Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Studio

  • We specialise in bespoke residential design — from new homes and extensions to renovations and interiors. We also take on select commercial and educational projects around Dublin and Leinster.

  • Yes. We’re registered with the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), which means we’re fully qualified to manage every stage of your project in line with Irish planning and building regulations.

  • While we’re based in Dublin, we regularly take on projects throughout Leinster and occasionally further afield if the fit is right.

  • While it isn’t legally required in every case, having an architect involved is strongly recommended. An architect will help you make the most of your space, plan layouts efficiently for maximum usability, avoid costly mistakes, manage planning permission, coordinate engineers and builders, and ensure compliance with Building Regulations.

    At JAKU, all work is delivered by a fully RIAI-registered and insured professional. We provide contract administration and site inspections, guiding decisions to get the most value from your budget and ensuring the design is executed correctly, on time, and to the highest standard. This approach results in a better-designed home, fewer on-site issues, and real savings in time, cost, and stress.

  • It all starts with a conversation. We’ll meet to discuss your ideas, your site, and your goals. From there, we guide you step by step through design, planning, and construction, so you always know what’s happening and can make confident decisions at every stage.

  • Every project is different, but most follow these key stages. You can appoint us for the full process or for individual stages depending on your needs.

    1. Initial Consultation
    We discuss your ideas, site constraints, budget and programme to establish a clear brief and project strategy.

    2. Concept Design
    We develop design options that balance layout, aesthetics, planning policy and cost from the outset.

    3. Planning Permission
    Where required, we prepare and manage the planning application, producing all drawings and reports needed to maximise approval potential.

    4. Detailed Design & Technical Coordination
    We prepare comprehensive construction drawings and coordinate with engineers and specialist consultants to ensure regulatory compliance and buildability.

    5. Construction & Site Involvement
    We remain involved during construction to monitor quality, resolve technical issues and ensure the project is delivered in accordance with the approved design.

  • Every project is different, but typical timeframes are:

    • Small renovations / extensions: approximately 2–3 months from initial design to planning submission.

    • Larger projects or new homes: approximately 4–6 months, depending on complexity.

    Once we understand your brief, site and objectives, we will provide a clear programme outlining each stage so you know exactly what to expect.

  • We begin with function,how spaces will be used day-to-day, before developing form. Layout, light and circulation are shaped around your routines, not a predetermined style.

  • At the early concept stage, we typically present 2–3 distinct design options to explore different ideas and opportunities for your site.

    We then work closely with you to refine your preferred direction. Design does not progress to the next stage until you are fully satisfied with the agreed concept.

  • Yes. Flexibility is considered from the outset so your home can respond to future lifestyle changes.

Design Process

Planning & Approvals

  • Yes. We prepare and submit the full planning application, coordinate specialist reports and manage all communication with the planning authority.

  • Local councils usually take about 8 weeks to make a decision, though this can vary depending on the project and location.

Construction & Delivery

  • Yes, we offer site inspection and construction administration services to ensure your project runs smoothly and the finished result reflects the design intent.

  • Yes we can suggest builders suited to your project type and budget from a network of trusted local contractors.

Sustainability & Design

  • Yes — every project is designed with energy performance in mind. We focus on building orientation, natural daylight, high-performance insulation, airtightness strategies, and durable materials to create buildings that are comfortable, efficient to run, and built to last.

  • Absolutely. All new homes and major renovations in Ireland must achieve Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) compliance. We integrate energy strategy from the earliest design stages, coordinating with BER assessors and engineers to ensure your project meets regulations without unnecessary cost or redesign later.

Getting Started

  • Get in touch through our Contact page to arrange a free, no-obligation property visit. We’ll discuss your ideas, site, budget and timescales, and clearly outline the next steps for your project.

  • Any information you already have is helpful — site maps, estate agent plans, surveys, photographs, or examples of spaces you like. This allows us to quickly understand your brief and identify early opportunities.