We are delighted to announce that Jon Handley will be joining us to provide exclusive technical design services. Jon's extensive experience and technical knowledge has been a vital part of the practice over the last year and we are looking forward to continuing our work together.

MJH Architects recently secured permitted development approval for a 1930s detached house in Guildford.  The approval covers a single storey rear extension and an additional 40 cubic metres of habitable loft space, via the addition of a full-width dormer.

The project is a good example of the various options available for homeowners under Permitted Development Rights (PDR).  PDR allows homeowners to extend their homes without seeking planning permission, provided certain guidelines regarding size, height, distance to boundaries and materials are followed.  Please note, if you live in a Conservation Area, AONB or own a Listed Building, your PDR will be limited.

If your house is eligible for PDR we would recommend securing a Certificate of Lawfulness from your local authority as this could prevent potential disputes with neighbours and legal issues, should you decide to move.

Please click on the link below to Kosma and Mark's detailed guide to Permitted Development.

UK Permitted Development rules - YouTube

Our two storey side and single story extension at Mead Close in Egham has now been completed. The extension has transformed a tired looking 1960's house both externally and internally. The works also included extensive alterations to the internal layout. The client is delighted with the result and the house is now fit for modern family life. The design was constrained by a triangular site, which was overcome by opening up the downstairs plan to create an improved flow of space. The work was completed by DDL builders.

Work is also progressing on target with our project at Partridge Close, Ewshot.  The project is being run in two stages.

The first stage is the erection of a new 50 sqm detached garage followed by the conversion of the existing double integral garage.  Work started on site last month and the first stage is due for completion next month.  The proposal was secured under a joint planning application.

Our project in Dene Lane, Farnham, is making great progress on site with Durrant Construction.  Lee's team are on track to complete the 250 sqm extension and remodelling works by the end of September.

In the next two weeks they will be creating the link between the extension and the existing house.  We will keep you updated as work progresses, as once completed the extension and remodelling works will have completely transformed a tired 1950s house into an exciting new family home.

A new first for MJH Architects has been achieved with the approval of extensions for two semi-detached houses in Camberley.  This application for both houses was made under a single joint householder application.

This unique project will involve extending two semi-detached houses dating from the 1930s.  Both schemes will add nearly 100 sqm of new floor space on the ground and first floor.  With close collaboration between MJH Architects, the clients and the contractor, both projects are due to start on site in late spring.

If you live in a semi-detached house, are considering an extension project and have a good relationship with your neighbour, you too may wish to consider a joint planning application.  This could be an attractive option to secure extra space and enable you to make savings to your build costs.  Both projects will be run as separate contracts with the appointed contractor.

Please contact Kate or Mark if you would like further information about the advantages of double extensions.

MJH Architects' has secured planning approval for a side return and rear extension in Shalden, for an exclusive 5 bedroom property. Permission was secured two weeks earlier than the due decision date. The extensions will provide extra ground floor space for the living room and utility area, ensuring that these key areas are commensurate with a 250 sqm house. The proposal is in keeping with the contemporary vernacular style of the house, which enjoys wonderful views of the Hampshire/Surrey countryside. Work is due to start on site later this year. We will keep you updated as construction progresses.

MJH Architects' has secured planning permission for an exciting contemporary single storey extension in Four Marks. The scheme is due to start on site in late spring/early summer and will add much needed ground floor space to the three-storey dwelling. The proposal with its 3m high vaulted ceiling and wide opening sliding doors, will command excellent views of Chawton Park Woods. The design will future proof the client's lifestyle and improve their enjoyment of the property.

MJH Architects has recently completed an exciting concept design for a three storey townhouse in London. The owner's brief was to improve the appearance and internal configuration of the house. The new design has moved the living room from the first floor to the ground floor, which has in turn allowed for an additional bedroom and a much improved relationship with their house and the garden. Over the summer months, the garden will in effect, become an additional room to the house. The re-design has allowed a growing family to establish a long-term family home. Visual images were produced by our Kosma Rybak.

We recently secured planning permission for a 200sqm home extension in Farnham.  Work is due to start on site in early spring.

The proposal will transform a tired 1950s house into an exciting modern dwelling.  The works will provide a new wing and extensive remodelling to create a harmonious design.  The key features will include a large open plan kitchen and dining space, a split ground floor level and a double height entrance hall with feature stairs.  The ground floor layout has been organised into a a flowing series of spaces with a clear demarcation of shared and private areas.  The design style is based on a contemporary vernacular appearance.

The proposal, when completed, will be one of the town's most desirable contemporary properties.