Bespoke London Architects: DOR Architects

Introduction

DOR Architects is not just a design studio; it is a place where ideas become spaces and spaces become stories. Based in London, our studio is RIBA‑chartered and ARB‑registered, a guarantee of professional competence and ethical practicedorarch.com. What sets us apart is a commitment to immersive, bespoke design: every line we draw and every brick we place starts with your vision and ends with a carefully crafted reality. We believe in the simple yet profound principle that design should be simple, intuitive and personal, and we express that through a rigorous design process that is fully three‑dimensionaldorarch.com and deeply collaborative.

We write this page for homeowners, developers, and communities who are looking for more than a transactional architectural service. You may be planning your first home extension or envisioning a multi‑storey mixed‑use development; perhaps your organisation needs a public building that speaks to the heart of your community. Whatever your project, you are here because you seek a London architect who combines design excellence with personal service. On this page you will find an in‑depth look at who we are, how we work, and why we might be the right practice to bring your ideas to life.

Our Story and Philosophy

Architecture is both an art and a service. For us, the art lies in shaping spaces that resonate with the people who inhabit them; the service lies in guiding clients through a complex journey from idea to construction with clarity and care. DOR Architects was founded on a desire to bridge these two aspirations. We draw inspiration from the craftsmanship and careful detailing of practices like Piercy & Company and the serene, light‑filled compositions of James Gorst, yet we translate those qualities into a language that is uniquely our own.

Our philosophy is informed by three core principles:

1. Contextual Sensitivity – We believe that great design responds to its surroundings, whether that is a Georgian terrace in Islington or a contemporary plot in Southwark. Every project starts with research: the history of the site, the character of the neighbourhood, the microclimate, the patterns of use. By understanding context, we design buildings that belong to their place and enhance it.
2. Human‑Centred Design – Buildings are for people. We focus on how spaces feel, flow and function. For a family home, that might mean creating a kitchen that becomes the heart of daily life; for a commercial building, it might mean designing workspaces that foster creativity and collaboration. Our clients are intimately involved in the process – their memories, aspirations and routines inform the designdorarch.com. We listen first, design second, and refine continuously.
3. Craftsmanship and Innovation – We embrace the tactile quality of materials – the texture of reclaimed brick, the warmth of timber, the cool clarity of glass. At the same time, we innovate with advanced modelling and fabrication techniques. Our fully three‑dimensional design workflowdorarch.com allows us to explore ideas quickly, present them clearly, and adjust them in real time. By blending the analogue and the digital, we create architecture that is both timeless and forward‑looking.

The result is a portfolio of bespoke projects that range from refined residential extensions to ambitious mixed‑use developments, each project tailored to the client and the site, each one carrying our signature commitment to quality and care. With over 40 projects completed and project values spanning £100k to £4 milliondorarch.com, we have experience at multiple scales and budgets. Yet the measure of our success is not the number of projects but the relationships we build and the spaces we leave behind.

Services

For Homeowners

We understand that your home is more than a property – it is the setting for your life’s most personal moments. Whether you are dreaming of a light‑filled rear extension to open up your kitchen, a loft conversion to create a new master suite, or a garden studio for work and relaxation, our residential architects provide the expertise to turn dreams into built form.

• Extensions and Reconfigurations – Often the most transformative projects are those that unlock potential within the existing house. We specialise in house extensions, kitchen extensions, and loft conversions that respect the character of your home and respond to the way you live. We use high‑quality natural materials, careful detailing, and modern building techniques to create new spaces that feel seamless. Your extension could be a contemporary glass pavilion, a warm timber‑framed structure, or a brick addition that blends into your period house. We handle planning permission, permitted development assessments, and building regulations so that you can focus on the design.
• Outbuildings and Garden Studios – More people are looking to add flexible space to their gardens, whether as home offices, artist studios, or guest pavilions. These projects require knowledge of planning policy and creative design to achieve something unique. We design garden studios that maximise natural light and connection to the outdoors while providing year‑round comfort. Our designs range from minimal, cedar‑clad cabins to contemporary steel and glass pavilions. We ensure that your outbuilding meets or exceeds permitted development guidelines and is delivered to the highest standarddorarch.com.
• Whole‑House Renovations – Sometimes the best option is to reconfigure the whole house. We help clients rethink layouts, reposition staircases, open up dark corridors, and create better visual and physical connections. These transformations not only improve quality of life but can also add significant value to your property. We coordinate with structural engineers, specialist consultants and contractors to manage the complexity of such projects.
• Interior Design and Joinery – A beautiful home is as much about interior spaces as it is about structure. We collaborate with skilled craftspeople to design bespoke kitchens, wardrobes, and built‑in furniture. We provide lighting and colour strategies, material palettes, and fixtures selection, ensuring every element feels cohesive. Our goal is to create interiors that are timeless, functional and uniquely yours.

Why choose us? Because we design around you. Our brief development process is highly personal. We invite you to share your routines, preferences and aspirations, and we transform them into spaces that resonatedorarch.com. We also provide realistic 3D visualisations early in the process, so you can see how your extension will feel and make adjustments in real timedorarch.com.

For Developers

Our work with developers spans from boutique residential infill to large mixed‑use developments and new‑build commercial buildingsdorarch.com. We understand that every development project needs to balance aesthetics, functionality, and commercial feasibility. Our design approach is anchored in feasibility studies, market analysis, and a thorough understanding of planning policy.

• Change of Use Projects – Converting existing buildings into new uses can breathe new life into tired structures. We have experience transforming warehouses into stylish apartments, offices into co‑living schemes, and industrial buildings into creative studios. These projects require careful analysis of existing conditions and opportunities, as well as a strong narrative to secure planning consent. We work closely with planners to demonstrate the benefits of the change and how it contributes to the local area.
• Mixed‑Use Developments – Creating vibrant, sustainable communities often requires integrating residential, commercial and community uses. We design mixed‑use schemes that prioritise quality of life: active ground floors that engage with the street, apartments with ample natural light, communal gardens and rooftop amenities. Our planning strategies consider transport connections, sustainability targets, and community needs. Our designs are contextually responsive, whether the site is in the West End, Shoreditch or a suburban town centre.
• New‑Build Commercial and Residential Projects – When starting with a blank site, we enjoy exploring how a new building can make a positive impact. We craft massing studies, explore façade options and coordinate with planners early to ensure that proposals meet design guidelines and policy requirements. We incorporate sustainable strategies such as passive solar design, green roofs and high‑performance materials. We also prepare detailed viability studies that help our developer clients assess the potential return on investment.
• Feasibility Studies – Before committing to a purchase or planning application, developers need robust assessments of what a site can support. We conduct site analysis, planning research, massing diagrams and initial financial modelling to provide clarity. Our feasibility reports not only examine constraints but also identify opportunities that might not be obvious at first glance.
• Design & Build Collaboration – Many developer projects require close collaboration between the design team, contractor and client to optimise cost and time. We are experienced working within design‑and‑build frameworks, ensuring that the integrity of the design is maintained and delivered efficiently.

Our developer clients appreciate that we deliver three‑dimensional concept designs and real‑time design reviewsdorarch.com. This helps make decision‑making quicker and more informed. As RIBA‑chartered architects and ARB‑registered professionals, we provide the assurance that you are working with a practice that follows a recognised code of conductdorarch.com.

For Communities and Public Clients

Architectural projects for communities require a delicate balance between functionality, identity, and the needs of a diverse user base. We are passionate about creating spaces that enhance social cohesion and provide inclusive access to culture, learning and wellbeing.

