Finding the right architect for your Brentwood home extension

A new modern home extension starts with the architect, and if it doesn’t get off to the best start possible, the other stages will be compromised. Choosing experienced architects in Brentwood is key to avoiding costly mistakes. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot potential issues early and find the best solutions for a smooth, successful project.

A skilled house extension architect in Brentwood guiding homeowners through every stage of their home extension, from design to planning permission and build.
An expert house extension architect in Brentwood, offering comprehensive services for home extension projects, including design, planning, and build coordination.

How to choose the right architects in Brentwood for your home extension

Good old-fashioned recommendations can never go amiss. If you know someone who has had a good experience with architects in Brentwood, that’s a great place to start. However, don’t judge the quality of an architect solely on a handsome set of plans—decide this after the build, not before. A successful architectural design service involves many variables, and well-detailed, accurate plans are just one part of the process.


Brentwood architects


It’s not just about getting drawings done; Brentwood architects should guide you through planning permission, structural design, and ensuring the build runs smoothly. Poorly thought-out designs can lead to costly delays and unexpected issues on-site, so working with an architect who understands the full process is key. A well-planned home extension in Brentwood isn’t just about looks, it needs to be practical, cost-effective, and fully compliant with building regulations. Learn more about building regulations for home extensions in Brentwood on the government website

What to look for when hiring an architect in Brentwood

Checking online for Google reviews and having a good read through can give a strong indication of the quality of local architects. If an architect has very few reviews, it may suggest they are either inexperienced or haven’t completed enough projects to warrant positive feedback. A well-established architect should have a track record of satisfied clients and consistent five-star ratings. Here are some key points to look out for:

Google reviews

Google reviews are the most secure way to determine if your local Brentwood architect has left a good impression with homeowners. A strong track record of positive feedback shows reliability, good communication, and well-executed designs. We ask all customers to leave an honest review once their plans are complete and they are ready to build, helping future clients make informed decisions while ensuring we continue delivering top-quality architectural design.

Complete service

Using an architectural company that offers a complete service will save you time and money on essentials like structural engineering and building regulation drawings. If they’re willing to take full responsibility, there’s no room for blame-shifting. The last thing you want is to be caught in the middle of a builder and an architect arguing over who’s at fault.

Previous work

Seeing an architect’s previous work either in person, online case studies or an online portfolio will show you what you are likely to receive. If you found the architect on Google rather than through a recommendation, consider asking to speak with a past or current client to hear about their experience working with architects in Brentwood.

Communication matters

If a local architect is slow to respond and offers little help without you having to chase them, it can be a red flag. Clear and efficient communication from the start is essential and gives you insight into what it will be like to work with them. The design process can take months depending on the complexity of the house extension, so it’s best to work with someone who is proactive and reliable.

Brentwood architect offering custom design and planning services for home extensions, ensuring the project meets your needs and exceeds expectations.

Brentwood architects: What sets the best apart?

The best architects in Brentwood have the experience and attention to detail needed for house extensions, loft conversions, and garage conversions. Choosing the right architect ensures a smooth process from design to approval, and our services are available across Essex, including Brentwood, to meet your home extension needs.

Clarity from the start

If everything isn’t clear from the start, it could be a red flag. Architects know Brentwood homeowners are often new to home extensions, so why wouldn’t they make the process simple from the beginning? Whether it’s a home extension or loft conversion in Essex, the process is straightforward when there’s a clear system in place.

Architectural design costs

It’s difficult to define a good price, as it depends on the quality of work and resources provided by architects in Brentwood. Architectural design services in Brentwood typically range from £1,500 to £2,200 for a reputable company offering a good service. Costs can also vary depending on the type of project, whether it’s kitchen extensions, utility rooms, extra bedrooms, or large-scale house extensions. More complex designs, such as open-plan living spaces or extensions requiring structural changes, may fall at the higher end of the pricing scale.

Local knowledge

All councils differ, and some even interpret Permitted Development (PD) rules differently. Working with architects in Brentwood who have extensive experience with Brentwood Council’s planning and building control department is crucial if you’re looking to get approval for your home extension or loft conversion. Choosing an architect with a proven track record of approved planning applications in Brentwood will help streamline the process and improve your chances of success.

