Highgate Architects
Topics: architects, extensions, highgate, home
Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Author: Amrit Marway, Architect, AA Dipl RIBA
ARB registration no. 077479K
Amrit is currently leading a sensitive refurbishment and basement extension to a historic detached house in Chelsea. She has considerable experience working on residential projects in London and has recently designed a housing-led regeneration scheme in Barking and Dagenham.
Contact me: 020 3637 4236
Introduction
We are experienced Highgate architects specialising in residential refurbishment and extension projects.
Architecture for London has several residential projects in Highgate Village and in the borough of Camden more widely. These include at The Grove N6, Archway Road N6, Dartmouth Park Hill NW5 and Talbot Road N6. At The Grove, in the Highgate Conservation Area, we are refurbishing and extending a Grade II listed Georgian corner house in the centre of the village.
Known for its picturesque village-like charm and historic character, Highgate features a variety of period properties. These range from early Georgian homes in the centre of the village to some outstanding mid-20th-century architect-designed homes. Today, Highgate is recognised as one of London’s most popular urban villages, surrounded by green spaces such as Hampstead Heath and Highgate Wood, offering both natural beauty and architectural interest.
A new kitchen by Plain English at our Gainsborough Gardens project.
Highgate architects: our recent projects
On Archway Road, N6, we have completed a development at a Victorian property, converting a house into three flats with a new extension into the garden at the rear. Planning consent was received despite the property being in the Highgate Conservation Area. The extension to the ground and lower ground floor creates a duplex garden flat. The upper parts will be accessed from the main stairwell, leading to a two-bedroom flat at first floor and a one-bedroom flat with a vaulted roof on the second floor.
We have also completed a complex refurbishment and extension of a large Victorian home within the Dartmouth Park conservation area. This project involved retrofitting the property with double-glazed windows and installing high-performing insulation, resulting in improved energy efficiency. Our role included managing the planning approval process to ensure all proposed works complied with the conservation area design guidance.
As part of the internal refurbishments, we reconfigured the ground floor to create an open-plan kitchen and dining area, enhancing natural light and flow throughout the space. This design approach modernised the social spaces of the house while respecting original features. We also installed underfloor heating and energy-efficient appliances throughout, further reducing the home’s energy consumption and supporting a more sustainable lifestyle for the residents.
A modern rear extension to a house in a conservation area on Tanza Road.Another Highgate project saw the extension of a mid-century home. The project involved a single-storey rear extension to enhance the living space. The original features were carefully restored, and the existing building fabric was repaired, with brickwork for the rear extension matching the original property. The basement was improved to allow space for two bedrooms and a family bathroom.
At Talbot Road, also in the Highgate conservation area, we are extending a maisonette to the rear and improving the view toward the garden.
Types of planning applications in Highgate
- Full planning application – needed if undertaking major work, such as new build homes and works on multiple dwellings.
- Householder planning applications – these offer a simplified process for homeowners to renovate or enlarge a single home. This process does not apply to flats or change of use applications. Householder planning permission is required for projects such as rear extensions, loft conversions, or other alterations not covered by permitted development rights.
- Change of use applications – if converting a commercial property into residential or vice versa, you may need to apply for a change of use application.
Applications for new developments must align with the London Plan carbon reduction targets. By integrating sustainability into design, projects can meet carbon targets whilst also creating more comfortable environments for occupants. Highgate architects should also embrace sustainable practices when retrofitting period buildings. It is important to use natural, breathable materials when insulating these properties.
A sketch for a kitchen in ash and travertine, in a Grade II listed house in The Grove, N6.
Architects in Highgate: building in conservation areas
The Highgate Conservation Area is a designated protected area, where most external alterations to properties will require permission from the local authority. This is to preserve the existing character and streetscape of Highgate and ensure new developments are sympathetic to the existing context.
Key characteristics of the Highgate conservation area include:
- Historic architecture: such as Georgian townhomes, Victorian villas, and Arts and Crafts homes. Conservation policies help to maintain the historic features and architectural integrity of these properties.
- Green spaces: Highgate is connected to Hampstead Heath and Waterlow Park, which contribute to its rural feel.
- Streetscape character: Highgate has narrow lanes, cobbled paths and unique shopfronts. There are policies controlling unsympathetic new materials and inappropriate retail signage.
A large rear extension to a house near Highgate Village, on Dartmouth Park Hill.
Discover Architecture for London’s project portfolio. If you are seeking Highgate architects for your project, please contact us.
In order to protect the area’s character, planning permission will not be granted to change, expand, or intensify uses that could harm the conservation area. Consent is needed to make the following changes to your home in the Highgate Conservation Area:
- Changing windows, external doors, and gates
- Installing CCTV cameras or satellite dishes
- Converting a loft with dormer windows
- Extensions of over 3m from the back of a house (or 4m for a detached house)
- Extensions of more than one storey
A more extensive list can be found in your conservation area guidance. Applicants must submit detailed proposals to the relevant local authority based on the property’s location in the conservation area. This will be either Camden or Haringey.
The Highgate Society is also notified of all planning applications submitted within their area of interest, and they may comment on the proposals.
Highgate architects: a visual for a kitchen in ash and smoked oak, in a Grade II listed house in The Grove, N6.
Listed buildings and alterations
Highgate contains many heritage buildings that reflect its history and ties with notable historic figures. One such building is the Lauderdale house, a Grade II listed property dating back to the 16th century. Highgate’s other Grade I and II listed residential properties are often found in the streets near Highgate Village, Hampstead Lane, and Highgate West Hill. These homes often feature period detailing such as stucco facades, cornicing and decorative ironwork. All alterations to such listed buildings will require consent.
Listed buildings are a key part of Highgate’s character. It’s important to consider the historic features of your home when planning to undertake extensions. Key planning considerations will include wall and roofing materials, window detailing and ensuring that the extension is subservient to the host building.
Highgate architects: rear extension to a house in Talbot Road, N6, with fluted Carrara marble fireplace
Summary
Highgate is one of London’s most popular urban villages. Extensions to homes in its conservation area or to its listed buildings should be carefully considered. This is to ensure that the proposals are policy compliant, to give them the best chance of receiving consent.
Architecture for London has significant experience with sensitive refurbishments and extensions in Highgate. Our projects often balance new contemporary alterations with preserving the historic built environment that makes the area so unique.
Discover Architecture for London’s projects. If you are looking for Highgate architects and would like to discuss your project, please contact us.