Home Refurbishment in Richmond & South West London | Planning, Design, Costs & What to Expect

What can a refurbishment include?

Reconfiguring internal rooms Removing or altering internal walls Creating better connections between the kitchen, dining and garden areas Renovating kitchens and bathrooms Replacing outdated plumbing and electrical systems Improving insulation and energy performance Replacing windows and doors Installing new heating and ventilation systems Introducing bespoke storage and joinery Improving natural light Restoring period features Redecorating and replacing finishes throughout the property Converting or improving loft spaces Altering circulation and stair arrangements Combining refurbishment with an extension or other additional floor area

Refurbishment does not necessarily mean extending

The important distinction is that refurbishment does not necessarily mean extending the property. In many cases, substantial improvements can be achieved by making better use of the floor area that already exists.

For some properties, however, refurbishment and extension work are best considered together. A rear extension, side extension or loft conversion may provide additional space while the rest of the property is being upgraded.

Refurbishment Strategy

Why refurbish a property in Richmond?

Richmond and the surrounding areas have a particularly strong mix of established housing and desirable locations.

Many homeowners have already invested in the location itself: proximity to Richmond Park, the River Thames, Kew Gardens, Bushy Park, local schools, transport links, shops and established neighbourhoods can all be important reasons for remaining in the area.

The property, however, may no longer suit the way it is being used.

A Victorian or Edwardian house may have attractive proportions and original features but a small kitchen, limited storage and a fragmented ground-floor layout. A later property may offer generous floor area but require improvements to insulation, services, bathrooms or internal circulation.

A refurbishment provides an opportunity to address these issues as part of one coordinated design strategy.

Common reasons for refurbishing

The existing layout no longer suits the household The kitchen is too small or poorly connected to other rooms There is insufficient storage The property feels dark Bathrooms and kitchens are outdated Heating and electrical systems need upgrading Energy efficiency needs improvement Original features need restoration The property needs to accommodate working from home Several separate improvement projects need to be coordinated The owners want to remain in the same location rather than move

The starting point should therefore not be “Which rooms should we renovate?” but rather:

“What could this property become?”

Improve the layout

Older properties were often divided into smaller rooms and designed around historical patterns of use.

Carefully considered alterations can improve circulation and establish stronger relationships between spaces.

This might mean opening up part of a ground floor, repositioning a kitchen, improving the entrance sequence or creating a more useful connection between the house and garden.

Improve natural light

Natural light is one of the most important design considerations in any refurbishment.

Opportunities may include:

Enlarging or repositioning openings where appropriate
Introducing rooflights
Using glazed doors to connect with a garden
Removing unnecessary internal barriers
Borrowing light between adjoining spaces
Using carefully positioned internal glazing

The objective is not simply to add more glass. Glazing, privacy, solar gain, insulation and the character of the existing building all need to be considered together.

Create better storage

Storage is often one of the least successful aspects of older houses.

Built-in joinery can make use of awkward corners, under-stair spaces, alcoves, landings and other areas that would otherwise be underused.

Improve energy performance

A refurbishment can also provide an opportunity to address insulation, windows, heating, ventilation and other aspects of building performance.

For older properties, the correct approach needs to consider the construction of the existing building rather than applying a standard solution to every property.

Make the property adaptable

A successful refurbishment should consider how the property may be used in the future.

Flexible rooms, better storage, accessible layouts and adaptable spaces can make a home easier to use as household requirements change.

Architectural periods and property types

Georgian houses Victorian terraces Edwardian properties Arts and Crafts houses Interwar homes Mid-century properties Later detached and semi-detached houses Contemporary residences

Many properties retain features such as bay windows, fireplaces, cornices, timber floors, panelled doors, high ceilings and original joinery.

A refurbishment does not necessarily need to choose between preserving these features and introducing contemporary design.

In many cases, the strongest approach is to identify which elements contribute most to the character of the property and retain or restore them, while introducing new interventions that are clearly considered and appropriate to the building.

This is particularly important where a property is listed, locally listed or located within a conservation area.

Refurbishing a Victorian or Edwardian house

Victorian and Edwardian properties are common across parts of Richmond, Kew, East Sheen, Barnes, Mortlake, Teddington and Twickenham.

Typical challenges

Small or separated kitchens Long corridors Cellular ground-floor layouts Limited rear access Poor insulation Older windows Dated plumbing and electrics Inadequate storage Later alterations that do not work well with the original building

A refurbishment can address these issues while retaining the proportions and features that give the property its character.

For example, a kitchen may be relocated or reorganised, a rear connection improved, redundant partitions removed and bespoke storage introduced without removing the architectural qualities that make the original house distinctive.

Refurbishing a listed or heritage property

Extra care is required when working with a listed property.

Richmond upon Thames contains numerous listed and historically significant buildings. The council states that listed buildings generally require Listed Building Consent for alterations or extensions, including internal and external works. Carrying out works that require consent without obtaining it can be a criminal offence.

This means that the design process needs to begin with an understanding of the property's significance.

What should be established before proposing changes?

Which elements are historically significant Which alterations have already taken place Whether previous works have appropriate consent Which materials and details should be retained How new interventions can sit alongside the existing building Whether planning permission is also required Whether specialist heritage advice is appropriate

For listed properties, the design strategy should be developed with the relevant heritage constraints in mind from the beginning rather than treated as an issue after the design has been completed.

Planning & Heritage

Conservation Areas in Richmond upon Thames

Conservation areas are particularly important when planning refurbishment work in Richmond.

The London Borough of Richmond upon Thames currently identifies 85 conservation areas across the borough. These include areas covering parts of Richmond, Barnes, Kew, Petersham, Teddington, Twickenham, Hampton and other neighbourhoods.

Examples of conservation areas

Richmond Hill Richmond Green Richmond Riverside Petersham Kew Green Kew Gardens Barnes Green Castelnau St Margarets Teddington Park Road, Teddington Twickenham Green Twickenham Riverside Hampton Village Hampton Court Green

Article 4 Directions

Some properties are also affected by Article 4 Directions.

These can remove specific permitted development rights, meaning planning permission may be required for works that might otherwise fall within permitted development.

Richmond upon Thames notes that Article 4 Directions can apply to individual properties, groups of properties or wider areas, depending on the designation.

This is one reason why a property should be assessed individually before a refurbishment strategy is established.

The precise designation affecting a property should always be checked rather than assumed from the name of the neighbourhood.

Conservation area status can influence proposals affecting the external appearance of a property. The council also notes that some permitted development rights are restricted in conservation areas.

Planning Permission

Do you need planning permission for a home refurbishment in Richmond?

Not necessarily.

Simple internal refurbishment works may not require planning permission, while other alterations can.

Richmond upon Thames confirms that permitted development rights can cover certain house extensions and alterations, loft conversions, heat pumps and solar panels, subject to the relevant criteria.

These rights do not normally apply to flats, and they can be restricted by conservation area status or Article 4 Directions.

Article 4 Directions

These can remove specific permitted development rights, meaning planning permission may be required for works that might otherwise fall within permitted development.

When planning permission may be relevant

Extensions

Significant external alterations

Changes to the roof

New or enlarged openings

Alterations affected by an Article 4 Direction

Work in a conservation area where permitted development rights are restricted

Changes involving a listed property

Certain changes of use

The answer depends on the property and the exact proposal.

For this reason, it is better to establish the planning position before finalising the design or committing to construction costs.

Planning permission

Planning is principally concerned with development, appearance, use, heritage, neighbouring impact and the wider planning context.

Building Regulations

Building Regulations address technical matters such as structural safety, fire safety, energy performance, ventilation, drainage and other construction requirements.

A project can therefore require Building Regulations approval even when planning permission is not required.

What this means for a Richmond refurbishment

Richmond upon Thames states that Building Regulations approval is required for a range of works including extensions, loft conversions, structural alterations, structural openings, certain window and door replacements, controlled services and other building work.

Consider both from the beginning Understanding the planning and Building Regulations requirements early can help reduce uncertainty and avoid costly changes during construction.

Property size Existing condition Structural alterations Number of rooms being refurbished Kitchen and bathroom specification Electrical and plumbing upgrades Windows and doors Insulation and energy improvements Bespoke joinery Flooring and finishes Site access Contractor availability Planning and heritage constraints Design and professional fees VAT Contingency

Current 2026 London cost guides give very different ranges depending on specification and what is included, illustrating why a per-square-metre figure should be treated as an early budgeting tool rather than a quotation.

Light refurbishment £800–£1,200 per m²

Mid-range work £1,200–£2,000 per m²

High specification / complex £2,000–£3,500+ per m²

These figures vary significantly by scope and source and should not be treated as Richmond-specific fixed prices.

For a Richmond property, the more useful approach is to establish the scope of work first, then develop a realistic budget around that scope.

Discuss your refurbishment project

Architectural design fees Planning application fees where applicable Building Regulations work Structural engineering Surveys Specialist consultants Kitchen and bathroom supply Bespoke joinery Appliances Flooring and finishes Contractor preliminaries Waste removal and skips Temporary accommodation where required Landscaping Contingency VAT

Allow for contingency

A contingency is particularly important when refurbishing an older property because existing construction may reveal unforeseen conditions once floors, walls or ceilings are opened up.

Exactly what is being changed Which walls are being removed or retained Where services are moving What level of finish is required Which windows and doors are being replaced Where bespoke joinery is required What structural work is involved What planning or Building Regulations approvals are required

This gives contractors a much clearer basis for pricing.

It also reduces the likelihood of major design decisions being made during construction, when changes are usually more expensive.

The more decisions that can be resolved during the design and technical stages, the greater the opportunity to identify costs early and reduce expensive changes during construction.

Explore Design Ideas for your refurbishment project

Modern kitchen with large skylights, black cabinets, a wooden island with a white marble countertop, and a view of a lush green backyard.

The relationship with dining areas Garden access Natural light Storage Food preparation Appliance locations Circulation Views Ventilation Heating Lighting Family use Future flexibility

Designing a kitchen within a period property

For a period Richmond property, the kitchen can also become an opportunity to create a contemporary intervention within an older building.

The appropriate solution will depend on the property. A modern kitchen does not necessarily need to imitate the original style, but it should respond intelligently to the proportions, materials and character of the existing building.

A modern bedroom with a sloped ceiling, skylights, two windows, a bed with pillows and a blanket, a nightstand with a lamp, a chair, and an open bathroom with a bathtub and shower.

New sanitaryware New showers or baths Improved ventilation New lighting Underfloor heating New plumbing Improved storage New wall and floor finishes Bespoke vanity units

Consider the plumbing strategy as a whole

Where several bathrooms are being upgraded at once, it can be beneficial to consider the plumbing strategy for the property as a whole rather than designing every room independently.

Bright living room with large glass doors and skylights, opening to a lush garden with trees and potted plants, light wood flooring, and a sofa with a small wooden coffee table.

Replanning internal rooms Opening up selected partitions Introducing internal glazing Enlarging suitable rear openings Adding rooflights Using glazed doors Improving connections between rooms

A combination of modest interventions

The strongest solution is often a combination of several relatively modest interventions rather than one large alteration.

Bright home office with a wooden desk, a laptop, a desk lamp, and a bookshelf, overlooking a lush garden with colorful flowers through large windows and an open door.

A dedicated home office A study A guest room with workspace A flexible family room A hobby or creative space Built-in workspace within another room

Design for changing needs

The important consideration is not simply where to put a desk, but how the room will function throughout the day and whether it can adapt to another purpose in the future.

Roof insulation Wall insulation Floor insulation Improved glazing Draught reduction Heating controls Heat pumps Solar panels Ventilation Hot water systems

However, energy improvements need to be appropriate to the existing construction.

For listed properties in particular, Richmond upon Thames advises that many internal and external alterations associated with energy improvements may require Listed Building Consent.

Refurbishment may be sufficient when

The existing footprint can provide the accommodation you need, but the layout, circulation or relationship between spaces could be substantially improved.

Replanning internal rooms Opening up selected partitions Introducing internal glazing Enlarging suitable rear openings Adding rooflights Using glazed doors Improving connections between rooms

An extension may be worth considering when

The existing property cannot provide the required accommodation even after the available space has been carefully reconfigured.

In these circumstances, additional floor area may provide a more appropriate solution — subject to the property's site, planning position and architectural character.

The strongest solution can be a combination of both.

For example, a Richmond house might receive a modest rear extension while the rest of the ground floor is completely reorganised and the upper floors are upgraded.

01

Starting Point

Initial consultation

Understanding your requirements, priorities, budget and the potential of the existing property.

