Horizon Architecture Ltd offers a comprehensive range of architectural services including planning applications, construction drawings, building permissions, extensions, renovations, refurbishments, new building design, CGI, and consultation. Our expertise covers every stage of the architectural process, from initial concept development through to detailed design and project completion. We also provide tailored advice on sustainable building practices and regulatory compliance, ensuring that each project is both innovative and fully compliant with local and national standards.

Yes, we handle a wide spectrum of projects including residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures. Whether it is designing bespoke family houses, multi-unit residential developments, office spaces, retail outlets, or industrial facilities, our team brings extensive experience and a flexible approach. This allows us to meet the distinct requirements and regulations of each sector, delivering high-quality, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solutions tailored to client needs.

We primarily serve London and its surrounding areas, including Greater London boroughs and nearby counties such as Essex, Watford, and Richmond. Additionally, we undertake projects throughout the UK, adapting our services to the specific planning policies and building regulations of each locality. Our extensive knowledge of regional requirements and strong relationships with local authorities enable us to provide seamless architectural solutions regardless of project location.

Yes, we offer a complimentary initial consultation to discuss your project in detail. This meeting allows us to understand your vision, requirements, and budget constraints while providing preliminary advice on feasibility and potential challenges. We believe that establishing clear communication and mutual understanding from the outset is crucial to the success of any architectural project.

Our team consists of RIBA-chartered architects with extensive experience across a broad range of projects. We have successfully delivered designs for residential, commercial, and heritage buildings, always focusing on innovation, sustainability, and compliance with the latest regulations. Our architects continuously update their skills and knowledge to stay at the forefront of industry standards and technologies, ensuring that clients receive expert guidance and high-quality results.

Absolutely. We prepare and submit planning applications for a wide variety of projects, ranging from minor home extensions to large-scale developments. Our team manages the entire process, including site analysis, design proposals, preparation of all necessary documentation, and liaison with local planning authorities. We also provide strategic advice to maximize the chances of approval and handle any required amendments or appeals, ensuring a smooth and efficient planning experience.

The planning application process involves several key stages: conducting a thorough site analysis to identify constraints and opportunities; developing design proposals that align with client goals and comply with local planning policies; preparing detailed drawings, reports, and application forms; submitting the application to the relevant planning authority; and managing ongoing communication to address any queries or conditions imposed. We guide clients through each step, ensuring transparency and responsiveness throughout the process.

Typically, the planning process takes around 8 weeks for minor applications such as small home extensions or alterations. For major applications involving larger developments or complex sites, the process can extend to approximately 13 weeks or more, depending on the complexity and any additional consultations required. We closely monitor timelines and keep clients informed at every stage to manage expectations and expedite where possible.

If your planning application is rejected, we carefully review the feedback provided by the planning authority to understand the reasons for refusal. We then work with you to modify the design or address concerns, preparing a revised application if appropriate. Alternatively, we can guide you through the appeals process, representing your interests and providing expert evidence to support your case. Our goal is to find the best path forward to achieve a successful outcome.

Yes, we have extensive experience navigating the special requirements and restrictions associated with listed buildings. We prepare detailed consent applications that respect the historic and architectural significance of such properties, working closely with conservation officers to ensure compliance. Our approach balances preservation with modern functionality, helping clients achieve their renovation or extension goals without compromising heritage values.

Yes, all our architectural designs fully comply with the current UK Building Regulations. We ensure that every aspect of the design meets statutory requirements related to structural integrity, fire safety, energy efficiency, ventilation, and accessibility. Compliance is prioritized from the earliest design stages to avoid costly delays or modifications during construction.

Our designs take into account a comprehensive range of regulations including structural safety standards to ensure buildings are sound; fire safety codes to protect occupants; energy efficiency requirements to reduce environmental impact and running costs; ventilation standards for healthy indoor air quality; and accessibility guidelines to accommodate all users, including those with disabilities. This holistic approach ensures buildings are safe, sustainable, and inclusive.

The Future Homes Standard 2025 introduces stringent requirements for new homes, focusing on high levels of insulation, airtightness, and the integration of low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps. These measures aim to reduce carbon emissions by 75-80%, contributing significantly to the UK’s climate targets. We ensure all new building designs comply with these standards, helping clients benefit from energy savings and future-proofed homes.