• Public Buildings – We have experience designing libraries, community centres, and civic halls. These buildings often become social hubs; they need to be inviting, flexible and future‑proof. We develop thorough briefs with stakeholders, run engagement workshops, and design spaces that can adapt over time. Our proposals consider security, accessibility, acoustics, and sustainability.
• Community Projects – Whether it is a community garden pavilion, a youth centre, or a cultural facility, we approach each project with sensitivity to local culture and aspirations. We create participatory design processes that empower users and foster a sense of ownership. We design to foster interaction and inclusivity, creating spaces where people feel welcome and represented.
• Charity and Social Projects – Our charitable work reflects a desire to use architecture for social good. We partner with charities to deliver facilities that support vulnerable groups, from shelters to training centres. We often work on tight budgets and challenging sites, using resourcefulness and creativity to achieve high impactdorarch.com.

Community projects often require multi‑stakeholder coordination, careful phasing, and robust consultation. Our strong track record of listening and responding to varied voices ensures that the final design resonates with the community it serves. As with all our work, we provide 3D visualisations, physical models and accessible presentations so that non‑specialist stakeholders can understand proposals.

Case Studies

The Golds Building – A Multipurpose Landmark

Project Type: Mixed‑Use Commercial & Residential Development
Location: Central London
Client: Confidential Developer

The Golds Building was conceived as a multi‑purpose building over six storeys in central Londondorarch.com. The site, a former warehouse near the City, presented an opportunity to create a dynamic new urban block that accommodates retail, offices and apartments within a slender footprint. The challenge was to maximise floor area and natural light while respecting the historic context.

Our approach began with an in‑depth analysis of the surrounding fabric and sight lines. We designed a slender tower with a stepped profile, allowing sunlight to reach the street while creating terraces for the upper residential floors. The façade combines hand‑crafted brick with metal and glass panels, drawing inspiration from the warehouse vernacular but using contemporary detailing.

We used fully 3D modellingdorarch.com to evaluate multiple massing options and to generate high‑quality renderings for planning consultation. The developer and planning officers could walk through the model using VR headsets, making it easy to assess scale and shading. Inside, the flexible floor plates are designed for future adaptability: offices can be subdivided or joined, while apartments have dual aspects and generous balconies.

By anchoring the ground floor with retail and cafés, the building creates a lively streetscape. A central atrium brings natural light down through the core and acts as a community space for building users. The project demonstrates how a design can be both commercially viable and civic‑minded. It also showcases our ability to handle complex planning negotiations and deliver design excellence in a congested urban site.

The Courtyard House – A Tailored Home Extension

Project Type: Residential Extension and Reconfiguration
Location: North London
Client: Private Homeowner

Our clients came to us with a semi‑detached Victorian house that felt dark and disconnected. They wanted a spacious kitchen‑diner with a stronger link to the garden, additional bedrooms for their growing family, and a home office. We approached the project as a series of narratives: how could we create an everyday space that feels like a retreat?

We proposed a rear extension with a dramatic pitched roof. The structure is clad in hand‑made brick to match the original house, but large glazing panels and slender steel frames give it a contemporary edge. A generous rooflight runs along the ridge, bringing soft north light into the kitchen. The floor drops down to the garden level, improving the connection with the outdoors. French oak flooring flows from the living space through to the extension, creating continuity.

We reconfigured the internal layout by relocating the stair and removing partition walls. This allowed us to carve out a spacious family room on the first floor and an additional bedroom in the loft. A discreet zinc‑clad dormer provides head height and dramatic views over the treetops.

Throughout the project, our human‑centred design process meant that the homeowners were involved at every stage: from design workshops where they rearranged digital furniture on our 3D models to site visits where we discussed brick samples. They described memories of summer afternoons in French vineyards and the warm tones of old farmhouses. We reflected these emotions in the muted colour palette and natural materialsdorarch.com.

The result is a home that feels spacious, bright and deeply personal. The family describes it as a “quiet sanctuary in the city.” For us, it is a testament to the power of listening and to the value of bespoke design.

The Civic Garden Pavilion – Community Empowerment

Project Type: Community Centre
Location: East London
Client: Community Trust

In a densely populated borough with limited green space, the local community trust wanted to create a small pavilion in a public garden. The brief was ambitious: provide a space for youth programmes, workshops, and community gatherings; maximise natural light; and minimise environmental impact.