02

Investigation

Measured survey & existing-condition assessment

Establishing the property's dimensions, condition, construction and constraints so that the design can respond to the existing building.

03

Design

Design development

Developing the layout, spatial strategy, natural light, circulation, materials and other design considerations around the property's requirements.

04

Planning

Planning advice or application

Establishing the relevant planning position and preparing an application where permission is required for the proposed works.

05

Technical Design

Building Regulations & structural engineering

Developing the technical design with the necessary Building Regulations information and structural engineering input.

06

Development

Detailed design

Resolving construction details, materials, specifications and other information required to define the proposed work.

07

Tendering

Contractor tendering & appointment

Issuing the relevant project information, obtaining contractor prices, comparing proposals and appointing the construction team.

08

On Site

Construction

The approved design is constructed, including structural alterations, services, finishes, joinery and other specified works.

09

Completion

Inspections & completion

Final inspections, outstanding works, certification and handover bring the refurbishment project towards completion.

Planning can add additional time

Richmond upon Thames currently gives a target of 8 weeks for householder and small-scale planning applications. This is the target determination period once an application is being processed and should not be interpreted as the total time required to prepare a project, submit an application or obtain all necessary approvals.

More complex projects can take considerably longer

For larger or more complex refurbishments, particularly those involving extensions, structural alterations, heritage considerations or extensive technical work, the overall programme can be considerably longer.

01 Establish what you want to achieve

Start with the problems rather than the finishes.

What does not work about the current property?
What spaces are missing?
What do you want to improve?
How might your requirements change?
Is additional floor area actually necessary?

02 Survey the existing property

Accurate information about the existing building provides the foundation for good design.

Depending on the project, this may include:

Measured surveys
Photographic surveys
Structural investigations
Drainage information
Heritage research
Tree surveys
Ecological surveys
Asbestos surveys
Energy assessments

Not every project requires every survey.

03 Develop the design

The design stage should explore the property's potential before decisions become fixed.

This is where layout, light, storage, materials, energy performance and planning considerations can be considered together.

04 Establish the planning strategy

Once the initial design direction has been established, the planning position should be assessed. Determine whether planning permission, permitted development, Listed Building Consent or other approvals are relevant.

This is particularly important in Richmond upon Thames, where conservation areas, listed buildings and Article 4 Directions can affect what changes are possible.

Richmond's pre-application service provides homeowners, property owners and developers with an opportunity to obtain advice before submitting a planning application. The council also offers specific pre-application routes for householder and listed-building projects.

05 Develop technical information

Once the design and planning strategy are established, the project can progress into greater technical detail.

Detailed drawings and specifications can provide the information required for Building Regulations, contractor pricing and construction.

Depending on the project, this may include:

Detailed floor plans and sections
Construction details
Structural information
Specifications
Lighting and electrical layouts
Plumbing and heating information
Joinery details
Material selections
Coordination with specialist consultants

The level of information required will depend on the scale and complexity of the refurbishment.

06 Obtain contractor prices

Contractors can then price a clearly defined scope of work rather than making assumptions about what the project includes.

A more detailed set of information generally makes it easier to compare quotations and identify where differences in price arise.

It also reduces the likelihood of significant design decisions being made after construction has already started.

07 Construction

During construction, design information, technical coordination and communication remain important.

Existing properties can reveal unexpected conditions once walls, floors or ceilings are opened up. A responsive design team can help assess these issues and coordinate appropriate solutions while keeping the wider design intent in view.

08 Completion

The final stage includes inspections, certification, snagging and handing over relevant project information.

Depending on the scope of the work, this may include Building Regulations documentation, warranties, certificates and information relating to installed systems and materials.

Choosing Your Design Team

Choosing an Architecture Studio for Your Refurbishment Project

The right design team can have a significant influence on the outcome of a refurbishment.

A good architecture studio should be able to understand both the opportunities and constraints of an existing property rather than approaching refurbishment as though it were a new-build project.

When considering who to appoint, useful questions include:

Have they worked on period properties?

Have they worked in conservation areas?

Can they manage planning applications?

Can they develop detailed construction information?

Do they coordinate with structural engineers and other consultants?

Can they help establish a realistic project budget?

Can they assist with contractor selection?

How involved will they remain during construction?

