HOKO Design, a UK-based startup seeking to use technology to transform the role of the architect, has raised $590,000 in a crowdfunding campaign. The company, which describes itself as “the homeowner’s architect,” focuses on integrating virtual reality, real-time client feedback, and a streamlined administrative process for clients, all with the aim of becoming “the first household name for residential architecture.”

Since its founding in 2019 in Glasgow, the company has grown to over 30 employees across the UK, which has worked with 246 clients to date. The company now holds a pre-money valuation of almost $20 million.

HOKO Design differentiates itself from the traditional architect role through a series of client features throughout design and construction stages. At concept stage, these include unlimited design revisions for the client, VR and video flythroughs, a cost analysis before planning stage, and a client dashboard with live updates on the project, including an ability to view and comment on drawings, make payments, and watch video flythroughs.

At planning and building control stage, the company handles all correspondence with the regulatory authority. At construction stage, the company’s building service HOKO Build prepares construction drawings, oversees the building contract, and carries out the roles of project manager, snagging, and completion documentation. Clients are also given access to HOKO Shop, an online catalog of interior products.

“We believe that homeowners are often forgotten by the architecture industry,” explained the company as part of their crowdfunding campaign. “We are focused exclusively on extensions and home alterations in a UK market expected to hit £47 billion in 2021.”

“We have custom-built Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and a unique business model to control the renovation process, getting the most out of our Architects and all aspects of the project delivery, from construction to interior design,” the company continued.

News of HOKO’s growth comes weeks after architect-turned-Pinterest co-founder Evan Sharp announced he was leaving the company to work on a secretive design startup LoveFrom, founded by former Apple design chief Sir Jonathan Ive.