Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Hackney
Hardcastle Architects is a dedicated architectural practice based in Hackney, East London, founded by Matthew Hardcastle in 2008. With over two decades of professional experience, including a decade leading this practice, we specialise in delivering tailored architectural solutions across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors. Our portfolio spans domestic extensions, loft conversions, new-build projects, and refurbishments of listed buildings, alongside educational and commercial developments. As a small practice, we prioritise direct client engagement, ensuring meticulous attention to detail from initial concept through to construction completion. Our services include fixed-fee design and approvals packages for residential projects, comprehensive planning applications, and 3D design visualisation.We maintain strong industry affiliations through membership of RIBA and registration with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Our approach combines technical expertise with a commitment to affordability, ensuring projects meet both client aspirations and regulatory requirements. We actively collaborate with trusted consultants and contractors to support seamless project delivery. Our recent work includes a new-build private house in Lower Clapton, secondary school refurbishments, and discreet extensions within conservation areas. By maintaining manageable workloads, we guarantee hands-on involvement in every project, fostering successful outcomes that balance creativity with practicality.
Services
Domestic Extensions
Listed Buildings
New-Build Projects
Planning Applications
3D Design Visualisation
Site Inspections
Commercial Refurbishment
Educational Developments
Residential Conversions
Conservation Areas
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer over 10 years of architectural expertise in residential and commercial projects
- Our small practice ensures personalised attention to every project
- Fixed-fee design and approvals service for domestic extensions
- Comprehensive support from feasibility to project completion
- Proven track record with listed buildings and conservation areas
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Architects Registration Board (ARB)
Services
Domestic Extensions
We design and manage residential extensions including kitchens, loft conversions, and rear additions. Our fixed-fee service covers measured surveys, design options, and full planning approvals. We ensure compliance with local regulations while prioritising client needs and budgetary constraints.
Listed Buildings
Specialist work on listed buildings and conservation areas forms a core part of our practice. We navigate complex planning requirements, prepare detailed heritage assessments, and implement sensitive refurbishments that preserve historical integrity while meeting modern standards.
Planning Applications
We handle full planning submissions including pre-application discussions, design and access statements, and lawfulness certificates. Our expertise ensures smooth approval processes for residential, commercial, and change-of-use projects across London.
3D Design Visualisation
Our three-dimensional design tools create accurate visualisations for client presentations and planning submissions. This technology enhances decision-making by demonstrating spatial relationships and material choices before construction begins.
Site Inspections
We provide regular site inspections, contract administration, and certification services during building work. Our involvement ensures adherence to design specifications, regulatory compliance, and timely resolution of on-site challenges.
People
Matthew Hardcastle
Principal Architect
Matthew Hardcastle established the practice in 2008 after working at prominent London firms. A RIBA member since 1998, he oversees all projects directly, combining technical expertise with a client-focused approach to deliver successful architectural solutions.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential projects including extensions and listed buildings, commercial refurbishments, educational developments, and new-build properties. Our services cover planning applications, 3D design, and construction oversight.
Do you work on listed buildings or conservation areas?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings and projects within conservation areas, ensuring sensitive design solutions that meet heritage requirements while fulfilling modern needs.
What areas do you cover?
We primarily work across London, including Hackney, Clapton, and North London, with recent projects spanning from Lower Clapton private houses to North London school refurbishments.
How do you manage the planning process?
We handle full planning applications including pre-application discussions, design statements, and lawfulness certificates. Our expertise ensures efficient approvals for residential and commercial projects.
Can you assist with contractor selection?
Yes, we can recommend trusted consultants, building contractors, and tradespeople we regularly collaborate with to ensure quality project delivery.
What is your design approach?
Our approach combines creative design with practical implementation. We maintain small practice sizes to ensure direct involvement in every project, prioritising client needs and budgetary requirements.