Yes, we prepare all necessary technical drawings and documentation required for Building Regulations approval. We liaise directly with building control officers to facilitate smooth and timely approvals. Our proactive approach helps identify and resolve potential issues early, minimizing delays and ensuring that construction can proceed in compliance with all legal requirements.

Energy efficiency is ensured through the integration of high-performance insulation materials, airtight building envelopes, and the use of low-carbon heating technologies such as heat pumps or solar thermal systems. We also optimize natural lighting and ventilation to reduce energy consumption. These design strategies not only comply with regulations but also lower utility costs and improve occupant comfort.

We design a variety of home extensions tailored to your specific needs, including single-storey and double-storey extensions, side extensions, rear extensions, and wrap-around extensions. Each design is carefully developed to maximize space, natural light, and flow while respecting the character of your existing property and the surrounding neighborhood. Our goal is to create seamless additions that enhance both functionality and value.

Some extensions fall under Permitted Development Rights, meaning they do not require full planning permission, though they must comply with specific size and design limits. However, more substantial or complex extensions typically require planning permission. We assess your project’s specifics and advise on the necessary permissions, guiding you through the application process to ensure compliance and a smooth approval.

Yes, we specialize in loft conversions that maximize available space while complying with building regulations and planning policies. Whether you want a simple dormer or a more complex mansard conversion, we design solutions that enhance your home’s usability and value. We also manage all necessary approvals and coordinate with structural engineers to ensure safety and structural integrity.

Renovation projects typically involve an initial assessment of the existing structure, followed by detailed design work to address client goals and regulatory requirements. We handle the preparation of planning and building control applications, produce detailed construction drawings, and can assist with contractor selection and project management. Our approach ensures that renovations are executed efficiently, preserving the building’s character while upgrading its functionality and performance.

Yes, we offer bespoke architectural design services for new homes, guiding clients from initial concept through to completion. Our process includes site analysis, feasibility studies, detailed design development, planning submissions, and construction documentation. We focus on creating homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, sustainable, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Absolutely. We specialize in sustainable design practices, including adherence to Passivhaus standards, use of renewable energy systems, and incorporation of eco-friendly materials. Our designs prioritize energy efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and occupant wellbeing. We help clients achieve green building certifications and future-proof their homes against evolving environmental regulations.

The new building process typically starts with an initial consultation and site appraisal, followed by concept design and client feedback. Once the concept is approved, we prepare detailed planning and building regulation drawings, submit applications, and coordinate approvals. After obtaining permissions, we produce construction documentation and assist with contractor tendering and construction oversight, ensuring the project is delivered on time and within budget.

The design timeline varies depending on the project complexity, site constraints, and planning requirements. Typically, the process takes several months, with initial designs and planning applications requiring 3-6 months, followed by building regulation approvals and detailed construction drawings. We work closely with clients to establish realistic schedules and keep the project moving efficiently.

Yes, we provide expert advice on material selection considering aesthetics, durability, sustainability, and compliance with building standards. We help clients choose finishes, fixtures, and construction materials that complement the design vision while optimizing performance and maintenance requirements. Our goal is to ensure a cohesive and high-quality final result.

We offer a full suite of CGI services including 3D renderings, virtual walkthroughs, photorealistic visuals, and animated fly-throughs. These tools help clients, planners, and stakeholders visualize the proposed designs in detail before construction begins, facilitating better decision-making and communication.

CGI enhances project understanding by providing realistic images and animations that illustrate design intent, spatial relationships, and materiality. This aids in securing planning approvals, marketing properties to potential buyers or tenants, and resolving design issues early. It also improves client engagement by allowing them to experience the space virtually.

Yes, we can provide CGI services for projects of all sizes, from small residential extensions to large commercial developments. We tailor the level of detail and scope of visualization to suit the project’s needs and budget, ensuring effective communication at every stage.

Our visualizations are highly accurate, based on detailed architectural plans and specifications. We collaborate closely with design teams to ensure that CGI models reflect the true scale, materials, lighting, and context of the project, providing reliable representations for decision-making and presentations.

Yes, CGI can be a powerful tool in planning applications by helping planning committees and local authorities better understand the impact of proposed developments. Realistic visuals can demonstrate how a project fits within its context, addresses design policies, and mitigates concerns related to scale, massing, and aesthetics, thereby increasing the likelihood of approval.

Yes, we collaborate closely with experienced structural engineers to ensure that all designs are structurally sound and comply with safety standards. This partnership allows us to integrate architectural and engineering solutions seamlessly, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality.

