Residential Architects
Choosing the right, modern residential architects is the foundation of a successful renovation or new home. We combine planning expertise, design clarity, and a trusted professional network to deliver refined homes with confidence, efficiency, and discretion.
Pioneering Contemporary Residential Design
Modern residential design demands more than visual simplicity—it requires intelligent planning, technical expertise, and spaces that adapt effortlessly to modern living.
At AURA, we build contemporary homes with clear architecture, thoughtful space planning, and a balance of aesthetics and performance.
Our approach focuses on clean lines, expansive glazing, and carefully considered proportions that maximise natural light and strengthen the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. We design flexible layouts that support the way modern families live today, combining open, flowing spaces with quieter zones for privacy, work, and retreat.
Through bespoke joinery, subtle level changes, and carefully positioned structural elements, we create homes that feel open and connected without losing definition or functionality.
Alongside the design vision, we use sustainable construction methods, energy-efficient systems, and discreet smart-home technologies to ensure every residence meets the highest standards.
The result is a collection of contemporary homes that are elegant, future-ready, and tailored to the demands of modern life—designed to remain both visually striking and highly functional for years to come.
The Art of High End Residential Design
Exceptional homes are defined not by excess, but by precision, proportion, and purpose. At AURA, we specialise in high-end residential design for homeowners seeking spaces that feel both architecturally striking and deeply personal.
Our work is centred on creating homes that elevate everyday living while delivering long-term quality and value. Every project begins with a clear understanding of how the home will be used—from family life and entertaining to privacy, wellness, and future adaptability.
This allows us to shape spaces that are elegant in appearance and highly functional in practice. Dramatic architectural features such as double-height entrances, sculptural staircases, and expansive glazing are carefully integrated to create impact without compromising comfort.
Alongside the architectural vision, we coordinate the technical detail that brings luxury homes to life, including specialist lighting design, discreet smart-home integration, bespoke joinery, and premium material specifications.
From basement leisure suites in Wandsworth to refined loft and penthouse transformations in Kensington, our focus is on delivering homes of enduring sophistication, crafted around the ambitions and lifestyle of each client.
From Concept to Completion: Our Architectural Framework
Exceptional residential projects are built on technical precision, strategic planning, and careful oversight at every stage. Before design begins, we undertake detailed site surveys and a thorough review of the property’s existing conditions, planning context, and structural constraints.
This early-stage analysis ensures every design decision is informed by accurate data and a clear understanding of what is achievable. Our approach is rooted in close collaboration with each client.
By understanding how you use space, move through your home, and plan for the future, we develop layouts that feel intuitive, functional, and tailored to your lifestyle. Every aspect of the design is carefully considered—from natural light and circulation to privacy, storage, and long-term adaptability.
Planning and approvals require both expertise and foresight. With extensive experience navigating local authority requirements, planning policy, and architectural precedent, we manage the approvals process strategically, helping to reduce delays and minimise risk.
Our role is to identify potential issues early and guide the project forward with confidence. Our involvement continues throughout construction, where we provide professional oversight to protect design quality and safeguard your investment.
Through contract administration, consultant coordination, and regular site monitoring, we ensure that design intent, material quality, and workmanship standards are maintained from concept through to completion.
Architecture of Permanence: Homes Built to Endure
The most successful homes are those that remain relevant, beautiful, and functional for decades. At AURA, our design philosophy is centred on longevity—creating residences that are not driven by short-term trends, but by proportion, material integrity, and enduring architectural quality.
Every project begins with a careful understanding of context. We consider the character of the site, the surrounding architecture, and the way our clients want to live both now and in the future. This allows us to design homes that feel grounded, personal, and naturally connected to their setting.
Our work spans the full spectrum of residential design, from the sensitive restoration of heritage and listed properties to contemporary new-build homes designed for long-term performance. This breadth of experience allows us to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction methods, energy-efficient systems, and future-focused design thinking.
Whether restoring an existing property or creating a new luxury residence from the ground up, our focus remains the same: to deliver homes of lasting character, architectural clarity, and enduring value—spaces that continue to reward both daily living and long-term investment.
Luxury Residential Architects for the Evolving Lifestyle
The way we live has changed. Today’s homes are expected to support far more than traditional domestic life—they must accommodate work, wellness, entertaining, privacy, and future flexibility. At AURA, we design architecture that responds to these evolving demands, creating spaces that adapt seamlessly to modern lifestyles.
Our work extends beyond conventional residential design to include live-work environments, mixed-use spaces, and homes that support multiple functions within a single, cohesive layout. Whether designing a bespoke family residence, a private home office suite, or a hybrid living environment, our focus is on creating architecture that remains practical, elegant, and relevant over time.
This cross-sector experience allows us to bring a broader level of technical thinking and spatial planning into every residential project. By combining the innovation often found in commercial design with the warmth and refinement expected in a private home, we create spaces that support both lifestyle and long-term value.
Every project is shaped around how our clients live today and how those needs may evolve in the future—delivering architecture that is flexible, forward-looking, and built to support the realities of modern life.
A Clear and Open Approach
Working with a residential architect should feel informed and straightforward, not overwhelming. Many homeowners tell us that the process can seem confusing, often due to technical language and a lack of transparency.
When AURA Architecture was founded by Ben Richards in 2017, the practice was built around changing that experience. Our aim was simple: to make residential architecture clearer, more accessible, and easier to navigate for homeowners.
