Architectural Services in London

If you’ve ever tried to renovate a flat in Hampstead, extend a Victorian terrace in Islington, or convert a shopfront in Camden, you’ll know this: London is never straightforward. Every borough has its own rules, every street its own quirks, and every project its own surprises. What looks like a simple side-return extension can quickly become a marathon of planning policies, neighbour negotiations, and building regulations.

That’s where we come in.

At DOR Architects, we see architecture as a journey, not just a set of drawings. Whether you’re a developer seeking maximum uplift or a family in Golders Green wanting more space for everyday life, our services are designed to guide you smoothly from first sketch to final build. We combine design quality at the level of London’s leading studios with a personal, approachable way of working. And because everything we do starts in 3D, you’ll see your project clearly before a brick is laid.

We split our offering into three core services — architectural design, planning applications, and technical drawings — with add-on services for interiors and build supervision when you need extra support. Think of it as a menu: you can order the full tasting menu or just the courses you need most.

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Our Approach – Architecture Made Clear

Architecture in London can sometimes feel like smoke and mirrors. Some practices speak in riddles, others hand you drawings that resemble hieroglyphics. We prefer to keep things simple.

Our philosophy is straightforward:

• Design-led but practical – thoughtful, refined architecture that also works on site.
• 3D-first – immersive models that let you see and understand your project.
• Cost-aware – beautiful design that respects budget and buildability.

This clarity is why our clients — from Hampstead homeowners to Barnet developers — trust us to deliver projects that look good, work well, and get approved.

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Architectural Design – From Survey to Concept

Every project starts with design, and design is more than drawing lines on a page. We begin with a measured survey, then translate your ideas into fully modelled 3D concepts. Instead of squinting at flat plans, you’ll see how light pours into your new living space, how a reconfigured staircase changes the flow of your home, or how a block of apartments feels from street level.

This isn’t just for show. 3D design is a decision-making tool. It allows you to compare options, explore feasibility, and catch potential issues before they become expensive mistakes. Developers rely on it for quick viability studies; families love it because it brings ideas to life.

Typical questions we help answer at this stage include:

• “Is my house suitable for a loft conversion?”
• “Can I add a basement in North London clay?”
• “How many units can I fit on this site?”

By the end of design, you’ll have a clear vision of what’s possible — and the confidence to take the next step.

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Planning Applications – Permission Without the Pain

London’s planning system can feel like a maze. Each borough has its quirks: Camden scrutinises heritage, Barnet worries about overlooking, Islington insists on context, Westminster involves multiple committees. And that’s before you encounter conservation areas, listed buildings, or the ever-watchful eyes of neighbours.

We’ve spent years navigating this landscape. Our planning service includes:

• Pre-application advice and feasibility studies.
• Full planning applications, prepared and submitted on your behalf.
• Design & Access Statements, heritage reports, and supporting documents.
• Negotiations with planning officers.
• Responses to objections and amendments when required.

Because we understand the expectations of London’s boroughs, we anticipate challenges before they arise. Our applications are packaged to be robust, persuasive, and tailored to their context.

Typical queries we help with:

• “Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in Camden?”
• “Can I extend my Victorian terrace under permitted development in Barnet?”
• “What’s the chance of approval for a mixed-use scheme in Finchley?”

The result? Less stress for you, and a higher chance of hearing the magic words: “Permission granted.”

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Technical Drawings & Building Regulations

Securing planning permission is only half the journey. The next stage is detail — turning your approved design into a buildable project.

Our technical drawing packs include:

• Full Building Regulations compliance.
• Detailed construction drawings and specifications.
• Tender sets for contractors.
• Coordination with engineers, surveyors, and specialists.

Because we have a strong construction background, we don’t design fantasy. We design buildings that can be built, on budget and on programme. Contractors regularly tell us our drawings are among the clearest they’ve seen — which saves you time, money, and frustration on site.

Typical queries we answer here:

• “What insulation do I need to meet London’s energy standards?”
• “Can my foundations handle a rear extension?”
• “How do I get Building Control sign-off?”

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Add-On Services

Not every project stops at planning and drawings. That’s why we offer add-on services to give you complete peace of mind.

Interior Design

Great architecture deserves interiors to match. Our interior design service ensures the inside feels as considered as the outside. From bespoke joinery to lighting design, we create interiors that are elegant, functional, and personal to you.

Contract Administration & Build Supervision

Even the best drawings need good management on site. Our contract administration service keeps your project on track during construction. We act as your representative, monitoring quality, certifying payments, and resolving disputes before they escalate.

For busy developers, this means sharper cost control and fewer delays. For homeowners, it means peace of mind that your dream project is delivered as promised.

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The London Landscape

London is a patchwork of property types: Georgian terraces in Bloomsbury, Edwardian semis in Finchley, post-war maisonettes in Kilburn, and contemporary flats in Hackney. Each comes with quirks — thin party walls, restrictive covenants, or outdated services.

We’ve worked across this variety. We know how to handle:

• Loft conversions in conservation areas.
• Side-return extensions in narrow North London plots.
• Basement digs in clay-heavy Hampstead soils.
• Shop-to-flat conversions on mixed-use high streets.
• Multi-unit developments with complex planning histories.

This local knowledge makes our designs not just beautiful, but believable to planners — and buildable on site.

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Why Choose DOR Architects?

London has no shortage of architects. But few combine high-calibre design with practical know-how quite like we do.

• Design pedigree — our work is as thoughtful and refined as London’s leading studios.
• Construction expertise — we design things that can actually be built.
• Personal service — boutique attention, not faceless corporate process.
• Developer focus — strategies that maximise ROI and value uplift.
• Homeowner empathy — spaces that feel crafted for the way you live.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or embarking on your first renovation, we make the journey clear, enjoyable, and rewarding.

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Step-by-Step: How We Work

1. Initial Consultation – A conversation about your ambitions, constraints, and possibilities.
2. Measured Survey – Accurate records of your existing property or site.
3. Concept Design – 3D models and options to bring your ideas to life.
4. Planning Application – Submissions tailored to your borough.
5. Technical Design – Building regulations, detailed drawings, and tender packs.
6. Build Supervision (optional) – Contract administration and site monitoring to ensure delivery.

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FAQs

Do I need an architect for a small extension?
Yes. In London, where planning rules are strict and space is precious, a good architect adds value far beyond their fee.

How much does an architect in London cost?
Fees vary depending on scope. We keep ours transparent and often structure them stage by stage, so you can commit gradually.

Do you only work in North London?
North and North-West London are our home ground — Hampstead, Barnet, Finchley, Camden — but we work across the capital.

Can you help with listed buildings?
Yes. We have experience with listed assets, conservation areas, and heritage consent, including liaising with Historic England.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Some lofts fall under permitted development, but many London properties — especially in conservation areas — require permission. We’ll confirm for your property.

What’s the difference between planning and building regulations?
Planning decides what you can build. Building regulations decide how it must be built. We handle both.

Can you oversee the builder during construction?
Yes — through our contract administration service. It ensures quality is maintained and payments are fair.

How long does the process take?
Design takes a few weeks, planning usually 8–12 weeks, technical another 6–8. Build times vary with scope.

Do you only work on houses?
No. We design flats, multi-unit developments, and mixed-use projects across London.

Why should I choose a London architect?
Because every borough has its quirks. Experience with London planning, construction, and property types makes all the difference.

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Let’s Talk

Whether you’re sketching ideas on the back of an envelope or preparing a major development, we’d love to hear about your project.

Get in touch with our London studio today — and let’s explore what’s possible.

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Disclaimer: This page provides general information only and should not be taken as legal or professional advice. Always seek tailored guidance for your specific project.