Absolutely, we coordinate with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) engineers to integrate essential building services into the design. This ensures that systems such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical wiring, and plumbing are efficiently planned and executed, contributing to the building’s performance and occupant comfort.

Yes, we maintain a trusted network of professionals including surveyors, contractors, interior designers, and sustainability consultants. We can recommend the right experts for your project’s specific needs and help coordinate their involvement to ensure a cohesive and efficient workflow.

We act as the central point of coordination, facilitating clear and timely communication among all parties involved in the project. Regular meetings, progress reports, and collaborative platforms are used to keep everyone informed and aligned, minimizing misunderstandings and delays.

Yes, we have extensive experience integrating renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal systems, heat pumps, and rainwater harvesting. Our designs aim to reduce environmental impact and operational costs while enhancing building sustainability and resilience.

Yes, we provide comprehensive project management services from concept through to completion. Our team oversees scheduling, budgeting, quality control, and coordination of contractors and consultants to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

We develop detailed project schedules with clear milestones and deadlines, regularly monitoring progress and adjusting plans as needed. Transparent communication with clients and contractors helps manage expectations and address any potential delays proactively.

Yes, we assist clients in preparing tender documents, evaluating bids, and selecting qualified contractors who meet project requirements and budget. Our experience helps ensure that contractors are reliable, skilled, and aligned with the project’s goals.

We adopt a proactive approach to managing changes and resolving issues, maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. Prompt identification and collaborative problem-solving minimize disruptions and keep the project on track.

Yes, we provide post-completion inspections, snagging, and ongoing support to ensure that any defects are addressed promptly and that the building performs as intended. Our commitment extends beyond project handover to guarantee client satisfaction.

Our fees can be structured as fixed fees or percentage-based, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. We provide clear, transparent proposals outlining all costs upfront, ensuring no surprises. Fee structures are tailored to suit client preferences and project requirements.

Yes, we provide rough cost estimates based on current market rates and project specifics. Early budget guidance helps clients make informed decisions and align design ambitions with financial realities. We update estimates as the project progresses and more details become available.

Yes, payment schedules are typically aligned with the RIBA Plan of Work stages or agreed milestones. This staged approach provides financial flexibility and ensures that payments correspond with delivered work, fostering trust and accountability.

No, we maintain full transparency about all costs involved. Our proposals clearly state all fees and potential additional charges, such as planning application fees or specialist consultant costs, so clients can plan their budgets accurately without unexpected expenses.

Absolutely. We tailor designs and project scopes to maximize value within your budget constraints. Through careful planning, material selection, and design optimization, we help clients achieve their goals without compromising quality or compliance.

Yes, we design a wide range of commercial buildings including offices, retail spaces, hospitality venues, and mixed-use developments. Our designs focus on functionality, brand identity, and user experience, while ensuring compliance with commercial building regulations and sustainability standards.

Yes, we have experience designing apartment complexes, housing developments, and other multi-unit residential buildings. Our approach balances density, privacy, community spaces, and access to amenities, delivering well-planned, attractive living environments.

Yes, we design schools, colleges, and other educational facilities tailored to the needs of students and staff. Our designs prioritize safety, accessibility, flexibility, and sustainability, creating inspiring learning environments that support educational goals.

Yes, we design healthcare buildings including clinics, care homes, and specialized medical facilities. Our designs comply with stringent healthcare regulations and focus on patient comfort, operational efficiency, and infection control.

Yes, we design hotels, guest houses, and other hospitality venues. Our designs aim to create welcoming, functional, and memorable spaces that enhance guest experience while meeting operational needs and regulatory requirements.

Yes, we have extensive experience working with listed buildings, balancing the need to preserve historic character with modern functionality and comfort. We understand the complexities of listed building regulations and work closely with conservation officers to ensure all interventions are sympathetic and compliant.

Yes, we prepare and submit detailed listed building consent applications, including heritage impact assessments and sensitive design proposals. Our knowledge of the consent process helps clients navigate this often complex regulatory environment efficiently.

Yes, we design projects within conservation areas with careful attention to local character and planning policies. Our designs respect the historic and architectural context, ensuring that new work enhances rather than detracts from the area’s unique qualities.

Absolutely. We provide expert advice on the restrictions and requirements associated with listed buildings and conservation areas, helping clients understand what is permissible and guiding them through the necessary approvals and compliance measures to avoid costly delays or refusals.