Question 1

Do you work with independent and boutique property developers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with owner-operator developers, family firms, and investor-led partnerships, on schemes ranging from single-unit refurbishments through to multi-unit conversions worth several million pounds.

Question 2

How do you design schemes to maximise ROI?

Accepted Answer

Value engineering starts at feasibility — we compare £/m² build cost against £/m² value uplift, optimise density and layout, and match finish specifications to expected yield or resale price. Because the same team designs, plans and builds, decisions made at feasibility carry through to construction without translation loss.

Question 3

What does cost-effective space look like in a London scheme?

Accepted Answer

Prioritising the interventions that add the most £/m² (rear extensions, lofts, GIA reconfiguration that unlocks an extra unit) over the most expensive ones. No over-spec, no under-spec, and no value engineering on site after the budget is already committed.

Question 4

Can you rescue a scheme that's been refused by the planning committee or council?

Accepted Answer

Yes — around 20% of our work is resubmissions. We review the refusal notice, separate policy grounds from design grounds (whether the refusal was made by committee or delegated officer), and redesign the application for approval.

Question 5

How early should we involve you in a site?

Accepted Answer

Ideally pre-acquisition. We feasibility-check sites under offer so you can bid with confidence in what's actually deliverable on the plot.

Question 6

Do you take on HMO and commercial-to-residential schemes?

Accepted Answer

Both are core to our work. We deliver HMO refurbishments and conversions, plus commercial-to-residential change of use schemes with full Building Control coordination.

Question 7

What's a realistic project value you'll take on?

Accepted Answer

From single-unit refurbishments through to multi-unit conversions and mixed-use schemes worth several million pounds. We don't have a strict minimum — what matters is the fit between the scheme and the team.

Question 8

Do you offer fixed-price contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, on a defined scope, with transparent variation control. Any changes during the project are discussed with cost and time implications agreed before work proceeds.

Question 9

How long does planning permission take?

Accepted Answer

Most London applications take 8–12 weeks from submission. Larger schemes may take longer depending on consultation requirements. We handle all paperwork and correspondence with the council.

Question 10

What types of homeowner projects do you take on?

Accepted Answer

Kitchen extensions, loft conversions, first-floor additions, basement extensions, and full refurbishments — plus garden rooms and annexes where space allows.

Question 11

Do I need planning permission for my project?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your property and location. Some works fall under permitted development rights, others need full planning approval. We'll tell you which applies during our first conversation.

Question 12

Will I have to deal with multiple contractors or just you?

Accepted Answer

Just us. Archicon manages design, planning, and construction in-house, so you have one point of contact and clear accountability throughout the project.

Question 13

How much will my project cost?

Accepted Answer

Every project is different. We give honest, realistic estimates at the first meeting and a fixed quote before any work begins.

Question 14

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We work across all London boroughs, with particular focus on Greenwich, Bexley, Croydon, Lewisham, Southwark, and Hammersmith & Fulham. We also serve Enfield, Brent, Bromley, Lambeth, Merton and surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions