Planning permission granted in North West London - Red Arch House | RISE Blog

We are thrilled to announce that our latest planning application for a new home in North West London has been granted permission by the local planning authority. Red Arch House has been a labour of love for our team, and we’re excited to share the details with you.

Chapter 1: From Conception to Approval

The journey of this project began several months ago when we embarked on the initial design process. Our aim was to transform an underused side garden of a semi-detached Post War House into a contemporary, energy-efficient home. The site presented numerous challenges, including tree constraints and a previously undeveloped space. However, our experience and expertise in working with difficult conditions allowed us to propose a beautiful and sustainable solution.

To ensure a smooth planning process, we conducted a detailed pre-application consultation before submitting the full planning application. This involved working closely with design and planning officers from the outset to develop a design that would comply with all regulations and requirements. We strongly believe in collaborating with the authorities from the early stages to achieve the best outcome for both our clients and the community.

Chapter 2: Overcoming Design Challenges

One of the key factors in obtaining planning permission was addressing any potential design concerns. We consulted extensively with the Council’s Design Officer, who thoroughly reviewed our proposals. Their evaluation concluded that there were design concerns as the site was visible public view. The Officer commended the project for its sympathetic size, proportioned house design, which seamlessly blended contemporary aesthetics with materials suitable for the dense urban setting.

In our studio, we have a talented team of designers who crafted realistic renders that showcase the true potential of this project. The precast concrete bay windows, reclaimed brick front, rear, and side walls, and the striking red zinc roof create a visually stunning composition. We are genuinely thrilled with the outcome and believe that this design will be a remarkable addition to the architectural fabric of North West London.

Chapter 3: Looking Ahead

With planning permission secured, we are excited to embark on the next phase of this project: the technical design, SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) panels manufacturing, and construction. Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to energy efficiency will be integral to the successful execution of this unique 160m2 family home. We anticipate breaking ground later this year and cannot wait to witness the transformation of this previously under-utilised space into a vibrant and sustainable residence, which has been designed to Passivhaus standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How did you address the tree constraints on the site?
   • Our design team worked closely with an arboriculturist and the council’s Tree Officer to assess the impact of the proposed development on the existing trees. We carefully planned the positioning of the new home to ensure minimal disturbance to the trees, thereby preserving the natural environment.
2. What construction methodology do you employ to achieve energy-efficient and sustainable designs?
   • Our studio specialises in employing sustainable construction methods, such as using low carbon concrete, using timber structure in lieu of steel where possible and potentially using modern construction methods like SIPs panels. These panels are prefabricated off-site, minimising waste and ensuring superior insulation for reduced energy consumption in the final structure.
3. Can you provide more details about the design features that contribute to energy efficiency?
   • In addition to the SIPs panels, our design incorporates passive design strategies, such as strategic window placement to maximise natural light and ventilation. We also prioritise the use of energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy systems, and rainwater harvesting to minimise the carbon footprint of the home.
4. How long does the construction process typically take for a project of this scale?
   • While each project is unique, and the duration can vary based on several factors, we estimate that the construction of this 160m2 family home will take approximately 7 to 10 months. We strive to adhere to strict timelines without compromising on quality. By utilising a SIPs approach, as mentioned above, for construction the time to build could be significantly reduced, see here for an article on SIPs.
5. Do you offer services for obtaining planning permission for self-build projects?
   • Absolutely! We understand the complexities of the planning process and offer comprehensive services to guide self-builders through every stage, from initial concept development to the submission of planning applications. Our expertise in working closely with planning authorities ensures a higher probability of success.

Conclusion:

Obtaining planning permission for our new home project in North West London marks a significant milestone for our architecture studio. The approval signifies not only our ability to navigate challenging conditions and deliver sustainable designs but also our commitment to creating exceptional spaces that enrich local communities. We are grateful for the opportunity to embark on the next phase of this project and look forward to updating you on its progress. Stay tuned for more exciting developments.

Learn more about the planning permission process and how we can assist you in achieving your self-build dreams in our comprehensive article here.

If you would like to talk through your project with the team, please do get in touch at mail@risedesignstudio.co.uk or give us a call on 020 3947 5886

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