Has my architect got experience in this borough?
London borough architects
If you live in a London borough where there are specific regulations around the extension or improvement of your property, you need to know that the architect you’re working with knows what they’re doing. Residents of boroughs such as Hampstead or Kensington and Chelsea must adhere to specific guidelines when carrying out home improvements, ensuring that their developments retain the character and spirit of the locale. As such, you’ll need an architect who is familiar with these guidelines, and who can design something you love while ensuring the planning application will be approved.
Developing your home is central to your living experience. Whether it’s adding an extra bedroom, creating a home office, or converting a garage, your project will have a positive impact on your day to day life. The build process takes several months, so ensuring that planning is approved swiftly means you won’t have unnecessary delays. That’s where an experienced London architect with comparable projects in their portfolio can prove invaluable. So how do you check that your chosen architect has experience in your borough?
Ask your architect directly
When hiring a London architect, it’s always worth asking what experience they have of planning and overseeing projects in your borough. Try to determine how many planning applications they have submitted in your locale, and what their success rate has been. A good architect will understand the requirements of the area and be able to provide drawings that meet your needs and preferences while also satisfying the planning office.
Browse their portfolio
Experienced architects for luxury homes in London will showcase their work. Check the website of the firms you’re considering to see if any of their previous projects align with your needs. Find examples of work they’ve completed in your borough or those nearby, and you’ll get a sense of the style and quality of their work. It will also give you an idea of what is possible within the limits of the local regulations.
Discuss your ideas
Having a conversation with the architect before appointing them is a great way to get a feel for their experience in your area. A firm that’s a good fit will be able to advise what will work and what you may struggle to get planning permission for. Good architects will be able to offer creative solutions to problems too. The conversation should allow you to feel confident and enlightened about the project – if not, they may not have the experience they claim to have.
If you’re looking for an experienced London architect with an extensive portfolio and knowledge of a range of London boroughs, contact The Architects of London today. With offices in Kensington, Chiswick, Romford and Hampstead, we often work on projects where there is specific guidance to follow, and can ensure your plans have the best possible chance of being approved. Get in touch to turn your vision into a reality.
