Architecture for London is seeking a planning consultant to join its London-based team. We work on a range of projects across central London, with a focus on private homes. Environmental impact is a key consideration in our work. We work toward Passivhaus standards of comfort and low energy, creating sustainable homes. The ideal candidate should […]
OSM and modular construction are approaches to building where components are manufactured off-site, then delivered and assembled on site. Components typically include wall, roof or floor panels or even complete rooms. Whilst these construction methods have historically been used widely on larger scale projects, OSM processes and technologies have now developed and are becoming cost-effective, therefore being suitable for use on smaller developments and even single home residential schemes…
Planning application costs can vary substantially depending on the nature of the consent sought. This article explains the costs of each type of application and also outlines project-specific consultant fees…
A ‘listed building’ is a building or structure that is of national importance due to its architectural or historic interest. It is included on a special register: the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest…
Our existing housing stock poses a challenge as we nationally aim towards the ‘2050 net-zero’ carbon emissions target, which aims to limit global heating to 1.5 degrees. The buildings we refurbish now are not likely to be refurbished again before 2050, so they must achieve net zero standards now. This net zero goal can be […]
Architecture for London has completed a number of bespoke homes in Kensington and Chelsea. Our architects have expertise in the particular planning requirements of the borough, of which 70 per cent is protected…
A construction phase plan (CPP) is part of the process of mitigating risk and issues that may arise in construction projects. It helps the contractor prepare for correct health and safety procedures to be followed on site. View our projects page to see our recent work, or contact us on 020 3637 4236 to discuss your project. By […]
Architects, engineers, builders and other professionals within the built environment have been working under the banner of progressive sustainability for some time now – but we have done just that: sustained and maintained the status quo. The construction industry now desperately needs to achieve net zero. To remain on the current trajectory, where lip-service is […]
This article discusses how to start a cohousing group, from deciding your values and community type at the outset, to assessing the funding available and finding land. Cohousing is a method of creating new homes based on values determined by the future residents to establish a certain way of life. By focusing on the specific […]
A planning performance agreement (PPA) is a tool used by the local planning authority (LPA) to help manage planning applications. They are typically used for major applications, which are larger scale or more complex projects, although they may also be suitable for simpler projects in some cases. The PPA is a formal framework agreement between […]
Architect’s services can vary significantly depending on the size and type of project and the specific requirements of the client. This article outlines all of the architectural services provided by Architecture for London. For private residential work such as house extensions, an architect’s role can cover all areas of the project, from briefing to contract […]
Our maisonette extension and refurbishment in north London has been featured in several blogs and exhibitions this month, including Domus, Leibal, Afasia and the Don’t Move Improve 2019 awards. The project was for boutique stationer Neil and graphic designer Mark. The property was reconfigured and extended, and a rear toilet block demolished to create a series […]
When extending your home its often assumed that you will need planning consent. However, not all development requires planning permission. In some instances, extensions are allowed under national permitted development rights. This article discusses the benefits of designing a house extension that complies with permitted development (PD) legislation, as an alternative to seeking planning consent. Rather […]
This article highlights the key considerations when undertaking a basement extension project, from appointing an architect to designing the spaces and gaining planning consents. A basement extension can create new rooms with unique qualities. From an architectural perspective, subterranean spaces may not be perfect for a kitchen or dining room due to reduced natural light and views. […]
This house lies on a mid-century modern estate in Holland Park by celebrated architects Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew. Built in 1966, the estate features red brick terraces with integrated garages and generous communal gardens. View Architecture for London’s portfolio of recent residential projects. The project included a rear extension in matching brick, internal refurbishment […]
When trying to find a suitable design firm, many people search online for ‘architects near me’ to find a practice that is close to their property or site. A location-based search may be a sensible approach for smaller projects where the design requirements are relatively straightforward. Such projects might include a modest extension to an […]
Are you considering building a basement in London but unsure if it’s worth the disruption and financial investment? In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive analysis and breakdown of factors that affect basement costs in London. The limitations on above-ground extensions in many conservation areas and sensitive locations in London mean that […]
Hackney Terrace is a proposal for the Peabody Trust, with a series of dwellings in East London conceived as a ‘miniature terrace’. The site is a narrow strip of land behind a Victorian terrace, currently occupied by garages. View Architecture for London’s portfolio of recent residential projects. The front elevation of each proposed house is […]
The mix of culture, heritage, rules and regulations in London’s built environment makes our city one of the most challenging locations to purchase the right property, obtain planning permission and build your dream home. This article highlights the benefits of using London architecture firms and explains the importance of looking for local experience when selecting […]
Conservation areas are places that are deemed to be of special architectural or historic interest, and they require management to protect their specific character. Every local authority in England has at least one conservation area….
Architecture for London has been appointed to design a cohousing scheme in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. The development will create ten sustainable new homes with a carbon-negative cross laminated timber structure, built to passivhaus standards. Our architectural approach is inspired by George Devey, an architect working in Aylesbury in the Victorian period. Devey favoured a romantic style, […]
Kitchen extensions are a valuable way to improve your home, both for you and your family’s enjoyment and for potential resale in future. Current lifestyles generally call for more open plan living, connections to outdoor spaces and a greater feeling of space and light…
Loft conversions create additional habitable rooms in your home. These can be ideal for a new bedroom, playroom, home cinema or bathroom. This article discusses loft conversion costs in London and highlights the various design options available. Many properties in the UK are suitable for loft conversions. Often the changes do not require planning permission as […]
Large or small? If you are looking for an architect, you may be wondering which direction to take. There are many different sizes of firms, each catering to different types or sizes of project. So how do you know which option is for you…
Many of London’s 19th and early 20th century properties have an original brick ‘extension’ to the rear. These are particularly common on terraced and semi-detached properties. A side return extension infills the space to the side of the original ‘extension’ and is one of the most popular ways of improving and extending your home…
If challenges are found early, they don’t remain challenging for long. Through a process of mapping options, risks, challenges and opportunities – developers can ensure that a scheme is viable and appealing to the market. The feasibility study is a key part of this process. This article provides an overview of feasibility studies and their […]
The RIBA Plan of Work is a document that outlines all stages in a building project, from conception to realisation in built form. The plan is written for, and used by architects. As a consequence, it may not be easily digestible for all clients. This introductory guide to the stages of work will help you navigate the document. It aims to explain the involvement…
Finding a list of potential architects is often the first step in the journey of a building project. This journey can be a long one, with a relationship that will last for a year or more, and will involve significant cost. Taking time to find the right practice is, therefore, a worthwhile investment. Various approaches are available to help you find an architect, these include…
This article explores house extension ideas for London properties. The chosen approach will very much depend on your aspirations, your style and the design of the existing house. Many of the options are explored below, with illustrated examples from Architecture for London’s house extension projects. As a first step, it is a good idea to create your own mood board of house extension ideas using sites like Pinterest….