Do I Need an Architect for My Home Extension?

Deciding to extend your home is a significant step — whether it’s to gain more space, improve how your house functions, or add long-term value to your property. One of the first questions many homeowners ask is whether they need an architect. While not a legal requirement, the benefits of working with a qualified architect…

The Value of Pre-Application Advice

Navigating the planning system can feel uncertain, especially for residential clients or small-scale developers unfamiliar with its nuances. One of the most effective tools in reducing that uncertainty is seeking pre-application advice from the local planning authority before submitting a full application. At Walters Architects, we often recommend this early engagement as a strategic step…

Multi-Home Developments

Designing multiple new homes within a single development requires a master planned approach that addresses layout efficiency, planning policy, and market expectations. At Walters Architects, we have experience of delivering multi-home developments that balance individual house design with the overall character and functionality of the wider site. Site Layout and New House Design Approach Successful…

New Builds Within Conservation Areas

Building within a conservation area presents a unique challenge, requiring a careful balance between modern functionality, contemporary design and historic sensitivity. These designated areas exist to protect architectural heritage, meaning any new development must respect the established character while meeting modern standards for design and sustainability. At Walters Architects, we specialise in navigating this complex…

Grade II Listed Building – Rothley Project

Working with listed buildings requires a deep understanding of heritage, history, context and considerate design, and an ability to navigate complex planning challenges. Our new Grade II listed project in Rothley, Leicester is a prime example of how issues can arise when these factors are not properly considered—and how we can step in to help…

How to Choose the Right Architect for Your Project

Choosing the right architect is one of the most important decisions you will make when embarking on a new project. Whether you are planning a residential extension, alterations to a listed building, or a commercial development, the architect you select will shape not only the design but also the experience and outcome of the entire…

Function and Aesthetics in Industrial Design

Industrial design has traditionally prioritized function over form, with the primary focus being on operational efficiency and practicality. At Walters Architects, we believe industrial spaces can be both highly functional and aesthetic, reflecting the identity of the businesses they serve while supporting operational success. The Evolution of Industrial Spaces Historically, industrial buildings were utilitarian structures,…

Planning Permission Simplified: Why use an Architect?

Securing planning permission is often seen as one of the most daunting aspects of a project. The idea of navigating regulations and responding to council feedback can feel overwhelming, especially for first timers. At Walters Architects, we aim to demystify the process and guide clients through every step to ensure a smooth and successful outcome….

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Extending Listed Buildings

Extending a listed building is an exciting opportunity to blend old with new, however, it is also a complex process that requires careful thought, sensitivity, and expertise. At Walters Architects, we specialize in designing extensions that celebrate the character of listed buildings while seamlessly integrating contemporary needs, ensuring the result is both respectful and transformative….

Planning Approval at Appeal

Walters Architects have won 2 Planning approvals at appeal this week. The practice doesn’t often go to appeal (4 in 18 years) because we pride ourselves on getting planning approval first time. In fact we very rarely receive a refusal. Our current planning success stands at approximate 95%. Also, the process can be very unpredictable…

Walters Architects Prize 2023

WAP is back! This years Walters Architects Prize was open to year 2 architecture students at De Montfort University. The prize was awarded to the student who produced the most coherent portfolio and was able to communicate and develop their ideas through sketch. And the Winner is… Our 2023 winner is Caleb Ernst, congratulations! Caleb…

Recent Planning Successes

Planning Approval Walters Architects are pleased to announce we have received planning approval for a number of projects across several scales, sectors and local authorities. We look forward to working with the clients on the next stages of their projects. Future Projects If you would like to learn more about the projects we do or would like…

What is a Feasibility Study?

What is a Feasibility Study? Architectural feasibility studies are conducted to determine if a proposed building is viable and practical from an architectural perspective before any detailed design work is undertaken. These studies help clients assess whether a design concept can be successfully implemented within the given constraints and requirements. They are particularly useful when…

How Much Does an Extension Cost?

Balancing Time, Cost and Quality All construction projects are fundamentally defined by the balance of time, cost and quality. The time to deliver the project, the cost represents the amount of money or resources available (the budget including fees and VAT) and quality applies to the technique, materials and bespoke nature of the project. It…

Should I use a Local Architect

Walters Architects are frequently asked, ‘Should I use a Local Architect?’ The answer really depends on what it is you expect from the architect and how involved you would like them to be. Most clients think that the architect will need to make endless site visits but this is not entirely true. They will visit…

RIBA House of the Year 2022

RIBA House of the Year The RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) House of the Year 2022 award process is underway and currently being televised in partnership with Channel 4’s Grand Designs. Architectural Awards The TV series showcases of the best one-off houses designed by architects in the UK, celebrating excellence and innovation in home…

Love Architecture Festival 2022

Love Architecture Festival 2022, Leicester’s annual architecture festival is underway, as part of the city’s Design Season. Leicestershire and Rutland Society of Architects are hosting a number of events across the month, in celebration of local architects and local architecture. Events are free and booked via the society’s eventbrite booking page. Walters Architects look forward…

What is Paragraph 80?

Paragraph 80 – National Planning Policy The term Paragraph 80 refers to a section of the 2021 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which sets out the principles for erecting a new isolated dwelling in the open countryside. The policy allows the possibility to gain planning permission for an exceptional piece of design that reflects the…

Do I Need an Architect?

Why Ask? Walters Architects are often asked ‘Do I need an Architect?’ and we totally understand why. Usually, people don’t really know what an architect does. It’s quite easy really, you need an architect to either design a building or to achieve permission to build. Possibly both. It’s probably best to be clear at this…

Apprentice Architect

This summer marks the first full year completed by our apprentice architect at Walters Architects. Here we intend to provide a short insight into the experience from the perspective of both the student and practice. The Apprentice Architect Will came to the office 3 years ago wanting practical experience whilst studying a BA (Hons) full…

Celebrating the Best

This morning (19th March 2021) our Principal, Kevin Walters, will be introducing the WAP (Walters Architect Prize) to BA 3 Architecture students at Leeds Beckett University for 2021. Following the introduction of this year’s award, we will be attending a series of student Crits to understand what they have been doing the last few months….

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