Quietly Ambitious. Just Like the Area.
Finchley is a part of London that builds with intent. It’s not showy. It’s not speculative. It’s made up of families looking to grow into their homes — and developers who see opportunity in overlooked plots.
At DOR Architects, we help both.
We bring design rigour and planning experience to projects across N2, N3 and N12 — whether it’s extending a 1930s semi, reconfiguring a mews house in East Finchley, or unlocking a two-house scheme on a garden plot.
Our work is grounded in buildability, refined through design, and always delivered in full 3D. That means fewer surprises and better conversations — with clients, planners, and contractors.
“We once worked with a couple in West Finchley who wanted to do ‘a little kitchen tweak.’ Four months later, we had planning permission for a full rear extension, loft, and garden studio. Turns out, ambition doesn’t need to shout to be heard.”
Where We Work in Finchley
We work across all Finchley neighbourhoods, including:
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East Finchley (N2): Side returns, infill plots, and rear extensions in Conservation Areas
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North Finchley (N12): Full-home refurbishments, roof conversions, and replacement dwellings
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Finchley Central & West Finchley (N3): Developer-led new builds, subdivided gardens, and mews-style insertions
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Woodside Park & Church End: Larger homes with scope for creative extensions and long-term upgrades
We’re familiar with Barnet Council’s planning policies and how they play out in the different Finchley wards.
Planning in Finchley: What You Should Know
Planning in Finchley is shaped by its varied housing stock and tight-knit neighbourhoods. Some roads are wide and permissive; others are highly controlled.
Key local planning issues include:
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Conservation Areas in parts of East Finchley
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Garden development restrictions under Barnet’s local plan
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Permitted development exceptions due to Article 4 directions
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Neighbour amenity and outlook concerns on semi-detached plots
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Flat conversion limits depending on size, location, and access
We’ve worked with Barnet’s planners for years. We know how to frame an application to give it the best chance — and when to pivot if needed.
Why Choose DOR Architects in Finchley?
We’re not in the business of generic drawings. We’re here to design homes and buildings that feel considered, contextual — and complete.
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BIM-led 3D design for clarity and client confidence
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Deep knowledge of Barnet Council’s planning system
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Design that balances ambition with restraint
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Build-aware detailing that keeps costs under control
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Personalised service from early sketches to site support
We work with both homeowners and developers across Finchley to unlock the full potential of their sites and buildings.
Our Process
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Feasibility & Vision
We assess your home or site — identifying constraints and creative opportunities. -
Planning Applications
We prepare persuasive submissions with clear drawings and evidence of local precedent. -
Technical Design
We develop full detail and coordination packages — so your build team doesn’t need to guess. -
On-Site Support
We remain involved through tendering and site stages, resolving issues and protecting your vision.
Ready to Build in Finchley?
Whether you’re looking to extend, redevelop, or make a first move on a potential site — we can help you realise the full potential of your property in N2, N3 or N12.
Tell us about your project — and we’ll tell you what’s possible.
FAQs – Finchley Architectural Advice
It depends on size, location, and whether your road is subject to Article 4 restrictions. We’ll help you determine what’s allowed and what’s best.
Possibly. Backland development is tightly controlled in Finchley but can be achieved with careful design, privacy strategies, and good access.
Yes, particularly around The Bishop’s Avenue and some pockets near Fortis Green. These affect materials, massing, and window arrangements.
Absolutely. We tailor our process to suit the client — whether it’s a family home renovation or a 3-unit residential development.