Look beyond the planning stage

For a substantial refurbishment, it is particularly useful to understand how the design team works beyond the planning stage.

Planning Technical design Construction

Planning drawings may establish what can be built, but detailed design and technical coordination help establish how it will actually be built.

Good design information should therefore continue to support the project through technical development and construction.

Planning a refurbishment? Talk to Artist of Architecture about your property, priorities and the right approach for your project.

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Refurbishment Across Richmond upon Thames

Richmond upon Thames is a large and varied borough, and the character of its residential properties changes considerably from one neighbourhood to another.

Although the borough is covered by the same local planning authority, each area has its own architectural character, heritage considerations and mix of property types.

Understanding the immediate context is therefore an important part of developing an appropriate refurbishment strategy.

Richmond

Properties around Richmond Green, Richmond Hill and the riverside include a wide range of period and historic homes.

Some areas have particularly sensitive townscape and heritage considerations, including conservation areas around Richmond Green, Richmond Hill and Richmond Riverside.

For homeowners, this can make the relationship between refurbishment, heritage and planning particularly important.

Kew

Kew contains a varied collection of period houses and established residential streets.

The area includes conservation areas such as Kew Green and Kew Gardens, alongside other locally distinctive residential areas.

Refurbishment projects in Kew can involve anything from upgrading the interiors and services of an older property to carefully reconfiguring a family house while retaining important architectural features.

Barnes

Barnes combines period houses, riverside properties and village-scale streets.

Barnes Green and Castelnau are among the area's conservation areas, creating additional considerations for certain external alterations and changes to properties.

Many Barnes properties also have valuable relationships with gardens and surrounding open space, making natural light and indoor-outdoor connections important aspects of refurbishment design.

Petersham

Petersham has a particularly sensitive historic and landscape context.

The Petersham Conservation Area contributes strongly to the area's character, and properties need to be considered within their wider setting as well as individually.

For refurbishment projects here, preserving important characteristics of the existing property while introducing appropriate contemporary improvements can be particularly important.

Teddington

Teddington contains a broad range of residential properties, including period houses and family homes around the High Street, Bushy Park and the River Thames.

Conservation areas include Park Road, Teddington Lock and The Grove, among others.

Projects in Teddington can range from internal refurbishment and reconfiguration through to more substantial projects involving extensions or loft conversions.

Twickenham

Twickenham has a diverse collection of houses and a strong riverside and historic character.

Its conservation areas include Twickenham Green and Twickenham Riverside, alongside several other locally designated areas.

For homeowners considering refurbishment, the existing character of the property and its relationship with neighbouring buildings can be important considerations when developing proposals.

Hampton

Hampton and Hampton Hill contain a mixture of period and later properties, including houses close to Hampton Village, Hampton Court and the surrounding residential streets.

Conservation areas include Hampton Village and Hampton Court Green.

Refurbishment projects here can involve modernising older properties, improving internal layouts, upgrading energy performance or combining refurbishment with carefully considered additional space.

Areas we also work across South West London

Putney Wandsworth Wimbledon Kingston upon Thames Surbiton Molesey

These locations share many of the same questions around refurbishment, extensions, planning, period properties and improving existing homes, but each has its own planning authority, local policies and architectural character.

A planning strategy that works for a property in Richmond should therefore not automatically be applied to a property in Wandsworth, Wimbledon or Kingston.

The same principle applies to conservation areas and heritage properties. The planning position should always be established for the specific property and proposed works rather than relying solely on the general characteristics of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Starting with finishes instead of the overall design

Choosing kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and decorative finishes before resolving the overall layout can lead to a fragmented project.

The first priority should be understanding how the property can work as a whole.

Underestimating the existing building

Older properties can conceal structural, damp, drainage, electrical or other problems.

A suitable survey and early assessment can help identify potential issues before major decisions are made.

Treating planning as an afterthought

Planning and heritage considerations should influence the design from the beginning.

This is particularly relevant in Richmond, where conservation areas, listed buildings and Article 4 Directions can affect what is possible.

Not allowing for contingency

A refurbishment budget should include an appropriate contingency for unforeseen conditions, particularly when working with older buildings.

Making too many decisions during construction

Changes made after work has started can be expensive and can affect the construction programme.

The more decisions that can be resolved during design and technical development, the clearer the project is likely to be for both homeowner and contractor.

