We are Kent architects who specialise in crafting creative design and planning strategies to unlock the potential of challenging sites and buildings.
Since 2013, we’ve been working on residential projects right across the county of Kent. Because of this, our team has a firm grasp on the nuances of local planning policies and building regulations in this region.
Recognised as one of the best residential architecture firms in London, we work across the entire residential architecture spectrum with construction budgets of 200k - 10m. With a proven track record delivering home extensions, flat conversions, HMOs, new build houses, and flats, we deliver incredibly successful projects for national house builders and seasoned property developers right through to first-time investors and homeowners.
Throughout the planning, design, and construction journey's highs and lows, you'll find our team open, communicative, and down-to-earth. Unlike numerous architecture practices, we consistently underpromise and overdeliver.
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As architects in Kent, we serve homeowners and developers throughout the county, including (but not limited to) the following postcodes: ME1, ME12, ME13, ME17, CT1, CT14, CT15, DA1, DA13, TN12, TN13, BR6.
Known fondly as the Garden of England, Kent is one of the country’s most picturesque regions, defined by the natural beauty of its rugged coastline and breathtaking countryside.
Located to the south-east of London, the county of Kent comprises 12 local districts, including Canterbury, Dover, and Maidstone, and has a population of over 1.5 million; the largest population of English counties in the south-east.
Kent is a particularly popular spot for weekenders, boasting a buffet of experiences for visitors to indulge in. Some of the top tourist spots include the White Cliffs of Dover, a marvellous site of natural beauty where dramatic white cliffs meet the sea. You’ll find England’s best oysters in coastal Whitstable, delicious cherry orchards in Canterbury, and historic castles in Leeds and Hever.
Perfect for those who prefer the lure of nature to the buzz of London life, Kent is a county abundant with opportunity for its residents and offers more affordable housing options than you’ll find in the city.
Given Kent is so large, you’ll find almost every type of architecture here. Of note however, are its hundreds of listed buildings, which speak to its storied history. Among the many listed properties are castles, churches, chapels, and cathedrals, as well as small cottages and spectacularly grand houses. Perhaps the most quirky of these listed buildings is a Grade I dog kennel (yes, a dog kennel), which sits in the courtyard at Ightham Mote, a medieval moated manor house. The kennel dates back to 1891 and was built for a mountainous St Bernard named Dido. True story, we promise.
As you might imagine, there are also hundreds of conservation areas in Kent, designed to preserve the character of local areas and restrict new development from sullying the beauty of particular corners of the county.
Timber frame buildings dominate the region, which is of course because of how heavily forested the area was in the past. Timber was an accessible, reliable building material and the locals made the most of it. Additionally, many of the older buildings are constructed of ragstone (also known as young limestone) which have aged impressively. Of course today there are many more modern buildings in the region too, the county delightfully blending old charm and new.
Kent has a number of local councils, and on average, the area approved around 85% of planning applications in its most recently reported quarter (ending September 2023).
Our expertise in planning applications means we have a 97% success rate of achieving planning permission for our clients (across all councils). Kent is a county where we have a history with its many councils, increasing the chances that you - as our client - will get planning approval.
Homeowners in Kent quite understandably aren’t looking to leave any time soon, which is likely why we regularly see locals looking to improve their existing homes rather than selling and buying or building new. Most commonly we see homeowners extending their Kent homes which, while possible within conservation areas, can be a challenge (one we’re always up for mind you!). Loft conversions are also common in this region, which are a great way to create more space in the home.
There are huge opportunities for developers in Kent. In particular, we’ve noticed a trend toward new build family houses, new build flatted developments and repurposing office buildings. Following the pandemic we’ve seen a total shift in employees adapting to a hybrid model of remote and in-office working, with many businesses downsizing, no longer requiring their large, expensive communal spaces. Because of this, developers are capitalising on these spaces and transforming them into residential buildings, which surprisingly, doesn’t always require planning permission.
“ Incredible dedication from the team, very responsive and enthusiastic. Always willing to accommodate our requirements. Very talented individuals working on the project who took a genuine interest in the project which showed in the quality of the outcomes. ”
Vimla N. — London
“ Ufuk Bahar explained everything from the beginning of the listed building consent application process. I felt very comfortable with his expertise. I would use their services again. ”
John J. — London
“ I have managed to find UA online, and after a quick search on their web page I was sure they are the right company for my project. I needed help with a Retrospective Planning Application which we managed to have been granted a few months after. I had the luck to work with Nicole throughout the project, and honestly I would like to say that she is a very professional person. I am looking forward to work with you in the near future. ”
Rado — London
We are a multidisciplinary team of architects, planning consultants, interior designers and project managers offering multiple services under one roof. When you work with our firm, you have the support of our entire studio behind you - no matter what.
Unprecedented planning results with our unique 6-step system
Artistically curated buildings with truly unique and lasting appeal
Lifestyle-led living with exquisite, inspirational and refined concepts
Neighbourhoods with sensitive, pragmatic and imaginative urbanism
Extensions with extra space, light, comfort and good vibes
Conversion of houses into multiple flats with greatest return
Custom houses with refined and beautifully proportioned spaces
Block of flats with maximum value and commercial viability
New use class system with huge opportunities and flexibility
HMO conversions with decent standards and maximum yields
We specialise in crafting creative design and planning strategies to unlock the hidden potential of developments, secure planning permission and deliver imaginative projects on tricky sites
Write us a message