Our design is a modest, timber‑framed structure nestled among mature trees. The pavilion uses cross‑laminated timber for its structure, with large sliding glass doors that open up the interior to the garden. The roof extends beyond the walls to create a covered porch for outdoor events. A green roof planted with wildflowers supports biodiversity and provides thermal insulation.

This project shows how careful design can amplify the impact of a small budget. We engaged the community in co‑design workshops, allowing them to influence the layout and materials. The pavilion has become a beloved social hub, hosting everything from art classes to seasonal markets. It demonstrates our commitment to community projects and our belief that architecture can be a force for social gooddorarch.com.

Unique Value: Why DOR Architects?

Fully 3D and Immersive Design

At the heart of our practice is the conviction that design should be transparent and collaborative. We design all projects in 3D from the very beginningdorarch.com. This immersive modelling process allows clients to walk through their future home or building, modify layouts live, and understand the play of light and space. Rather than deciphering 2D drawings, you see your project as it will be built. This reduces surprises, accelerates decision‑making, and ensures that everyone is aligned. Our 3D models are also useful for planning applications, as they convey massing, scale and context clearly to planning officers and neighbours.

Registered & Chartered

DOR Architects is a RIBA‑chartered practice and our principal architect is registered with the ARBdorarch.com. These qualifications mean we follow a strict professional code of conduct, maintain appropriate insurance and engage in continual professional development. For clients, this is assurance of our commitment to quality, ethical practice and accountability.

Highly Reviewed and Client‑Centred

We measure our success by client satisfaction. We are proud that a significant portion of our work comes from referrals. We listen carefully to our clients’ wishes and visiondorarch.com, and we strive to make them work. We are transparent about budgets and timelines, and we communicate proactively. Our clients appreciate our passion for design and our dedication to delivering on promises. We believe that architecture is a service and that great service builds trust.

Tailored to You

No two projects are alike. Every site has unique characteristics – orientation, views, existing structures – and every client has different preferences and dreams. Our tailored approach is about uncovering these differences and letting them inform the designdorarch.com. For a homeowner, that might mean referencing childhood memories in the material palette; for a developer, it might mean emphasising a brand’s identity in the façade. We do not impose a house style. Instead, we work with you to create spaces that resonate with who you are or what your organisation stands for.

Our Design Process

Our process follows the RIBA Plan of Work, which defines stages from feasibility to construction. Each stage is an opportunity to collaborate and refine the design.

1. Stage 1 – Brief & Existing Model. We begin by discussing your vision in detail, establishing objectives, budget and timeline. We perform a measured survey, often using 3D scanning, and build a full 3D model of the existing property and its surroundingsdorarch.com. This model forms the base for all future design work. We may also conduct site analysis and research planning constraints.
2. Stage 2 – Concept Design. We explore design options in 3D. You will see sketch models, diagrams, and mood boards. We meet to review these and refine them in real timedorarch.com. At the end of this stage, we agree a preferred concept and develop initial layouts, elevations, and massing studies. This is often when we begin engaging with planning officers informally to gauge their response.
3. Stage 3 – Developed Design & Planning. We take the preferred concept and develop it into a fully resolved design with floor plans, elevations, sections and 3D renders. We coordinate with structural and services engineers. We prepare the planning submission documents: drawings, design and access statements, sustainability reports. We manage the planning application process, respond to queries, and, if necessary, revise the design.
4. Stage 4 – Technical Design. Once planning is granted, we prepare detailed construction information. This includes technical drawings, schedules, specifications and tender documentation. We coordinate with specialists (e.g., timber frame manufacturers, glazing suppliers) to integrate their systems into the design. We also prepare building control submissions.
5. Stage 5 – Construction & Handover. During construction, we act as contract administrators or employers’ agents. We chair site meetings, review the contractor’s work, and ensure compliance with design and specification. We address queries promptly and work to resolve unforeseen issues. We sign off stages and ensure that the project meets regulatory approvals. At handover, we inspect the works, prepare a snagging list, and ensure that the building is ready for occupation. We remain available post‑handover to assist with any adjustments.