Focusing only on appearance

A successful refurbishment should improve how a property performs, not simply how it looks.

Layout, natural light, storage, energy performance, ventilation, acoustics and long-term adaptability can all be just as important as finishes.

Trying to maximise every square metre

More floor area does not automatically produce a better home.

Good proportions, daylight, circulation and storage can be more valuable than simply increasing the amount of space.

A clear overall strategy

The project should begin with an understanding of what needs to improve and why.

Rather than designing individual rooms in isolation, the layout, circulation, natural light, storage, connections between spaces and relationship with the garden should be considered together.

A design that responds to the existing property

Every building has its own proportions, structure, materials and architectural character.

A successful refurbishment works with these qualities rather than applying the same solution to every property. This is particularly important when working with Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian or other period homes.

Good use of natural light

Natural light can have a significant effect on how spaces feel and function.

Changes to openings, internal partitions, room proportions, rooflights, glazing and connections between rooms can all influence how daylight moves through a property.

Better use of space

The objective is not necessarily to create the maximum amount of floor area.

Often, a more successful result comes from improving proportions, circulation, storage and connections between rooms rather than simply adding more space.

Appropriate technical solutions

A refurbishment also needs to perform as a building.

Structure, insulation, ventilation, heating, electrics, plumbing, acoustics and materials all need to be considered alongside the design.

Planning and heritage considered early

Planning requirements should form part of the design process from the beginning.

This is particularly important for properties in conservation areas or buildings with listed status, where the existing character and significance may influence what changes are appropriate.

A realistic budget

Good design should respond to the available budget.

Understanding the likely cost of different options early in the process allows decisions to be made before significant commitments are made and helps avoid expensive changes later.

Coordination from design through construction

A refurbishment does not end when planning permission is obtained.

The design needs to develop into sufficient technical information for Building Regulations, contractor pricing and construction. Good coordination between the design team, consultants and contractor can help reduce uncertainty as the project progresses.

Ultimately, a successful refurbishment brings these considerations together. The result should feel coherent rather than like a collection of individually renovated rooms.

Our Approach

Why Work with Artist of Architecture?

At Artist of Architecture, we approach refurbishment as an opportunity to understand what an existing property can become.

Our architecture studio works with homeowners and property developers to develop considered responses to existing buildings, from early feasibility and concept design through planning, technical development and construction.

For Richmond and South West London properties, this can involve balancing several considerations at once:

The existing architectural character

The needs of the client

Planning policy

Conservation requirements

Natural light

Spatial quality

Energy performance

Construction considerations

Budget

Long-term adaptability

The aim is not simply to make a property look newer.

It is to create a coherent design that responds to the building, the site and the people who will use it.

Thinking about refurbishing your property? Talk to Artist of Architecture about your project and what your existing property could become.

How much does a home refurbishment cost in Richmond?

There is no single cost for a home refurbishment in Richmond. The budget depends on the size and condition of the property, the scope of work, structural complexity, specification, services, finishes and level of bespoke work required.

A lighter refurbishment may involve mainly decorative improvements and selected kitchen or bathroom upgrades, while a comprehensive refurbishment may involve structural alterations, new services, reconfiguration, insulation, windows, joinery and high-quality finishes.

Published London refurbishment cost guides can provide broad early benchmarks, but they should not be treated as a quotation for an individual Richmond property. A more reliable budget can be established once the scope of work and design have been developed.

Is it cheaper to refurbish a house or move home in Richmond?

There is no universal answer, as the financial implications depend on the property, proposed works and alternative properties available.

Moving can involve costs such as Stamp Duty Land Tax, legal fees, estate agency fees, removals and potentially refurbishment work on the new property. Refurbishment can allow homeowners to remain in a location they value while adapting their existing property to their requirements.

For some properties, however, moving may be more appropriate. A feasibility assessment can help compare the potential of the existing property with the cost and practical implications of alternative options.

Do I need planning permission for a home refurbishment in Richmond?

Not necessarily.

Many internal refurbishment works do not require planning permission. However, permission may be required for extensions, certain external alterations and other forms of development.

Additional considerations can apply where a property is listed, located within a conservation area or affected by an Article 4 Direction.

The planning position should be assessed for the specific property and proposed works before the design is finalised.

Do I need Building Regulations approval for a refurbishment?

Many substantial refurbishment projects involve work that falls within Building Regulations.

This can include structural alterations, removing or creating structural openings, extensions, loft conversions, certain changes to windows and doors, electrical and plumbing work, heating systems, ventilation and other controlled building work.

Planning permission and Building Regulations are separate matters, so a project that does not require planning permission may still require Building Regulations approval.

Can I refurbish a house in a Richmond conservation area?

Yes. Conservation area status does not prevent refurbishment.

However, proposals affecting the character or appearance of a property can be subject to additional planning considerations. Richmond upon Thames has numerous conservation areas covering a variety of historic and established neighbourhoods.

The relevant conservation area guidance should be considered alongside the individual property's characteristics and the proposed works.

Can I refurbish a listed property in Richmond?

Yes, but listed properties require additional care.

Depending on the proposed works, Listed Building Consent may be required for alterations to both the interior and exterior of a listed building.

The significance of the property should be understood before developing proposals, including which architectural features and materials are important to retain.

Can I change the layout of a Victorian or Edwardian house?

Often, yes.

Internal reconfiguration can be an effective way of improving an older property, particularly where rooms are poorly connected, circulation is inefficient or the kitchen and garden have a weak relationship.

However, removing walls or changing openings can involve structural work, and listed status, conservation considerations and Building Regulations may also need to be considered.

The appropriate approach depends on the individual property.

Can a home refurbishment improve the layout of my property?

Yes. Improving the layout is often one of the main reasons homeowners choose to refurbish.

Possible improvements include:

Creating better connections between rooms
Improving circulation
Reorganising kitchen and dining areas
Increasing natural light
Introducing flexible rooms
Creating better garden connections
Adding integrated storage
Making previously underused spaces more useful

The aim should be to improve how the entire property functions rather than simply making individual rooms look newer.

Can a refurbishment improve energy efficiency?

Yes. Refurbishment can provide an opportunity to improve the energy performance of an existing property.

Depending on the building, measures may include:

Improving insulation
Upgrading windows and glazing
Improving draught control
Upgrading heating systems and controls
Improving ventilation
Considering renewable energy technologies
Improving hot water systems

The appropriate approach depends on the construction and condition of the existing building. Period and listed properties can require particularly careful consideration when introducing energy-efficiency measures.

What is included in a home refurbishment?

The scope can vary considerably.

A refurbishment might include:

Internal reconfiguration
Kitchen refurbishment
Bathroom refurbishment
Structural alterations
Electrical upgrades
Plumbing and heating improvements
New flooring and finishes
Bespoke joinery and storage
Improved insulation
New windows and doors
Lighting improvements
Ventilation
Energy-efficiency measures
Restoration of period features

Refurbishment can also be combined with an extension, loft conversion or other additional works where the existing property requires more floor area.

Can a refurbishment include an extension?

Yes.

Refurbishment and extension work are often considered together, particularly when the existing layout needs significant reorganisation and the property also requires additional floor area.

For example, a rear extension could provide additional kitchen or dining space while a wider refurbishment reorganises the ground floor and upgrades the rest of the property.

Whether an extension is appropriate depends on the property, planning context, budget and the client's requirements.

How long does a home refurbishment take?

The timescale depends on the size and complexity of the project.

A smaller refurbishment may take a relatively short construction period, while a comprehensive whole-house refurbishment can take several months or longer.

The overall programme should also include:

Initial consultation
Surveys
Design development
Planning, where required
Building Regulations
Structural engineering
Technical design
Contractor selection
Procurement
Construction
Inspections and completion

The construction period is therefore only one part of the overall project timeline.

Which parts of a home are most valuable to refurbish?

There is no universal answer because priorities depend on the property and how it is currently used.

Kitchens and bathrooms are often important areas because they combine significant functional requirements with substantial investment.

However, other improvements can be equally valuable to a particular homeowner, including:

Improving the overall layout
Creating better natural light
Increasing storage
Improving the relationship with the garden
Creating a dedicated workspace
Upgrading energy performance
Improving circulation between floors

A good refurbishment strategy should consider the property as a whole rather than focusing only on individual rooms.

Can refurbishment increase the value of a Richmond property?

A well-designed refurbishment can improve a property's condition, functionality, presentation and appeal. In some circumstances, these improvements may also contribute to its market value or marketability.

