Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Croydon
Established in 2008, Shorplans Developments is a multidisciplinary design and build practice with over 20 years of combined experience in planning, design, and construction. We provide informed, honest, and realistic advice alongside comprehensive architectural services, operating as a RIBA and ARB Chartered Architects Practice. Our expertise spans residential and commercial sectors, covering planning applications, building control, party wall surveys, and structural engineering. With a 97% planning approval success rate across 32 London boroughs, we combine local knowledge with technical proficiency to deliver tailored solutions.Our team of RIBA-certified architects and structural engineers ensures projects meet regulatory standards while prioritising client satisfaction. We maintain transparency in operations, offering fixed-fee quotes and free initial consultations to discuss project feasibility, planning, and costs. Our commitment to innovation and compliance with building regulations has resulted in over 1,000 completed projects, reflecting our dedication to quality and client-centric service.
Services
Architectural Design
Structural Engineering
Party Wall Surveys
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Planning Applications
Building Control
Loft Conversions
Extensions
Interior Design
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of combined experience in architectural design and planning
- 97% planning approval success rate across 32 London boroughs
- In-house RIBA-certified architects and structural engineers
- Transparent fixed-fee pricing with free initial consultations
- Specialist knowledge of local planning regulations and permitted developments
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- ARB
What people say
Excellent planning knowledge
Super flexible with timelines
Highly recommended for extensions
Expert structural advice
Successful first-time approvals
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service covers residential and commercial projects, from concept to completion. We specialise in new builds, extensions, and renovations, ensuring compliance with planning regulations while prioritising aesthetic appeal and functionality. Our RIBA-certified architects work closely with clients to create tailored solutions that maximise space and meet individual needs across London and Surrey.
Structural Engineering
We provide comprehensive structural engineering services for residential and commercial projects. This includes load-bearing calculations, beam specifications, foundation design, and building control submissions. Our engineers ensure structural integrity while supporting planning applications and construction projects, offering both pre-construction assessments and retrospective reports for existing developments.
Party Wall Surveys
Our party wall service ensures compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. We prepare and serve notices, draft legally binding awards, conduct condition surveys, and mediate neighbour disputes. This service protects both building owners and adjoining properties during extensions, basement works, or structural alterations near shared boundaries.
Planning Applications
We manage full planning applications and permitted development assessments. Our team prepares detailed submissions, navigates local authority requirements, and achieves high approval rates. Services include feasibility studies, design development, and compliance checks against current building regulations and local council policies.
Loft Conversions
We specialise in loft conversion design and planning, transforming unused attic space into functional living areas. Our service includes structural calculations, dormer design, building control submissions, and compliance with permitted development rights to ensure safe, legal, and value-adding home extensions.
People
Carl Shorter
Founder - Architect
Founder of Shorplans with over 20 years' experience in architectural design. BA (Hons) in Architecture from London South Bank University, skilled in AutoCAD and construction management. Demonstrated expertise in navigating London's planning policies and delivering client-focused design solutions.
Maria Silva
Senior Architect
Experienced architect specialising in urban design with a MArch degree. Qualified Technician of Management of Construction Works, focusing on residential and commercial projects across London. Ensures high standards in design execution and regulatory compliance for complex urban developments.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer in London?
We provide residential and commercial design, extensions, loft conversions, interior design, and planning applications across all London boroughs.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we offer free no-obligation consultations to discuss project scope, feasibility, and costs with tailored design proposals.
How does the party wall process work?
We prepare notices, handle neighbour agreements, draft legally binding awards, and ensure compliance with the Party Wall Act 1996.
Are your architects RIBA-certified?
Yes, we are a RIBA and ARB Chartered Architects Practice with strict adherence to professional standards and local planning requirements.
What structural engineering services do you provide?
We offer beam calculations, wall removal assessments, foundation design, structural drawings, and inspections for residential and commercial projects.
Can you assist with permitted developments?
Yes, we advise on permitted development rights including extensions, loft conversions, and outbuildings while ensuring regulatory compliance.