This stage‑based process provides structure and clarity. It also allows flexibility; if your project needs more or less design development at any stage, we adjust accordingly. We always keep you informed of progress, and we manage the project to meet deadlines and budgets.

Sustainability and Innovation

We live in a time when sustainable design is no longer optional. As architects, we have a responsibility to reduce our buildings’ environmental impact and to design for resilience. We integrate sustainability into every stage:

• Passive Environmental Strategies – We orient buildings to maximise winter sun and shade in summer. We design deep reveals and shading devices. We use high levels of insulation, triple glazing, airtight construction, and natural ventilation strategies to reduce energy use.
• Low‑Carbon Materials – Wherever possible, we specify materials with low embodied carbon: cross‑laminated timber, reclaimed bricks, lime plasters and natural insulation. We research supply chains to ensure materials are sourced responsibly.
• Renewable Technologies – We integrate photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps, and rainwater harvesting systems. In larger projects, we work with energy consultants to model renewable systems and optimise performance.
• Biodiversity and Landscape – Roof gardens, green walls and native planting support wildlife and improve air quality. We collaborate with landscape architects to create outdoor spaces that are as thoughtfully designed as the buildings themselves.
• Longevity and Flexibility – Buildings that last longer have a lower environmental footprint. We design spaces with flexible layouts that can adapt to future needs. We choose durable materials and robust details that will age gracefully.

Our sustainability approach is not just a check‑list; it is woven into our creative process. We see environmental constraints as opportunities for innovation. Many clients now come to us specifically because of our commitment to green design.

Local Presence and Understanding

London is a city of villages, each with its own character. From the leafy streets of Hampstead and the canals of Hackney to the historic heart of Westminster and the dynamic lanes of Peckham, each area has distinct planning rules, architectural styles and community expectations. We have experience working across many boroughs and understand their nuances. Whether you need an architect in North London, a South London residential extension, or a commercial architect near the West End, we tailor our approach accordingly.

We stay up‑to‑date with local plans and strategic development frameworks. We engage with planning officers early and build relationships with them. This local knowledge helps us navigate planning constraints and harness opportunities. It also informs our design vocabulary; for instance, a project near Regent’s Park might draw on the elegance of John Nash terraces, while a project in Whitechapel might reference the industrial heritage of the East End.

Embracing Voice Search and Conversational Queries

In an increasingly digital world, potential clients search for architects in new ways. Queries like “architect near me,” “best architect in London,” or “how much does a house extension cost in London” are common. To meet these users where they are, we integrate natural‑language answers into our content, both on this page and across our blog. You will find concise answers to common questions throughout this site – for example, in the FAQ section below. These direct responses help search engines like Google provide answer boxes or voice assistant answers, improving our visibility for “architects near me” and other voice queries.

Thought Leadership and Resources

We believe in sharing knowledge. Our blog publishes articles that demystify the design process, from “Navigating Planning Permission for Loft Conversions in London” to “Designing Sustainable Home Extensions” and “How to Budget for a Mixed‑Use Development.” These pieces are written in clear language but grounded in professional experience. They answer real questions that people search for, thereby serving both our clients and the broader community.

We also produce case study reports and whitepapers that delve into specific topics – for example, “The Future of Retrofit in London Housing” and “Design Strategies for Passive House in Urban Contexts.” These longer documents attract attention from design professionals and potential clients alike, establish us as thought leaders and help build backlinks to our sitekijo.london.

We participate in lectures and panel discussions, mentor emerging architects, and engage with universities. We believe that architecture is enriched when knowledge flows freely.

