Every Square Metre Counts — But Character Comes First
West Hampstead is one of those rare London neighbourhoods where density and liveability coexist. Beautiful housing stock, leafy sidestreets, a strong community feel — and just enough planning control to keep things interesting.
We understand how to design in that environment. Whether you’re opening up a mansion block flat, adding a rear extension on Iverson Road, or exploring a mews plot behind a Victorian terrace, DOR Architects brings the insight, tools and creativity to unlock your project.
We design with the calm confidence that comes from years of navigating Camden planning, Conservation Areas, and the unique constraints of West Hampstead’s dense residential fabric.
“The brief? ‘We want a home that feels like a penthouse — but it’s a two-bedroom flat on the ground floor of a Victorian conversion.’ That’s West Hampstead: ambition, tight plots, and thoughtful execution.”
Where We Work in West Hampstead
We help private clients and developers across:
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West End Lane, Iverson Road & Broadhurst Gardens: Flat conversions, rear extensions and internal reconfigurations
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Lymington, Sherriff & Cotleigh Roads: Side returns and lofts in Conservation Areas
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Backland and mews sites: Infill developments and live/work conversions
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Mansion blocks & subdivided townhouses: Elegant internal layouts, M&E coordination and sensitive retrofits
From classic conversions to clever new-build insertions, we design spaces that feel generous, even when the footprint is tight.
Planning in West Hampstead: What You Should Know
Camden Council takes planning seriously — especially in NW6. The borough’s local plan, Conservation Area guidelines, and Article 4 directions shape what’s possible.
Key planning considerations in West Hampstead include:
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Conservation Area status on many sidestreets
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Flat conversion controls around unit size, access and outdoor space
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Extensions and roof additions often needing full planning approval
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Mews and infill plots subject to privacy, daylight and amenity constraints
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Mansion block restrictions, particularly for structural or façade changes
We help our clients understand where the lines are — and how to design confidently within them.
Why Choose DOR Architects in NW6?
Because great architecture in tight urban areas isn’t about cramming in square metres. It’s about unlocking spatial quality and long-term liveability.
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3D BIM design from the outset for smarter decision-making
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Deep planning experience with Camden Council
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Contextual, refined design that balances creativity with discretion
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Interiors that flow beautifully within heritage constraints
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Trusted by homeowners and developer clients across West Hampstead
We speak the language of planners, contractors and clients — and we design spaces that work in the real world.
Our Process
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Feasibility & Planning Advice
We evaluate your site or flat, assess what’s realistic, and build a plan from there. -
Planning Application
From design drawings to access statements and heritage support, we handle the process smoothly and strategically. -
Technical Design & Interiors
Everything coordinated — structure, MEP, joinery, lighting — so you can build with certainty and clarity. -
Construction Support
We remain involved on site to answer queries, keep things aligned, and deliver the space you signed off — not a watered-down version.
Let’s Make the Most of Your West Hampstead Property
Whether you’re remodelling a flat, extending a home, or planning a boutique scheme — we’ll help you design something beautiful, practical and permission-ready.
We’ll bring the planning insight and design intelligence your West Hampstead project deserves.
FAQs – West Hampstead Planning & Architecture
It greatly depends — and you’ll need planning permission and possibly freeholder consent. We’ll review feasibility and advise you on the process.
Rarely. Most streets fall within Article 4 areas or Conservation Areas. Even lofts or rear extensions typically need full planning.
It depends. Infill development is tightly controlled but possible with the right scale, massing, and privacy strategies. We’ve done it before — and can assess yours.
Yes. In fact, it’s one of our specialties — especially in constrained, split-level or multi-occupancy buildings common in NW6.