However, the financial return will depend on the property, location, quality of the work, local market conditions and the amount invested.

Refurbishment should therefore be approached primarily around the property's potential and the client's requirements rather than assuming that every pound spent will be recovered through an increase in value.

Is refurbishment better than moving house?

It depends on the property and what you want to achieve.

Refurbishment can make sense when the location is right but the property itself no longer meets your requirements. It can allow you to improve the layout, introduce additional functionality and upgrade the building without leaving the area.

If the existing property cannot provide what you need, an extension or loft conversion may be another option. In some cases, moving may be more appropriate.

An early feasibility assessment can help establish which options are realistic before significant money is committed.

Why work with an architecture studio for a home refurbishment?

A refurbishment involves many interconnected decisions. An experienced architecture studio can consider the layout, natural light, structure, planning requirements, heritage, energy performance, materials, budget and long-term use as part of one design strategy.

A design team can also help identify opportunities that may not be immediately obvious from looking at the existing rooms individually.

For a complex project, this can include developing the design, coordinating consultants, preparing planning information, developing technical drawings and helping the project progress towards construction.

The value is not simply in producing drawings, but in developing a coherent approach to the property from the earliest stages.

Do I need an architectural designer for a home refurbishment in Richmond?

Not every refurbishment requires professional design input, but an architectural designer can help identify opportunities to improve the layout, functionality and overall quality of your home.

For more complex projects involving structural alterations, internal reconfiguration, extensions or period properties, a considered design approach can help establish what is feasible and identify relevant planning, heritage and Building Regulations requirements.

Artist of Architecture provides residential design services in Richmond upon Thames and South West London, helping homeowners develop proposals tailored to their property, requirements and budget.

Every property is different

Planning, heritage, structural and Building Regulations requirements can vary considerably between properties. An early assessment can help establish what is possible before significant design or construction costs are committed.

Your Next Step

Start Planning Your Richmond Home Refurbishment

A successful refurbishment begins well before construction starts.

The most valuable decisions are often made during the early stages, when there is still an opportunity to assess the property, explore different options, understand planning constraints, establish a realistic budget and develop a coherent design.

Whether you are considering a complete refurbishment of a Victorian house in Richmond, a period property in Kew or Barnes, a family home in Teddington or Twickenham, or a larger project elsewhere across South West London, the first step is to understand what is realistically possible.

01

Understand the property

Assess the existing building, its opportunities, constraints and potential.

02

Explore the possibilities

Develop a considered design strategy around your priorities, budget and planning context.

03

Plan with confidence

Establish the appropriate route forward before committing significant construction costs.

Considering a refurbishment in Richmond or South West London? Talk to Artist of Architecture about your property and project.

Discuss Your Project

When Planning a Home Refurbishment

Book a free consultation to discuss your project.

Book a Free Consultation

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About this page

Prepared by Vladis, Director at Artist of Architecture. Responsible for residential design, planning strategy and project delivery across extension, loft conversion and new-build schemes. Over 10 years’ experience preparing planning applications, permitted development submissions and building regulations packages with local planning authorities.

Last updated: 2026

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, planning, architectural, or professional advice. Planning requirements, costs, and timescales can vary depending on the property, project, and site-specific circumstances. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, no guarantee is given that the information is complete, current, or applicable to your situation. For advice specific to your property and project, please contact Artist of Architecture directly.

Home Refurbishment in Richmond upon Thames & South West London: Planning, Design, Costs & What to Expect 2026

Refurbishment does not necessarily mean extending

Improve the layout

Improve natural light

Create better storage

Improve energy performance

Make the property adaptable

Article 4 Directions

Planning permission

Building Regulations

What this means for a Richmond refurbishment

Allow for contingency

Explore Design Ideas for your refurbishment project

Designing a kitchen within a period property

Consider the plumbing strategy as a whole

A combination of modest interventions

Design for changing needs

Refurbishment may be sufficient when

An extension may be worth considering when

Initial consultation

Measured survey & existing-condition assessment

Design development

Planning advice or application

Building Regulations & structural engineering

Detailed design

Contractor tendering & appointment

Construction

Inspections & completion

Look beyond the planning stage

Planning a project of your own?

Start Planning Your Richmond Home Refurbishment

When Planning a Home Refurbishment