Design it with skill, Manage it with passion

Hello, and welcome to DAY5. I'm Barbara Paagman, and DAY5 is me – a small, Hertfordshire-based architecture practice with a big belief that great architecture should be available to everyone.

You're probably here because you're thinking about making changes to your home or building something new. This might be one of the most expensive thing you'll ever spend money on, so you're looking for a professional to help you – someone who understands your dreams, requirements, personal situation and budget.

What Makes DAY5 Different

I really believe that architecture isn't just about pretty pictures and expensive materials. It's about how you live every day and how your house can give you the spaces you really need. Every project is unique because every client is unique, and every design I create is developed with you – understanding you, your habits, your dreams, and everyone who uses your house regularly, from your partner to your kids to your pets.

I don't simply copy what's been done before. I look at different solutions, and I really like it when we can be bold and colorful!

My designs start with listening to you and really trying to understand how you would like to use your house. I work with you to develop a clear brief for your project, asking lots of questions that help me suggest different ways your house can best support you every day.

Working Together as a Team

Good projects need dialogue – not just between you and me, but between you, the builder, other consultants, and even the council. I put a lot of effort into building good relationships with everyone involved because I believe every person in the team brings something unique and valuable to the table. I enjoy listening and learning from all of them.

Being local to Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire – covering St Albans, Harpenden, Berkhamsted, and extending to London – I understand the local market and know local builders and suppliers. I have extensive experience with the planning system in St Albans and Dacorum, and I understand the planning regulations inside out. These local relationships make all the difference in getting projects approved and built smoothly.

My Approach

You'll get my full attention from the first phone call or email until the final lick of paint on the wall, but I also want your full attention. I aim to be friendly, approachable, and collaborative. I enjoy spending time understanding you, your life, aspirations, and priorities because I want to design the house that makes you happy every time you come through the front door.

This means I expect your commitment to the project too, and I appreciate your feedback on our ideas. Every project becomes great when it's a team effort, with you, the builder, and me all working together, suggesting ideas and solutions.

Experience & Expertise

I'm a fully registered architect with an MSc from the Faculty of Architecture at Delft University. I started my career in London with firms like Levitt Bernstein, Finkernagel Ross Architects, Article 25, and M3 Consulting, where I gained extensive experience managing large and complicated projects in the City of London.

In 2019, I took the bold step to set up DAY5 because I wanted to work directly with clients on smaller, more personal projects. I'm particularly passionate about listed buildings – there's something special about breathing new life into historic structures while respecting their character.

I also teach at the University of Hertfordshire, where I share my passion for architecture and my knowledge with the next generation. This love of teaching extends to how I work with clients – I believe in educating and empowering you through every step of the process, explaining each stage clearly, discussing your options, and answering any questions you might have.

From Feasibility to Finish

Whether you found me because you need help with a planning application or you need a bit more space but don't want to move home, I provide a full architectural service from initial briefing through to completing the project on site. From feasibility studies to construction management, I'm here to guide you through the entire journey.

Perhaps you need a garden shed for just that little bit more space, a loft extension for an extra bedroom, or you're planning a new build in your dream location. I can help you with all aspects of your project, from advice and design to preparing and managing the construction.

Let's Talk

Architecture is a response to people and place. I'm interested in your dreams and ideas, and I'm open-minded. I work on a variety of residential projects and styles, and I understand varying budgets.

Most of all, I want all people involved to look back on the process with pride and joy. My architecture isn't about Instagram pictures of the end result – it's about listening to clients and builders to make the best building that suits its purpose.

Ready to start your project? I'd love to hear about your ideas and see how we can work together to create something uniquely yours.

Get in touch today – let's make architecture available to you.