flat refurbishment Architects in London

Refurbishing a flat or apartment is different from renovating a house. With shared structures, communal spaces and additional layers of approval, the process requires both creative design and careful planning.

At CATO creative, we specialise in transforming London flats and apartments, bringing together architecture, interior design and construction coordination. From layouts and light to finishes and flow, every detail is considered so your refurbishment adds genuine value to your life and to your property.

As part of our end-to-end service, CATO creative will design how your spaces flow, how light is used, and how every detail comes together. We will make sure that every stage is considered, connected and coordinated so you can focus on living, whilst we focus on delivering your new home

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Your Flat, Completely transformed

Ready to start your flat transformation?

Ready to see what’s possible for your flat refurbishment? As a full service architecture and interior design practice, we help our clients plan, design and deliver their projects. Simply send us a message, email or call us and one of the team will be in touch to arrange a free, no obligation, project consultation.

Our experience covers the full spectrum of London flats: grand mansion blocks, Victorian and Georgian townhouses converted into separate apartments, purpose-built ex-council flats, and large managed developments. Each type of property comes with its own challenges ranging from heritage features and service routes to receiving deliveries and meeting modern standards. By combining architecture, interior design and construction expertise, we ensure your refurbishment is carefully planned, beautifully designed and seamlessly delivered.

We have completed full renovations refurbishment projects in Barnes, Bayswater, Chelsea, Chiswick, Clerkenwell, Earls Court, Earlsfield, Fulham, Hampstead Heath, Hampton Court, Hammersmith, High Street Kensington, Islington, Kensington, Kingston-upon-Thames, Knightsbridge, Parsons Green, Pimlico, Putney, Richmond, Soho, South Kensington, Southfields, Teddington, Wandsworth, West Hampstead, Westminster, Wimbledon and more

Planning Made Simple

What to Consider in a Flat Refurbishment

Flats come with unique requirements that go beyond the design itself. Most projects will need a Licence to Alter (LTA) or landlord’s consent before works can begin, and for extensions, planning permission is usually essential. If your flat is listed, even small internal alterations may require Listed Building Consent. Management companies often also insist on method statements and schedules of condition to safeguard communal areas and protect neighbouring residents.

Technical details are equally important. Wooden floors often require acoustic testing and additional soundproofing. Drainage, ventilation and other services may need to be carefully planned in line with the stacking of the building to avoid disruption or disputes with flats above or below. By addressing these approvals and technical considerations early, we help you avoid unnecessary costs, delays, and redesigns.

Why Choose CATO creative for Your Flat Refurbishment

Flat refurbishments often require multiple layers of approval. From planning permission for extensions to Listed Building Consent for small internal changes in heritage properties. Most flats also need a Licence to Alter or landlord’s consent before works can begin, and management company may require acoustic testing for wooden floors, method statements and protection schedules for communal areas.

At CATO creative we have a 100% success rate in securing planning and approval for our projects. We prepare all drawings and reports, coordinate with freeholders, management company and local authorities, and bring in trusted specialists where needed. By getting this right first time, we de-risk your project, avoiding costly redesigns, refusals and delays.

At CATO creative, we believe every flat refurbishment should feel light, spacious and seamlessly integrated. The design of a flat is always developed in line with what is achievable, balancing your aspirations with structural considerations, the requirements of your lease, and the conditions of any Licence to Alter or planning permission.

Within these parameters, we focus on creating layouts that improve flow, maximise storage and bring natural light deeper into your home. Open-plan areas can be introduced where possible, while zoning ensures flexibility for family life, entertaining or quiet workspaces. Finishes, joinery and lighting are then carefully chosen to complement the character of the building as well as your personality. The result is a home that is beautifully finished, practical and works for everyday living, while adding long-term value to your property.

Design by Architects, Built by Specialists

Every flat refurbishment begins with carefully considered design. As architects and interior designers, we bring creativity, technical knowledge and an understanding of permissions together from the start, ensuring the layouts, finishes and details are both beautiful and achievable.

When it comes to construction, we work with trusted contractors and specialist consultants experienced in flats and apartment buildings. From structural alterations to acoustic upgrades and service re-routing, every stage is coordinated to protect the wider building while delivering your new home to the highest standard. By planning thoroughly and managing costs from the outset, we de-risk the process, helping you avoid issues with the Management Company, delays, overspends and costly mistakes.

Light, Spacious and Tailored to You

Full Design and Project Coordination

Following the RIBA Plan of Work, we can guide your renovation or refurbishment from concept through to completion. This includes feasibility studies, design development, statutory approvals, interior design specification, tendering, and on-site coordination. We handle the details so you can focus on life and enjoy your transformed home.

Ready to start your Flat Refurbishment?

Ready to explore what’s possible for your flat or apartment? As a full-service architecture and interior design practice, we help London homeowners plan, design and deliver complete renovations and refurbishments that add space and lasting value. Simply send us a message, ping over an email, or call us, and one of the team will be in touch to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.

Here’s how we can help:

• Project feasibility
• License to Alter / Landlords Consent
• Planning permission
• Building Regulations & construction drawings
• Architectural & interior design
• Specifying fixtures, fittings & equipment (FF&E)
• Scope of works, tender & contract preparation
• Project delivery