Frequently Asked Questions

What residential architectural services do you offer in London and Essex?

We provide a comprehensive range of residential architectural services, from initial design concepts through to planning submission.

Our services can include:

• Initial consultations and project advice
• Feasibility and planning assessments
• Architectural design
• Existing and proposed measured drawings
• Planning drawings
• Planning applications
• Permitted Development and Prior Approval applications
• Lawful Development Certificates
• Building Regulations drawings
• Design development and technical information
• Coordination with consultants and contractors

Our approach is tailored to each property and project, with consideration given to local planning policies, site constraints and the requirements of the relevant Local Planning Authority.

Can you help me with planning permission for my house extension or loft conversion?

Yes. We can advise on the most appropriate planning route for your project and prepare the architectural information required for the application. Depending on the proposal, this may involve Permitted Development, Prior Approval, a Lawful Development Certificate, a Householder Planning Application or a Full Planning Application.

We consider factors such as the property’s planning history, location, size and design, as well as Conservation Area and Article 4 restrictions where applicable. We can also coordinate the planning submission and assist with planning queries during the application process where this is included within your appointment.

Do I always need planning permission for an extension or loft conversion?

Not necessarily. Some residential extensions, loft conversions and other alterations may fall within Permitted Development Rights and therefore may not require a conventional planning application.

However, Permitted Development is subject to specific limitations and conditions, and rights can be restricted or removed in certain circumstances.

For example, a loft conversion with a rear dormer may potentially fall within Permitted Development, while a larger rear extension may require a Prior Approval application.

We can assess your property and proposed works to help establish which planning route may be appropriate.

What is the difference between Permitted Development and Prior Approval?

Permitted Development allows certain types of development to take place without a standard planning application, provided the proposal meets the relevant requirements.

Prior Approval applies to certain types of Permitted Development where the Local Planning Authority must consider specific aspects of the proposal before the development can proceed.

For example, certain larger single-storey rear extensions can be built under the larger home extension provisions, subject to Prior Approval.

The relevant limits can allow extensions of up to 6 metres for semi-detached and terraced houses and 8 metres for detached houses, subject to the applicable conditions.

The correct planning route depends on the individual property and proposal.

Can you design a house extension to maximise the available space?

Yes. We approach each extension as an opportunity to improve both the space and functionality of your home.

We consider the existing layout, natural light, circulation, garden relationship, neighbouring properties and planning constraints when developing the design.

The aim is not simply to add floor area, but to create a well-considered extension that works as part of the existing home.

Do you design new-build homes?

Yes. We provide architectural design services for new-build residential properties, from initial concepts through to planning and further design stages.

We can help develop a bespoke home around your requirements, the characteristics of the site and the relevant planning policies and constraints.

Can you help with internal alterations and reconfiguring my house?

Yes. We can review your existing layout and develop proposals to improve the way your home is used.

This can include:

• Removing or relocating internal walls
• Creating open-plan living spaces
• Reconfiguring kitchens and dining areas
• Creating additional bedrooms or bathrooms
• Improving circulation and storage
• Connecting existing spaces with a new extension
• Combining internal alterations with external works

Where structural changes are proposed, a structural engineer may also be required.

What is your architectural design process?

Our process typically begins with an initial consultation to understand your requirements, aspirations, budget and the potential of your property.

We then develop the design through a series of stages:

1. Initial Consultation

We discuss your project, requirements and potential opportunities.

2. Survey & Existing Information

We establish the existing dimensions, layout and relevant site information required for the design.

3. Concept Design

We develop initial proposals exploring layout, scale, appearance and how the project can best utilise the available space.

4. Design Development

The preferred proposal is refined based on your feedback, planning considerations and technical requirements.

5. Planning

Where required, we prepare the relevant drawings and information and submit the planning application.

6. Technical Design

We develop the architectural information required to progress the project towards Building Regulations, structural drawings/calculations and construction, working alongside experienced technical specialists and consultants where required, such as structural engineers.

The exact stages can vary depending on the type and complexity of the project.

How long does the planning process take?

Planning timescales vary depending on the application type, Local Planning Authority and complexity of the proposal.

For a typical householder planning application, the Local Planning Authority will generally aim to issue a planning decision within 8 weeks of the application being validated.

More complex applications or applications requiring additional information may take longer.

The overall process can also include time for the initial design, preparation of drawings, submission and validation before the planning decision period begins.

We will provide guidance on the expected process and timescales for your particular project and keep you informed throughout the planning process.

Do you cover London and Essex?

Yes. SMY Architecture provides residential architectural services across London, Essex and Chelmsford, working with homeowners on extensions, loft conversions, renovations, conversions and new-build homes.

If you are unsure whether we cover your particular area, please get in touch with your project location and we can confirm.

Do you provide Building Regulations drawings?

Yes. Building Regulations drawings are different from planning drawings and are produced at a more detailed technical stage of the project.

Planning drawings are primarily concerned with how the proposed development looks and its impact on the property and surrounding area. They typically show the existing and proposed layouts, elevations, sections, site plan and overall design to support a planning application.

Building Regulations drawings provide more detailed information about how the building will be constructed and how it will comply with the Building Regulations. This can include construction details, insulation, fire safety, ventilation, drainage, structural information and other technical requirements.

For the preparation of Building Regulations and Structural Drawings/Calculations, we work alongside experienced technical specialists and consultants where required. Depending on the project, this can include structural engineers and other relevant specialists.

The level of technical information required will depend on the size, complexity and nature of the project.

Do I need a Party Wall Agreement for my extension?

Possibly. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply where proposed works affect a party wall, boundary or involve certain types of excavation close to a neighbouring property.

The Party Wall process is separate from planning permission and Building Regulations.

We can identify potential Party Wall considerations during the design process and provide the drawings and information required for the relevant professional adviser.

Where necessary, a specialist Party Wall Surveyor should be appointed.

Do I need freeholder consent or a Licence to Alter?

If your property is leasehold, you may require freeholder consent or a Licence to Alter before carrying out certain works, even if planning permission has been granted.

This can be particularly relevant to flats, maisonettes and leasehold properties where proposed works affect the structure, external appearance, roof or communal areas.

We can prepare the architectural drawings required to support a Licence to Alter application, while the legal consent itself is dealt with by the freeholder, managing agent or relevant legal adviser.

Do I need a Build Over Agreement for my extension?

Potentially. If your proposed extension is built over or close to a public sewer, the relevant water company may require a Build Over Agreement before construction begins.

This is particularly important for extensions where drainage infrastructure runs through the rear or side of the property.

We can help identify potential drainage constraints at an early stage and provide the architectural information required for the relevant agreement.

Can you help if I am not sure what I can build?

Yes. If you are unsure what is possible on your property, an initial architectural and planning assessment can help establish the potential opportunities and constraints.

We can review the property, proposed requirements and relevant planning considerations before developing a design.

This can be particularly useful if you are considering an extension, loft conversion, renovation or new-build project but are unsure where to start.

How do I get started with my project?

The best place to start is with an initial conversation about your property and what you would like to achieve.

Tell us about your project, your location and your requirements, and we can discuss the potential next steps and the most appropriate service for your needs.