Architects & Architectural Designers Near Me
Discover architects and architectural practices working on homes across the UK, from house extensions and renovations to new-build homes and complete transformations.
The HomeInspire Directory brings together residential architects with a focus on thoughtful, considered design. Browse practices by location, explore their work and discover architects behind some of the projects featured by HomeInspire.
Whether you're planning an extension, renovating a period property, converting an existing building or designing a new home, our directory can help you find an architect whose experience and approach matches your project.
Emilie Mauran, Director of EMR Architecture
Find Architects For Your Project
An architect can explore how an extension will work with your existing house, develop the design, prepare drawings for planning and coordinate the information builders need to price and build it.
House Extensions
For larger renovations, an architect can rethink the layout, improve how spaces connect, bring in more natural light and develop one coherent design for the whole home.
Home Renovations
New Build Homes
From early site appraisal through planning, technical design and construction, an architect can guide a new home from first sketch to completion.
Period & Listed Properties
Older and listed buildings need a considered approach. Look for architects with experience balancing a property's character and heritage with modern living, and with listed building consent.
Converting a barn or other existing building brings its own planning and structural challenges. An architect with conversion experience can help you navigate them.
Barn Conversions
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Charles Tashima, Director of Studio Tashima
How To Choose An Architect For Your Project
Look at completed work. Do their projects feel like the home you want? Browse the featured projects above and each practice's portfolio.
Check they're registered. The title "architect" is legally protected in the UK. Registered architects appear on the Architects Registration Board (ARB) register, which you can search online.
Look for relevant experience. An architect who regularly designs rear extensions or works on period homes will already know the typical planning and design issues.
Talk early about budget. A good architect will discuss realistic costs from the first conversation.
Ask what's included. Some practices stop at planning drawings, while others also provide technical design, tendering support and site visits.
Choose someone you get on with. You'll work together for months, so communication and trust matter.
Architect or Architectural Designer FAQs
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An architect helps you turn a brief into a designed, buildable home. That usually includes concept design, planning applications, technical drawings and, if you want it, support during construction.
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Fees vary with project size, complexity and the services included. They're often quoted as a percentage of construction cost (often 8-15%), a fixed fee or an hourly rate. Ask for a written fee proposal from each practice you speak to, so you can compare like for like.
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Not always. Some smaller projects can be designed by an architectural designer or builder. An architect is particularly valuable when the design is complex, the space is tight, the property is period or listed, or you want the best possible result from the space.
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For cosmetic updates, no. If you're changing the layout, opening up spaces, adding structure or reworking the whole house, an architect can add a great deal of value.
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"Architect" is a protected title for professionals registered with the ARB. Architectural designers often do similar residential work but aren't necessarily registered architects. Both can be excellent, so judge them on experience and portfolio.
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Browse the HomeInspire Directory by region, look at the homes they've designed, and shortlist two or three practices to speak to. Choosing an architect who has worked in your local area can help with planning familiarity.
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As early as possible, ideally before you finalise your budget or buy a property that needs work. Early advice can shape your decisions and avoid costly changes later.
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Yes. Most residential architects prepare and submit planning applications, and can advise on whether your project may fall under permitted development.
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Many can offer contract administration or site visits, though the level of involvement varies. Confirm this in the fee proposal.
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Ask about relevant experience, who will work on your project, what services are included, how fees are structured, a realistic timeline, and how they approach budget.
