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 often go well beyond drawings.

Understanding the Scope

Smaller home extensions may fall under what’s known as Permitted Development Rights — meaning you might not need formal planning permission, provided the design meets specific criteria set by government guidelines. However, these rights can be complex, particularly in conservation areas or if your property has already been extended in the past. We often meet with clients who believed their project was straightforward, only to discover late-stage planning or construction issues that could have been avoided with earlier professional input.

Design That Works

An architect doesn’t just ‘draw up’ what you already have in mind. At Walters Architects, our role is to help you define what you really need from your space — often unlocking possibilities you hadn’t considered. We assess how an extension integrates with your existing home, how materials are used, how spaces connect, and what the long-term value and usability of the design will be. A good home extension isn’t just about extra square metres — it’s about making your home work better for you. From reconfiguring internal layouts to advising on materials and detailing, we ensure the design complements the house both aesthetically and practically.

Planning, Regulations and Buildability

Many homeowners begin with a sketch or a builder’s advice, only to find the practical and legal aspects of the build are far more involved than expected. This is often where projects stall or go over budget. An architect can help you navigate these complexities from the outset, identifying potential red flags and offering solutions before they become problems.

Understanding how planning policy applies to your site specifically is another area where professional advice proves valuable. Things like restrictive covenants, conservation considerations, or existing extensions can all affect what’s possible — and what’s likely to be approved. Even if your project is eligible for Permitted Development, it’s not always straightforward, especially when context, neighbours, or specific site conditions come into play.

By involving an architect early, you gain the reassurance that your project is viable, compliant, and designed to perform well in the long term. That kind of clarity can save time, money and stress — If you have a new project in and around Leicester, visit our website, or call our Leicester (0116 254 1830) or Oakham (01572 335066) office to arrange an initial consultation.