We believe transparency builds confidence. That’s why our fees are clearly outlined on our website, and why we regularly publish guides, blogs, and FAQs to explain the design and planning process in plain language. We also created the AURA 10-Step Process, available to watch on YouTube or download free, allowing clients to understand each stage of their project at their own pace.
Building a Collaborative Architectural Partnership
Exceptional architecture begins with trust. We believe the most successful projects are shaped by a transparent, collaborative relationship between client and architect—one built on clarity, expertise, and mutual respect.
Our role extends far beyond design. As modern residential architects, we guide you through every stage of the process, translating lifestyle aspirations into carefully considered architecture while navigating planning requirements, technical standards, and financial parameters with precision. In return, open dialogue and timely feedback allow the process to move forward with confidence and ease.
By valuing professional insight and maintaining a thoughtful, two-way conversation, we create an experience that is both efficient and rewarding—transforming an initial idea into a refined architectural outcome that exceeds expectations.
Our Online Reviews
Aura Architecture & Interiors
3, Lion Yard, Tremadoc Rd, London
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Gabby from Aura Architecture is very friendly and skilled – would 100% recommend working with her!
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Graham, Mark and the Aura team have supported us on the planning permission and design of our building works. The service has been 2nd to none - white glove level. Mark our main contact is responsive and helpful. Using Aura was a superb … More decision and looking forward to completing the journey with them over the next months.
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As main contractors with appreciation for good and efficient design, we were very impressed with Aura from day 1.
The tender pack had more information than some other projects we have done at completion, all the information is precise and … More carefully considered.
On top of that their ongoing project management is flexible and approachable.
Hope we get to work with them again in the future. -
We instructed Aura Architects for a self-build project, they have seamlessly guided us through the process with great care and detail. We have thoroughly enjoyed with Francesco who was been extremely helpful and patient with the project, … More getting us to planning approval which took over 2 years but this did not deter his dedication to the project in what has been a very challenging process.
The whole process has been handled professionally with great communication and understanding from Aura who have taken great care to ensure we are happy and understand each of the key elements.
We are absolutely thrilled with what Aura have created for us and we can not wait to see the project come to life.
I am pleased to recommend Aura for any of your architectural needs! They have been fab and most importantly reliable! Thanks very much and a special thanks to Francesco.
Thanks, J&D. -
I used Aura for a side return and rear extension, and a renovation of my first floor bathroom. I wanted something unique and characterful, with lots of natural light. Aura really went above and beyond my expectations, creating me a space … More that truly is more than I could have imagined.
From the initial consultation, where I felt immediately at ease with the team, to the transparency in their costings, all the way through the design process and project management, Aura have been consistently professional, communicative and flexible.
It certainly hasn’t been an easy time for anyone in the industry, but Aura’s solution-first attitude and their adaptability made it so easy to work with them through lockdowns, supply chain challenges, pingdemics and everything in between. It was a true pleasure to work with the team - they really do their utmost to make the process as straightforward, simple and enjoyable as possible.
I’d not hesitate to recommend Aura. They team are the perfect balance of creative and practical, imagination and solutions, to make whatever dream you have come to life.
Our Blog
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a residential architect for a home extension or renovation?
Yes. A residential architect helps maximise space, improve layout, increase natural light, and ensure your project complies with planning and building regulations. Whether you are planning an extension, loft conversion, basement, or full renovation, professional architectural guidance helps protect both design quality and long-term property value.
What types of residential projects do you work on?
We work across a wide range of residential projects, including house extensions, loft conversions, basement developments, full property refurbishments, listed building restorations, and bespoke new-build homes. Each project is tailored to the client’s lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
Can you help with planning permission?
Yes. We manage the planning process on your behalf, including preparing drawings, submitting applications, liaising with the local authority, and responding to planning queries where required. Our experience helps identify potential issues early and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Are you RIBA chartered architects?
Yes, we are RIBA-Chartered Architects, which means we meet professional standards for design quality, ethics, and technical competence.
Do you work on listed buildings and heritage properties?
Yes. We have experience working on listed buildings, heritage homes, and properties within conservation areas. These projects require a sensitive architectural approach, balancing design ambition with planning constraints and the preservation of original character.
How much does a residential architect cost?
Architectural fees vary depending on the scale, complexity, and stage of service required. Costs will differ for extensions, renovations, and new-build homes. Following an initial consultation, we provide a clear written fee proposal tailored to your project requirements.
Do you provide support during construction?
Yes. Our services can continue throughout the build phase, including technical drawings, consultant coordination, contract administration, and site monitoring. This helps ensure the finished result reflects the approved design and maintains high standards of workmanship.
How long does a residential project take?
Timescales vary depending on project size and planning requirements. Smaller extensions may take several months from concept to completion, while full renovations and new-build homes often require a longer programme. We provide realistic timelines during the early design stage.
How do I choose the right residential architect?
Look for a practice with proven experience in projects similar to your own, a clear design process, transparent fees, and strong planning expertise. Reviewing completed projects and understanding how the architect manages construction and approvals is also important.
Can you help find a builder?
Yes. We can assist with tendering, reviewing builder quotes, and helping you select the right contractor for your project.
Do you offer interior design as well?
Yes. Interior design services can be integrated into the architectural process to ensure a cohesive design from structure to finishes. We also offer interior design as a standalone service.