Residential Architects
Choosing the right 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.
Luxury Residential Architect
Bespoke Design for High-End Living – Luxury residential architecture is not about excess—it is about intent. At AURA, we design homes that feel calm, considered, and quietly exceptional. As premium designers, our focus is on creating private sanctuaries where space, light, and craftsmanship work in harmony.
We introduce double-height volumes to bring a sense of arrival and understated grandeur, while discreet, invisible technology ensures the home functions effortlessly behind the scenes. Material selection is deliberate and refined, with premium finishes chosen not only for their beauty, but for the story they tell and the longevity they offer.
From bespoke basement spas in Wandsworth to elegant loft suites in Kensington, every project is tailored to reflect the individuality, lifestyle, and success of its owner—resulting in homes that feel deeply personal and unmistakably refined.
Modern Residential Architect
Innovation, Sustainability, and Contemporary Style – At AURA Architecture, we are a modern residential architect specialising in refined, luxury homes. Our approach to contemporary residential design combines architectural precision with an elevated lifestyle focus, creating bespoke living spaces defined by light, proportion, and material quality.
Luxury design increasingly favours seamless indoor–outdoor living, expansive structural glazing, and elegant minimalist detailing. We incorporate Broken Plan living through subtle level changes and bespoke joinery, allowing spaces to flow while maintaining privacy and visual clarity.
Sustainability and innovation underpin our work, integrating energy-efficient construction, premium materials, and discreet smart-home technology. The result is sophisticated modern residences that feel timeless, exclusive, and uniquely tailored to their owners.
A Refined Design Process
Exceptional residential architecture begins with precision. Each project starts with a detailed survey of the property and site, ensuring every design decision is informed by accurate data and a clear understanding of context.
The design process is deeply collaborative. Time is spent understanding how you live, move, and experience space, allowing the architecture to feel intuitive rather than imposed. On-site discussions play a key role in shaping homes that respond naturally to light, proportion, and lifestyle.
Planning requires insight as much as expertise. An architect with local experience brings a clear understanding of policy, precedent, and council expectations, helping applications progress with confidence.
For clients seeking a seamless journey, continued architectural involvement during construction ensures design intent, quality, and craftsmanship are maintained—supported by a trusted network of specialist consultants and trades.
Designing Homes with Lasting Character
Every project begins with a clear design ethos rooted in clarity, craftsmanship, and permanence. These values guide how spaces are shaped, how materials are selected, and how homes are experienced over time.
Our process is led by careful listening. By understanding how you live today—and how you want to live in the future—we create homes that feel considered, personal, and quietly confident.
Collaboration remains central from the earliest concepts through to completion, ensuring each decision supports both lifestyle and function.
We work across the full range of residential projects, from contemporary new-build homes to the sensitive transformation of heritage and listed properties.
Whether refining an existing structure or creating something entirely new, we balance creative vision with technical precision to deliver homes defined by quality, restraint, and enduring appeal.
Modern Home Architect
As a modern home architects, we design spaces that respond to how people live and work today—and how they will in the future. Our work is rooted in clarity, adaptability, and thoughtful design, creating architecture that performs as well as it looks.
We provide architectural services across both residential and commercial projects, from contemporary homes to workplaces and mixed-use spaces. Every project begins with understanding purpose, experience, and long-term value.
Driven by a dynamic, collaborative team, we combine fresh thinking with proven expertise to deliver architecture that is forward-looking, practical, and built to endure.
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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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. -
Gabby from Aura Architecture is very friendly and skilled – would 100% recommend working with her!
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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. -
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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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
FAQs
1. What does our studio do?
We design and oversee the construction of homes. They ensure your home meets safety standards, stays within budget, and aligns with your vision.
2. Do I need an architect for a home extension or refurbishment?
Yes. An architect helps maximise space, improve layout and natural light, ensure compliance with planning regulations, and add long-term value to your property.
3. What types of residential projects do you work on?
We work on a huge variety of projects, ranging from internal alterations to large extensions and basements. We also have huge experience working on heritage buildings, as well as complete new builds.
4. Are you RIBA chartered architects?
Yes, we are RIBA chartered architects, which means we meet professional standards for design quality, ethics and technical competence.
5. Can you help with planning permission?
Yes. We manage the full planning application process, liaising with local authorities and preparing all required drawings and documents.
6. Do you work on projects in conservation areas or listed buildings?
Yes. We have experience working with conservation areas and listed buildings, carefully balancing design innovation with heritage and planning constraints.
7. What areas do you cover?
We provide residential architecture services across London and the surrounding Home Counties, including Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.
8. How sustainable are your designs?
Sustainability is central to our approach. We design energy-efficient homes that maximise natural light, improve thermal performance and reduce environmental impact.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. How much does a residential architect cost?
Fees vary depending on the size, complexity and scope of the project. We provide clear, tailored fee proposals after an initial consultation.
12. What is your residential design process?
Our process typically includes an initial consultation, design development, planning submission, technical drawings, builder coordination and site monitoring.
13. How long does a residential project take?
Timelines vary depending on project scale and planning requirements. Small extensions may only take a few months, while larger refurbishments or new builds take longer.