RIBA Chartered Practice · ARB Registered · South London
Local Architect
in Croydon
Croydon is South London's largest borough, undergoing one of the most ambitious town centre regeneration programmes outside central London. Beyond the town centre, the borough's extensive Victorian and Edwardian streets — from Addiscombe to South Croydon — represent a significant market for householder architectural services.
What You Need to Know About Croydon Planning
Croydon's planning department manages one of the highest volumes of applications in London. The council is generally supportive of well-designed extensions and conversions across its predominantly Victorian and Edwardian housing stock. Conservation areas protect historic areas including South Croydon and Addiscombe.
Key planning considerations in Croydon:
- ✓Major town centre regeneration
- ✓Extensive Victorian and Edwardian housing
- ✓Strong transport connections (Gatwick, central London)
- ✓Large and diverse borough
- ✓Good value residential market
Free Planning Consultation
Not sure what planning permission you need for your project in Croydon? Speak to one of our RIBA-chartered architects for free expert advice.
- ✓Free initial planning assessment
- ✓Advice on Permitted Development rights
- ✓Conservation area guidance
- ✓No obligation quote
Conservation Areas & Planning Constraints in Croydon
Conservation areas
Croydon contains designated conservation areas where certain permitted development rights are restricted, so some external alterations that would be allowed elsewhere may need full planning permission. These include:
Article 4 Directions & permitted development
Within conservation areas, certain permitted development rights are restricted — for example some cladding, roof alterations, larger extensions or outbuildings that would be allowed elsewhere may instead need full planning permission. Individual Article 4 Directions can withdraw further rights on specific streets. We confirm exactly which designations and directions affect your address before any design work begins.
Projects we typically design in Croydon
- ✓Side-return and rear extensions to Victorian terraces
- ✓Loft conversions — dormer and mansard
- ✓Two-storey side extensions to semi-detached homes
- ✓New-build infill houses and small residential schemes
- ✓Rear and wraparound kitchen extensions
Official sources
Architectural Services in Croydon
Our RIBA Chartered Practice provides a comprehensive range of architectural and planning services for homeowners and developers across Croydon.
Planning Applications
Full preparation and submission of planning applications to your local authority, including householder applications, prior approvals, and certificates of lawful development.
Architectural Design
Complete architectural design from concept sketches and 3D visuals through to detailed planning and construction drawings tailored to your brief and local context.
Extensions & Conversions
Single and double-storey rear and side extensions, loft conversions, basement schemes, and garage conversions — designed to maximise space and light.
New Build Dwellings
Design and planning for new-build houses and residential developments, from single plots to small residential schemes, using high-performance construction methods.
Building Regulations
Detailed technical drawings and specifications submitted to building control to ensure your project meets all structural and safety requirements.
Planning Advice
Expert pre-application planning advice to understand what's achievable before you commit to a project — saving you time and money from the outset.
Explore our specialist guides to loft conversions, house extensions and new builds.
Nearby Areas We Also Cover
Frequently Asked Questions — Croydon Architects
Is my property in a conservation area in Croydon?
Croydon has designated conservation areas including Addington Village, Bradmore Green, Chapman Houses, Croham Manor Road and others. Within these areas certain permitted development rights are restricted, so some external alterations that would be permitted elsewhere may need full planning permission supported by design and heritage justification. We confirm your property's designation with London Borough of Croydon at the outset and prepare the documents these applications require.
How long does planning permission take?
Most householder planning applications are determined within the statutory 8-week target; more complex or conservation-area applications can take longer. We manage the whole process and liaise directly with the planning officer on your behalf.
Are you RIBA Chartered architects?
Yes. Shorplans Developments is a RIBA Chartered Practice and ARB-registered firm (Reg No. 089055C), so your project meets the highest professional standards and is covered by the RIBA Code of Professional Conduct.
Why Choose Shorplans as Your Croydon Architect?
Start Your Croydon Project Today
Contact our team for a free consultation about your architectural project in Croydon. We'll assess your property's potential and outline the planning route to success.
Get A Free QuoteRequest a Quote
Tell us about your project and we'll provide a clear, detailed fee proposal.
Step 1 of 4
Project
Shorplans also provides architectural services in: