As local residential architects and property renovation experts, we relish designing ‘new build’ properties in London’s prime residential neighbourhoods such as Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster. However true “new build” projects are exceedingly rare. The likelihood of obtaining an empty building plot to design and build a new property is pretty much non-existent. The term “new build” in West London’s conservation areas generally refers to the practice of buying an existing property, knocking it down, then designing and constructing a new building on the same plot.
West London ‘new build’ residential architects
Buro Architects have considerable experience designing several “new build” projects. Design and construction of the physical building can be demanding and require immense skill, patience and expertise. However, this is relatively straightforward in comparison to the complexities and nuances involved when negotiating planning permissions and relevant licences before the building work begins. Regardless of the local planners and borough where the residential property is located, any approval will most likely stipulate the new house “appear to be more or less a replica of the original” when viewed from outside.
Buro Architects are proud of our track record with “new build” property renovation, each receiving planning approval. The property above is a fine example where we knocked down the original house, installed a new basement (only single level basements are permitted now), redesigned and renovated the whole house with a completely new and reconfigured interior whilst maintaining a similar appearance from the outside. Buro Architects increased the square footage of the property by adding a floor at the top of the building. We appeased planning authorities as well as London’s most discerning neighbours to maximise the “new build” footprint and floor space.
This is no small undertaking and while it may sound a little excessive, there are two sizeable advantages. Firstly, your new house is not only larger, but square and true, with floors level, doors and windows matching and your property able to accommodate the infrastructure requirements for modern services. The other advantage is the renovation work is classed as ‘new build’ and attracts 0% VAT, offering considerable cost savings when compared to renovating and constructing basements or adding floors while leaving the original house in place.
