For developers & investors
Commercial to residential conversion architects in London
DOR Architects is a RIBA Chartered practice in Golders Green, NW11. We help developers and owners turn commercial buildings into homes, and judge early how much planning risk a scheme carries. Having run a construction firm for over a decade, we produce drawings contractors can price accurately.
Feasibility & 3D massing
We model the building and test layouts, so you see what a site or building could achieve before you buy or commit.
Office to residential (Class MA)
Many commercial buildings can become homes under Class MA. Prior approval is still required, and the council checks things like light, noise and flood risk.
Change of use & full planning
Where permitted development doesn't apply, we build the planning case, including pre-application advice where it helps.
Flats in existing buildings
Splitting houses or upper floors into flats that meet London's minimum space standards.
Does an office conversion need planning permission?
Not always full planning. Class MA lets many commercial, business and service buildings become homes through prior approval, a shorter process. It doesn't cover listed buildings, and Article 4 directions in parts of London remove it. Every new home must meet national space standards and have adequate natural light. We check which route fits before you spend on drawings.
How many flats could my building take?
Try our flat capacity checker for a rough range from the floor area, then we test real layouts in 3D. See also our site feasibility and planning services for developers.
Assessing a building?
Send us the address and what you're considering. We'll reply with next steps, usually within one working day.