Different extension types

There are many ways to add extra space, and architects in Brentwood with experience across all house extension types can provide valuable advice on the best approach for your needs. They should be able to suggest alternative options while considering costs and feasibility. For example, a double-storey rear extension might not be possible, but a combination of a garage conversion and loft conversion could achieve the same additional space in a more practical and cost-effective way.

Brentwood architect offering full-service design and planning for home extensions, ensuring seamless execution from design to build.

How to find the best architects in Brentwood for home extensions

Finding the best architects in Brentwood for home extensions means looking in the right places. Recommendations from friends or family can help, but they don’t always give the full picture. Google reviews are one of the few places where you’ll find genuine, unfiltered feedback. Unlike testimonials on a company’s website, Google reviews can’t be edited or removed, making them a reliable source. Local magazines and directories may list architects, but these are often paid advertisements rather than real endorsements. A good architect should have a strong portfolio, positive client feedback, and a proven track record with home extensions in Brentwood.

A good architect should have a strong reputation backed by real customer feedback. Checking their Google reviews can give you a clear idea of what to expect if you choose to go ahead with their services. You can see Google reviews here to get an insight into what previous clients have experienced.

Brentwood architect specialising in loft conversions, offering expert design and planning services to enhance your home and maximise space in your extension project.

What makes a great home extension architect in Brentwood?

A great home extension architect in Brentwood knows how to enhance the functionality, design, and feel of a home while ensuring the extension adds long-term value. The best architects go beyond simply creating extra space they design extensions that improve everyday living, maximise natural light, and blend seamlessly with the existing property.

Home transformation


If you’re planning a single storey rear extension, loft conversion, or garage conversion, an experienced architect will consider things you never even knew made up a good design. Every home has the potential for transformation it just takes the right architect to bring it to life in a way that works practically, aesthetically, and within budget

Brentwood architect specialising in loft conversions, designing a functional and stylish kids' bedroom as part of your home extension project.

How architects in Brentwood help avoid common home extension mistakes

A home extension planning company offers much more than a basic architect. While an architect can design great plans, there’s much more to the process, including structural engineering, building regulation drawings, and handling the build contracts. Working with multiple companies increases the risk of miscommunication. Choosing a company that manages everything from start to finish provides the best chance of a smooth, efficient project.

 

Essential services to look for with a home extension planning company:

 

Final thoughts

When choosing an architectural design company in Essex, it’s important to consider the full range of services offered. A well-rounded company ensures that all aspects of your project are handled by experienced professionals, saving you time, money, and a lot of stress. You might be planning a single storey extension, a double storey extension, or a garage conversion, and working with Brentwood architects who provide comprehensive services can make all the difference in delivering a successful project.

 

We really do care

If the architect cares about the builder the homeowner ends up using, it only spells a recipe for success. Imagine a company that genuinely cares about the final result and truly values others, not just focused on the money. Wouldn’t that be a sight? Chances are, a company like that would have a lot of 5-star reviews to their name.

