Suburban Potential with a Sharp Edge

Whetstone is changing. It’s no longer just the quieter neighbour of Totteridge. With excellent schools, Tube access and large suburban plots, it’s become a magnet for families upgrading long-term homes — and developers seeking viable, policy-friendly sites.

At DOR Architects, we understand both sides. Whether you’re expanding your forever home, converting a tired bungalow, or exploring a small backland development, we bring thoughtful design and smart planning strategy from day one.

We know what Barnet Council looks for — and we know how to design architecture that improves both space and value.

“The client in Whetstone had lived in the same 1930s house for 30 years. ‘We want to future-proof it,’ she said. What she really meant was: make it generous, light and beautiful — without moving.”

Where We Work in Whetstone

We serve clients throughout N20, including:

  • Oakleigh Park South & Athenaeum Road: Rear and wraparound extensions, full-house refurbishments and lofts

  • Friern Barnet Lane & Russel Lane: Infill plots, developer-led conversions and permitted development studies

  • Whetstone High Road: Mixed-use schemes, shopfront refurbishments and residential intensification

  • Backland & corner sites: Design-led feasibility studies for one to four-unit residential developments

We work with families, investors and boutique developers — and tailor our approach to the scale and ambition of each project.

See other areas we work in

Planning in Whetstone: What You Should Know

Barnet Council oversees planning in Whetstone and takes a detailed, design-aware approach to suburban change. Key issues include:

  • Extensions and conversions constrained by daylighting, overlooking and massing

  • Subdivision and flat conversions subject to amenity and space standards

  • Backland and infill plots requiring design justification and neighbour protection

  • Green corridor and tree retention policies along certain residential boundaries

  • Permitted development limitations near Conservation Area thresholds

We don’t guess. We check precedent, test policy, and advise you on what’s really achievable.

Visit Barnet's Planning Portal

Why Choose DOR Architects for Whetstone Projects?

Because we understand the difference between simply extending — and transforming — a property. We bring:

  • Thoughtful, high-quality design tailored to suburban scale

  • Strong local planning knowledge with Barnet Council

  • 3D BIM modelling for clarity and coordinated design from the outset

  • Buildable details and cost-aware design suitable for homeowners and developers alike

  • Full-service support, from feasibility to planning to construction

We believe your Whetstone home should work hard — and look good doing it.

Our Process

  1. Feasibility & Planning Strategy
    We begin with a measured assessment of what’s viable, what adds value, and how best to approach planning.

  2. Design & Planning Submissions
    We develop designs in 3D and prepare all supporting materials for smooth submissions to Barnet Council.

  3. Detailed Design & Coordination
    From kitchen layouts to roof junctions — every element is drawn with care and construction in mind.

  4. Construction Oversight
    We stay close through the build, supporting your team and protecting the original design intent.

How we can help

Let’s Start Your Whetstone Project

Whether you’re redesigning your home for family life or developing a discrete new build, we’ll help you plan and design with clarity, confidence and creativity.

Work with architects who understand how to get the most from Whetstone’s space, scale and setting.

Start your project?
* This page is intended for general guidance and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult a qualified architect or planner before making design or development decisions.

FAQs – Whetstone Architecture & Planning

Yes possibly — but it depends on your property type, previous alterations and street context. We’ll help you check and advise you on both PD and full planning options.

Sometimes. We work with clients to test backland or side plot viability and have secured planning for low-impact, high-quality additional dwellings.

Absolutely. Many homes in Whetstone benefit from better flow, sightlines and daylight — even without adding extra footprint.

Yes. We help both private clients and small developers with design, policy alignment, and planning applications for new homes across Whetstone and beyond.

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