HOBBS ARC is a residential architectural design practice specialising in planning-led home projects. We help homeowners understand what is achievable, establish the correct planning route, and progress confidently from early advice through to delivery.
Our work combines clear professional guidance with considered design, helping avoid unnecessary risk, delay, and redesign.
Clear, planning-led advice and design that helps you understand what’s achievable, choose the right route, and move forward with confidence.
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Early clarity before costs escalate
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Planning-aware decisions from day one
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A structured route from advice to delivery
House extensions
Planning-led extension design focused on scale, neighbour impact, and long-term value.
Loft conversions
Thoughtful loft conversion design shaped by planning, structure, and usable space.
Whole house remodels
Integrated whole-house design informed by planning constraints and how you want to live.
Building regulations require precision
Planning your home shouldn’t feel uncertain
Advisory & planning services
Independent architectural and planning advice provided at key decision points in residential projects. These services support early judgement, from assessing a property before purchase, to reviewing planning risk ahead of an application, or navigating complex policy considerations, helping clarify options before further commitments are made.
Pre-purchase design & planning review
Clear architectural advice before or during a property purchase, assessing development potential, planning constraints, and key risks to support informed decisions
Pre-planning application assessment
An early-stage planning assessment to identify policy constraints, risks, and likely planning considerations before submitting a formal application.
Planning consultancy for residential development
Strategic planning advice for residential projects where policy interpretation, planning risk, or development strategy requires careful professional judgement.
Guidance on architecture and renovations
Clear, practical guidance to help homeowners understand the key considerations that shape residential projects — offering context and insight to support better decisions before and during a renovation.
Planning & design
How planners assess residential proposals and how good design anticipates common objections before they arise.
Regulations & buildability
Why drawings that are buildable matter, and how technical decisions affect construction, coordination, and outcomes on site.
Budget & Decision-Making
How early design choices influence cost, programme, and long-term value — and where spending more genuinely pays off.
Understanding how residential projects are funded
Many residential projects are shaped as much by funding as by design ambition. Understanding how projects are typically financed helps set realistic expectations, inform early design decisions, and avoid unnecessary delays later on.
This clarity allows you to choose an appropriate route — whether that involves savings, remortgaging, staged works, or lender-led programmes.
Client testimonials
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Planning approved first time
HOBBS ARC made the whole process of extending our house suprisingly straightforward. From the initial design through to planning approval, the team were on top of everything: clear, communicative and meticulous.
James R., Islington, London
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Rear extension + kitchen remodel
Their attention to detail was exceptional, and they were always available to answer questions. The final space feels light, modern, and beautifully integrated with our existing home. We couldn't be happier with the result.
Sarah H., Clapham London
Kitchen extension projects
These example projects illustrate our approach to kitchen extensions. Each is shaped by its planning context, structural requirements, and the practical needs of everyday living.
Kitchen extension, South London
Carefully proportioned kitchen extension creating a calm, cosy corner within an open, light-filled space.
Side return kitchen extension, Victorian terrace
A carefully detailed kitchen extension incorporating hand-painted cabinetry and a discreet, concealed larder.
Rear kitchen extension, family home
A traditional hand-painted kitchen extension grounded by a limestone floor and balanced proportions.
Start a project
Tell us about your home, your goals, and your timeline.