Don't take our word for it

See what our customers are saying on Google Reviews

Jack Dev
08:58 04 Mar 25
I was looking for an architect in Billericay and came across Kirkwood. They designed my single-story rear extension, which includes an open-plan kitchen and an internal knock-through. The architects and structural engineers were fantastic and really understood what I wanted to achieve. Kirkwood also put me in touch with local builders who were reasonably priced and completed the extension without any fuss. If you’re looking for a reliable Essex architect serving Billericay, I’d definitely recommend Kirkwood.
Maria Krystal Humphrey
11:20 03 Feb 25
We had a single-story house extension built in Thurrock, Essex, by the builders that Kirkwood passed us onto. Kirkwood's architects did a really good job, so we were pleased we went to them rather than a design-and-build company that just subcontracts the architectural work out.
Grace Biddiss
09:27 02 Feb 25
We appointed Kirkwood as our architects for a double story and wrap around kitchen extension in Billericay, Essex. They provided us with architectural plans, structural engineering and building regulation drawings. The team was professional from start to finish and the builder they recommended has done a faultless job. You definitely get what you pay for, highly recommend. Thanks!
Freyja
19:14 01 Feb 25
We’ve worked with residential architects before, but Jamie and his team, especially Nathan, were fantastic. Kirkwood designed plans for our double-story side extension, loft conversion, and single-story rear kitchen extension, and we knew we had to choose the right company since it involved our entire home.Based in Brentwood, Essex, we were also introduced to builders and tradespeople through Kirkwood, and they were excellent—professional, respectful, and a pleasure to work with. If we ever take on another project, we wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.
Harry
14:41 01 Feb 25
I was skeptical about Kirkwood’s 5 star reviews but now I’m one of them. Incredible service, especially for the money we paid. They wasn’t the most expensive but for the standard of service we received, they defiantly should have been. They done the architectural plans for our home extension in Chelmsford. The architect was amazing at creating our open plan kitchen and dining area. The structural engineer was quick, polite and drunk tea like it was going out of fashion. Strongly recommend if your considering a architect for your home extension in a Chelmsford.
Riley Russell
13:58 31 Jan 25
Kirkwood done a fantastic job on our architectural plans for our new single story kitchen extension in Brentwood. They gained us approval from the council and also provided the structural engineering for the project. We used their recommended builder who so far, we cannot fault one bit. Thanks again and highly recommend.
iansalsbury
10:54 24 Jan 25
The Kirkwood team were a pleasure to work with and have in our house. What can be a stressful time was made a lot easier by a team who build with quality, communicate clearly, and address and action any questions you raise....however small or large.We now have an amazing extension, and would be happy to use the team again.
Natalie Moore
12:29 23 Jan 25
Jamie and team are always helpful and very knowledgeable. Work on our kitchen extension carried out professionally and to high standard from design to build completion. A fantastic job, and very pleased. Many thanks
Kelly Pye
08:27 22 Jan 25
Jamie has provided lots of advice on house improvements including different options for extending as well as the possibility of a loft conversion. He responds quickly to queries and is full of knowledge! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him
Boris
19:35 12 Nov 23
Kirkwood Design and Build Builders, Wickford did a fantastic job on our extension in Billericay. They helped with planning permission, design, and build. Professional company through and through. Given that we haven't done such a large project before, we were a bit nervous and had a lot of questions. Jamie and his team from Kirkwood Design and Build Builders was good putting us at ease and now that we are fully complete with all our work, we further appreciate how professional this company is. Would highly recommend.
Holly Luckin
09:29 11 Nov 23
Nothing was to much hassle and Jamie is lovely!
john rocke
11:33 09 Nov 23
Great company and very professional. Nothing was a problem, very helpful and will definitely use them again. Have already given their details to a friend of mine.
Dave Lynch
19:32 08 Nov 23
Work carried out to a very high standard, very pleased with the results.
Sharon Gormer
13:06 07 Nov 23
Very professional company, helpful and friendly staff.
Aaron Tutton
11:15 07 Nov 23
Great builders, very professional and perfectionists! Thank you for such an amazing job
Olly Tait
13:28 21 Apr 23
Jamie and his team were so profesional from start to finish and made the job a joy to watch our dream come together.Very knowledgeable and contactable throughout the process.Couldn't ask for a better outcome and value for money.Will definitely be recommending and 100% will use again!5 star!!!
Sandie
20:03 20 Jan 23
I highly recommend the Kirkwood team! Exceptional workmanship, clear communication, Jamie & his team have provided the utmost as a polite & professional team! Very satisfied customer, looking forward to planning our loft conversion this year with you guys! Many thanks!
js_loader

Get an instant design & build quote

Where would you like to extend?

Detached

Semi Detached

Terrace

Bungalow

A friendly Kirkwood team member ready to assist with your home extension plans and provide expert advice on your project.

Would some free home extension advice help?

Considering expanding your home in Brentwood? Contact Kirkwood today to schedule a free Video consultation with one of our planning experts. We’ll guide you through every stage, from design concepts to planning permission and build costs. Getting in touch now could be the perfect first step for your home. We can also connect you with trusted local Brentwood builders, ensuring your renovation, house extension, or loft conversion is completed to the highest standards.
Scroll to Top