Architects in
St Albans &
Hertfordshire
ABHR_A is a RIBA Chartered architecture practice with a studio on Verulam Road in St Albans. We specialise in listed buildings, homes in conservation areas, extensions and the sensitive retrofit of period properties, and we work across St Albans and the wider county.
Our conservation work is led by director Alex Bilton, who is listed on the RIBA Conservation Register, and spans Grade II and Grade II* listed homes and public buildings. If your project involves a historic building or a sensitive setting, we'd be glad to talk it through.
What we do in St Albans & Hertfordshire
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Listed buildings: repair, alteration and extension of listed homes, including listed building consent applications.
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Conservation areas: extensions and alterations that respect the character of St Albans' historic streets.
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Extensions and remodelling: rear, side and loft extensions to Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses.
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Retrofit: upgrading period homes to be warmer and more efficient without losing their character.
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New homes and housing: one-off houses and small housing schemes, including social housing.
Why work with us
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Conservation expertise: led by an architect on the RIBA Conservation Register.
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RIBA Chartered Practice: held to the RIBA's professional standards.
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Local studio: based at Foster Studios, 27-31 Verulam Road, a short walk from the city centre.
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Detailed design: carefully planned, intricately detailed buildings that respect what already exists.
Featured project: Holyrood Crescent, St Albans
Frequently asked questions
Do I need listed building consent? If your home is listed, you need listed building consent for any work that affects its character, inside or out, including internal alterations. It's separate from planning permission, and carrying out work without it is a criminal offence. We prepare and submit applications as part of our service.
My house is in a conservation area. What does that change? Permitted development rights are more limited in conservation areas, so some extensions and alterations that would normally be allowed need planning permission. Some areas also have Article 4 directions that remove further rights. We check what applies to your property before design work starts.
How long does listed building consent take? The council's target for deciding an application is eight weeks from validation, though complex cases can take longer. Early discussion with the conservation officer often helps.
How much does an architect cost? Fees depend on the size and complexity of the project and which stages you need us for, from planning drawings through to managing the build. We offer a complimentary 30 minute Video consultation to discuss your project. We offer both fixed and percentage based fees depending on how firm the scope and scale of your project is.
Do you only work in St Albans? No. We work across Hertfordshire, as well as in London and Oxfordshire
Talk to us
Planning work to a listed building or a home in a conservation area in St Albans? Get in touch and we'll talk it through.
Foster Studios, 27-31 Verulam Road, St Albans AL3 4DG · T: 020 8629 3924 · info@abhra.co.uk