Directory Listings and External Profiles

For your convenience and peace of mind, you can also find us on several reputable directories and professional platforms. We maintain an up‑to‑date Google Business Profile with our address, opening hours, project photos and client reviews. Reviews are important: they build trust and help others understand the experience of working with us. We encourage all our clients to leave honest feedback and we respond to each review thoughtfully.

We are listed on the RIBA Directory of Chartered Practices, which verifies our credentials and provides an authoritative backlink. You may also find our projects featured on sites like ArchDaily and Dezeen – these features not only showcase our work but also contribute to our online authoritykijo.london. In addition, we engage with local directories and community websites when relevant, as they help users find architects in their area and contribute to local SEOserviceworlduk.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need planning permission for a house extension in London?

In most cases, yes. Permitted development rights allow certain types of extensions without planning permission, but these rights vary by borough, property type and previous alterations. For rear extensions, there are size and height limitations. For loft conversions, volume allowances apply. If your property is in a conservation area or is listed, the rules are stricter. We begin every project by analysing planning policy and advising on whether a full application is needed. We prepare all necessary drawings, Design & Access Statements and coordinate with planning officers to maximise the chance of approval.

How much does a home extension cost?

Costs vary widely based on size, complexity, materials and specification. As a rule of thumb, simple rear extensions start around £2,500–£3,000 per square metre for construction. A high‑spec extension with bespoke joinery, extensive glazing and structural reconfiguration might be higher. Fees for architects, structural engineers and other consultants are in addition to construction costs. We provide a detailed cost plan after the concept design stage and help you prioritise elements to meet your budget.

How long does the architectural process take?

From the initial consultation to concept design typically takes 4–8 weeksdorarch.com, depending on the complexity of the brief and the number of design options explored. Planning approval can take 8–10 weeks once submitted, but may extend if revisions are required. Technical design and tendering can take 6–12 weeks. Construction durations vary – a simple extension may take 3–5 months; a larger new‑build may take a year or more. We always provide a programme at the outset and update it as the project evolves.

What services does a chartered architect provide?

Chartered architects provide a complete service from initial ideas to completion. This includes developing the brief, site analysis, concept and detailed design, planning applications, technical drawings, tendering, contract administration and overseeing construction. Chartered architects follow the RIBA Plan of Work and abide by the ARB Code of Conductdorarch.com, ensuring professionalism, competence and accountability.

How can DOR Architects help with sustainability?

We integrate sustainability into every project. This includes passive design, low‑carbon materials, renewable technologies, and biodiversity enhancements. We can help you achieve certifications such as BREEAM or Passivhaus. We believe that sustainable design enhances comfort, reduces operational costs and adds long‑term value.

Do you work outside London?

Yes. While our primary focus is architecture in London. Our experience with urban sites translates well to projects in other cities and rural areas. If you have a project outside London, please contact us to discuss how we can help.

What is the next step if I want to start a project?

Contact us for an initial consultation. We will discuss your ideas, answer your questions, and explain our process and fees. If your project is a good fit, we will prepare a tailored proposal. Our goal is to make the journey from idea to finished building as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Contact Us

If you are looking for a bespoke architecture practice that delivers high‑quality residential extensions, mixed‑use developments, or community projects in London and beyond, we would love to hear from you. You can reach us by phone or email, or book a call through our website. We are also available via WhatsApp and social media. Our studio is located in central London – we welcome visitors by appointment.

• Address: [Studio Address, London – by appointment only]
• Phone: [020 XXX XXXX]
• Email: [studio@dorarch.com]
• Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 6.00pm

Our Google Business Profile contains up‑to‑date information, directions and client reviews. Please feel free to explore it and leave us a review after your project.

Conclusion

At DOR Architects, we believe that architecture should elevate everyday life, respect its context, and inspire those who experience it. We combine world‑class design, cutting‑edge 3D technologydorarch.com, and deep local knowledge to deliver projects that are both beautiful and practical. We are proud of our track recorddorarch.com and the trust our clients place in us. We look forward to working with you to create spaces that tell your story.