Planning

As an ARB registered practise, our team of RIBA chartered architects create homes that are beautiful, practical and as individual as the people who live in them. Shaped by our clients lifestyle, aspirations, and how they want to feel at home, our end-to-end architecture service delivers across every RIBA project stage, connecting everything and everybody together.

Pre-application drawings and 3D visuals for proposed extension with timber cladding, ridge skylights, and aluminium glazing. Full refurbishment and extension by architects with planning permission and interior design

Planning Permission

When it comes to planning permission, we prepare and submit all necessary drawings and documentation, including design statements and supporting material specific to the project. Our team of ARB registered architects manage the process with the local authority, responding to queries, and monitoring progress to help secure approval. Whether it’s a full application, householder approval or permitted development, we adopt the right strategy for the size and complexity of the project. We engage and guide our clients through every step of the process.

Contemporary loft extension completed under permitted development, featuring timber cladding and brickwork. Full refurbishment and extension by architects with interior design and planning compliance

Listed Building Consent

Working with listed buildings requires careful consideration, specialist knowledge, and a respectful design approach. We prepare and submit all drawings, heritage statements, and supporting information needed to gain Listed Building Consent. Tailored to the history and character of the property, our team of ARB registered architects manage the process with conservation and planning officers, ensuring proposals are sensitive, well-justified, and compliant. Whether it’s internal alterations, extensions, or restoration, we guide our clients through the complexities with confidence and care.

Collaboration with Specialists

Some projects require additional expertise. Whether it’s navigating complex planning policy, addressing conservation concerns, or strengthening an application with technical input, we have trusted, established relationships with experienced planning consultants, conservation specialists, and heritage experts who we bring in when needed. This help us shape robust strategies, ensure compliance with relevant guidance, and gives the project the best chance of success. We coordinate the team and manage the process from end-to-end, ensuring every contribution helps bring the design to life.

Kings Arms Hotel in Hampton Court, a heritage refurbishment project delivered with Listed Building Consent (LBC), planning permission, and architects-led interior design as part of a full refurbishment and extension
Planning drawings showing front and rear proposed elevations for full refurbishment and extension, including glazing, cladding, and AC proposals by architects and interior designers

Pre-application advice helps identifying planning risks and opportunities before a full application is submitted. By Engaging with the local authority we seek out valuable feedback on design, policy compliance, and site-specific considerations. Our service typically includes outline proposals, initial drawings, a written submission to the council, and a meeting with a case officer. We often use this approach for larger, more complex projects as it helps to build a stronger case for future approval.

Pre-application advice

Permitted Development

Not all projects require full planning permission — many fall under permitted development rights. We help our clients understand what is possible under current regulations, advising on extension limits, roof conversions, outbuildings, and changes of use. Where needed, we prepare drawings and apply for a lawful development certificate to confirm the proposal is compliant. This approach can save time and reduce risk, while still delivering beautifully designed, high-quality homes.

Structural design drawing for reinforced concrete basement retaining walls, showing sections A-A and B-B. Part of full refurbishment and extension with planning permission by architects and interior designers

Licence to Alter

For leasehold properties, most alterations, internal or external, require formal consent from the freeholder, often through a Licence to Alter. We  prepare clear, accurate drawings and written proposals that meet both our client’s design ambitions and the legal requirements. Our design team liaise with managing agents, surveyors, and freeholders to help secure approval and avoid delays. Whether it’s structural changes, kitchen layouts, or bathroom upgrades, we guide our clients through the process.

Exterior of Caroline House, London. Interior design and full refurbishment project carried out under License to Alter (LTA) with architects and planning permission

Planning Appeals & Enforcement

When planning permission is refused or enforcement action is taken, it's important to respond with a clear strategy. Following a full analysis of the enforcement, we advise our clients on the best course of action, and prepare robust appeal submissions, including statements, drawings, and supporting evidence. Whether through written representations, hearings, or inquiries, we represent the case professionally and clearly. If you’re facing enforcement, we work quickly to understand the issues, open a dialogue with the local authority, and explore the best way forward.

Do you need planning or any other kind of permission?

If you are thinking about submitting a planning application or need some initial planning advice, the architecture team at CATO creative are here to help. We have submitted over 200 planning applications across London boroughs ranging from simple loft extensions to complete new build projects.

Go on, it could be a fantastic decision...