HMO Conversion – Planning, Design & Build Project, London

Client: Confidential
Location: London
Sector: Residential Investment / HMO
Service Type: Design & Build | Property Refurbishment | HMO Conversion
Duration: 12 Weeks
Completion Date: September 2025

Project Overview

Bigness Group was appointed to deliver a full HMO Conversion and Refurbishment for a London-based property investor.
The project transformed a standard residential house into a fully licensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), designed for modern tenants and compliant with all London HMO regulations.

Our Design & Build team managed every phase — from architectural design and planning submissions to complete interior fit-out, fire safety upgrades, and certification.
The result: a safe, stylish, and high-yield property tailored for professional tenants.

Project Objectives

  • Convert a single dwelling into a fully compliant HMO with six self-contained bedrooms.
  • Improve energy efficiency, soundproofing, and overall living comfort.
  • Deliver a high-quality finish suitable for professional tenants and long-term occupancy.
  • Complete within a 12-week construction programme, ready for market launch.

Scope of Works

  • Architectural Design & Planning:
    Layout redesign for optimal space use, ensuite integration, and communal flow.

  • Construction & Conversion:
    Partition walls, insulation, and new fire-rated doors throughout.

  • Electrical & Mechanical Upgrades:
    Full rewire, LED lighting, emergency lighting, interlinked smoke alarms, and extractor systems.

  • Bathrooms & Kitchens:
    New modern kitchens with integrated appliances and tiled splashbacks.
    Refurbished bathrooms featuring walk-in showers and contemporary finishes.

  • Bedrooms:
    Fully redecorated, furnished rooms with bespoke joinery and modern lighting.

  • Compliance:
    Fire safety, building control sign-off, and full HMO certification.

  • Exterior & Landscaping:
    Front and rear façade cleaning, fencing, and garden redesign to enhance curb appeal.

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge 1 – Maximising Occupancy Without Overcrowding:
The property footprint was limited, requiring smart design to meet all HMO spacing standards.
Solution: Our design team reconfigured circulation routes, allowing six fully functional ensuite bedrooms while maintaining communal comfort.

Challenge 2 – Compliance & Inspections:
Navigating local authority inspections within tight deadlines.
Solution: Bigness maintained early engagement with building control officers and HMO inspectors to ensure full compliance before completion.

Challenge 3 – Noise & Fire Safety Standards:
Upgrading acoustic performance and fire protection in a multi-level structure.
Solution: Installed high-density acoustic plasterboard, soundproof flooring systems, and FD30-rated fire doors with automatic closers.

Results

  • Completed on time and within budget despite regulatory complexity.
  • Achieved full HMO licence approval on first inspection.
  • Delivered a stylish, energy-efficient, and profitable property for the investor.
  • Increased rental yield potential by over 45% compared to the original layout.

Key Outcomes

  • Demonstrated Bigness Group’s full Design & Build capability from concept to completion.
  • Established Bigness as a reliable partner for landlords, developers, and property investors.
  • Reinforced the company’s reputation for quality, compliance, and attention to detail in London’s competitive housing market.

Project Highlights:

  • Full exterior refurbishment and landscaping
  • Contemporary kitchen and dining area
  • Ensuite bathrooms with designer tiles
  • Modern bedrooms with integrated lighting and furnishings
  • Fire safety installations and acoustic upgrades

💬 Client Testimonial

“Bigness Group managed every aspect of the conversion with precision. From planning to completion, their team handled compliance, design, and delivery flawlessly. The finish is exceptional — and the property achieved full HMO licence without delays.”

Sustainability & Safety

  • High-efficiency boilers and LED lighting
  • Waste reduction through recycling partnerships
  • Eco-friendly materials for flooring and paint
  • Fully compliant with Bigness Group’s Governance Framework and Health & Safety Standards

Why Choose Bigness Group for HMO Conversions

  • Turnkey Design & Build delivery
  • In-house planning and architectural support
  • Fire safety, electrical, and compliance expertise
  • Proven success with HMO investors across London