Architectural Design & Planning Applications in London
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From idea to responsible, buildable plans.
At Bigness, design and planning are not just about drawings and approvals.
They are about making the right decisions early — decisions that shape how a property will perform, adapt, and be cared for over its lifetime.
Our design approach is guided by the Responsive House Framework: a way of planning buildings that are structurally sound, energy-aware, compliant, and prepared for future use — not just approved on paper.
Smart designs. Strong planning. Clean approvals.
Every successful project starts with clear thinking and responsible planning.
We work closely with clients, architects, engineers, and planning authorities to ensure each proposal is:
- buildable in real-world conditions
- compliant with current regulations
- responsive to how the building will be used and maintained
- adaptable to future upgrades, extensions, or efficiency improvements
By addressing performance, compliance, and long-term care at the design stage, we help avoid costly changes, delays, and compromises later.
Our Architectural Design Services
Our design services form the foundation of the Responsive House Framework — ensuring each project is planned as a complete system, not a collection of drawings.
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Concept Design & Feasibility
Early-stage design focused on layout, structure, buildability, and planning strategy. -
Measured Surveys & Existing Conditions
Accurate surveys to inform responsible design decisions and prevent on-site surprises. -
Architectural Plans & Technical Drawings
Clear, coordinated drawings suitable for planning submission and construction. -
3D Visualisation & Massing
Helping clients and planners understand scale, form, and spatial impact. -
Design Coordination
Integration with structural, MEP, and building regulation requirements.
Planning Applications We Handle
We manage the planning process with a focus on clarity, compliance, and long-term suitability.
- Full Planning Applications
- Householder Applications
- Prior Approval & Permitted Development
- Change of Use & Amendments
- Lawful Development Certificates (LDC)
- Appeals & Resubmissions
Each application is prepared with buildability and future performance in mind — not just approval.
Building Regulations & Technical Compliance
Planning approval is only one step.
We ensure designs are ready to move forward responsibly.
- Building Regulations drawings
- Structural coordination
- Fire safety considerations
- Thermal performance & energy strategy alignment
- Coordination for future retrofitting and upgrades
Our technical planning ensures a smooth transition from approved plans to construction, without redesign or delay.
Our Design & Planning Process
Our process reflects the first stage of the Bigness approach to responsible construction:
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Initial consultation & objectives
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Site review & feasibility assessment
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Concept design aligned with long-term performance
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Planning strategy & submission
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Technical coordination for build readiness
This ensures every project begins with clarity, responsibility, and confidence.
Why Design & Planning with Bigness?
Because good planning is not just about permission — it’s about protection.
- Decisions made at design stage shape costs, comfort, and compliance for decades
- Poor planning creates future maintenance and performance problems
- Responsible planning protects your investment before construction begins
At Bigness, we don’t design for approval alone.
We design for how your property will live, perform, and evolve.
FAQ – Architectural Design & Planning
Q: How long does planning approval usually take?
A: Planning decisions typically take 6–10 weeks, depending on the local authority, project complexity, and consultation requirements. We plan timelines realistically and factor potential delays into the wider project strategy.
Q: Do you also handle building regulations and building control?
A: Yes. We provide full technical drawings, calculations, and building regulations coordination, ensuring designs are compliant, build-ready, and aligned with long-term performance requirements.
Q: Can Bigness design and build the entire project?
A: Absolutely. Our design & build approach keeps planning, construction, and delivery under one roof — reducing risk, improving coordination, and ensuring design decisions translate properly on site.
Q: What happens if my planning application is refused?
A: A refusal doesn’t mean the end of the project. We review feedback carefully and manage appeals, redesigns, and strategic re-submissions, always focusing on buildability, compliance, and long-term suitability — not just approval.
Our Architectural Projects in London
We have delivered hundreds of architectural and planning projects across London, including extensions, lofts, basements, commercial refurbishments and full new-build designs. Our work focuses on smart layouts, strong technical detailing, and planning applications that councils can approve with confidence. Every design is shaped around the client’s lifestyle, operational flow and long-term property value.
Builders in London by Borough
At Bigness, we provide professional building services across every borough of London. Whether you need a full new build, property refurbishment, ongoing maintenance, or retrofitting, our team of expert builders is ready to deliver. Below you can explore the specific areas we cover to find builders near you.
Barking and Dagenham / Barnet / Bexley / Brent / Bromley / Camden / Croydon / Ealing / Enfield / Greenwich / Hackney / Hammersmith and Fulham / Haringey / Harrow / Havering / Hillingdon / Hounslow / Islington / Kensington and Chelsea / Kingston upon Thames / Lambeth / Lewisham / Merton / Newham / Redbridge / Richmond upon Thames / Southwark / Sutton / Tower Hamlets / Waltham Forest / Wandsworth / Westminster
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