, comfort and architectural clarity. In existing houses, this often means resolving awkward layouts, introducing better daylight, strengthening the relationship to the garden, and making the old and new feel coherent. In new homes, it means developing a design that is specific to site, orientation and context rather than relying on generic solutions.

Our residential service can include brief development, concept design, planning applications, technical design, tender information and construction-stage involvement.

Commercial & Civic Amenity

Commercial Architecture

We work on commercial projects where design quality, functionality and identity all matter. Commercial buildings and interiors need to perform efficiently, meet regulatory requirements and support the way a business operates, while also creating spaces that feel coherent, robust and well considered.

Our commercial work may include offices, hospitality settings, retail environments, mixed-use projects and other workspaces where spatial planning, circulation, detailing and atmosphere all play a role. We approach these projects with an understanding that commercial architecture is not only about appearance, but also about practical use, brand expression, durability and delivery.

At early stage, we can help test the viability of a site or premises and assess what is possible. As the project develops, we bring together concept design, statutory compliance, technical coordination and procurement information to support a well-managed outcome.

Period Homes & Conservation

Conservation and Protected Structures

Conservation work requires a different kind of attention. It demands careful reading of the existing building, an understanding of its historic significance, and a disciplined approach to intervention. We work on protected structures and historically sensitive buildings where repair, adaptation and extension must be handled with care.

Our role is often to balance the needs of contemporary use with the character and integrity of the original building. This can involve conservation-led repair, internal adaptation, restoration of historic fabric, or the design of new interventions that are clearly resolved without competing with what is already there. It also involves working with the technical and statutory requirements that typically accompany this kind of project.

We approach conservation architecture with respect for craftsmanship, material authenticity and architectural continuity, while recognising that older buildings often need thoughtful change in order to remain useful and occupied.

Feasability Studies

Planning and Feasibility

Residential & Commercial Elements

Interior Architecture

Interior architecture is not separate from the building; it is part of how the building is understood and experienced. We design interiors that improve flow, proportion, atmosphere and usability, with attention to how rooms connect, how materials are handled and how details are resolved.

This can include internal remodelling, spatial reorganisation, bespoke joinery, kitchen and living arrangements, workplace interiors and the refinement of finishes and fixtures. In many projects, the most important architectural change is not an increase in floor area but a better use of what is already there. Interior architecture can bring order, calm and clarity to a building that otherwise feels fragmented or underused.

Our work aims to create interiors that are practical and durable, but also quiet, coherent and appropriate to the wider architecture.

Client Focused practise

From Brief to Completion

Our services are generally structured in line with the relevant RIAI agreement for the project. Domestic projects generally follow a 4-stage process, while larger, more complex projects usually follow the 8-stage structure. In either case, the scope of service is tailored to suit the specific requirements of the project.

Domestic RIAI Work Stages

Initial Design
We begin by discussing the brief, budget, timescale and ambitions for the project, while also reviewing the site or existing building. From this, we develop an initial design proposal and advise on planning, statutory requirements and whether specialist input may be needed. This stage establishes the overall direction of the project.

Developed Design
We take the agreed outline proposal forward, testing and refining the design in greater detail through drawings and discussion. At this stage we incorporate relevant planning, building and safety requirements, coordinate any specialist input, and where needed prepare the planning application.

Detail Design
Once the developed design is approved, we prepare the technical information needed to move the project towards construction. This includes detailed design, specifications, tender information and coordination with consultants where required, so that the project can be properly priced and built.

Construction
During construction, we advise on tenders and contracts, inspect the works at appropriate stages, and help administer the project through to completion. This can include certifying payments, reviewing progress on site, addressing issues that arise during construction, and issuing the relevant certification at completion where applicable.

Standard RIAI Work Stages

Inception & General Services
We begin by taking the initial brief, reviewing the site and advising on the key statutory, planning and project considerations. This stage helps establish the project scope, key constraints and whether further feasibility work or specialist advice is needed.

Outline Proposals
We analyse the client’s requirements and prepare outline design proposals in response. This stage is used to test the main approach, review broad cost implications and begin shaping the project in strategic terms.

Scheme Design
We develop the approved outline proposals into a more resolved architectural scheme. This stage advances the design sufficiently to consult with authorities, coordinate with consultants and, where required, prepare the planning application.

Detail Design / Building Regulations
Once the scheme is agreed, we develop the design in greater technical depth and prepare the information needed to demonstrate general compliance with Building Regulations and other statutory requirements.

Production Information
We prepare the production drawings, specifications and coordinated technical information required for pricing and construction. This stage provides the detailed documentation needed for the project to move confidently into tender and build.

Tender Action
Along with the project QS, we advise on suitable tenderers, issue tender documents, assess returned tenders and report on the outcomes. This stage supports the selection of the contractor and helps establish the project cost before construction begins.

Project Planning
Following tender review, we advise on contractor appointment and prepare the building contract documentation. This stage formally sets up the project for construction and clarifies responsibilities between the parties involved.

Operations on Site and Completion
During the construction stage, we administer the building contract, inspect progress and quality on site, coordinate information as required, and support the project through to completion. This stage concludes with the certification and close-out appropriate to the appointment.

What we do

Specialist Areas

House extensions & refurbishments
New-build homes
Conservation projects
Public realm projects
Residential developments
Sporting infrastructure
Commercial & workplace projects
Healthcare settings
Educational facilities
Hospitality establishments