If you've never worked with an architect before, that first meeting can feel like a bit of an unknown. Do you need to prepare something formal? Will you be judged on how clear your ideas are? Here's exactly what to expect when you get in touch with MO Architects. However suits you best We keep this flexible. Some clients prefer us to visit their home in person, so we can properly understand the space, the light, and how the house currently works. Others prefer to start with a

Quick answer Listed Building Consent (LBC) is a separate legal permission from planning permission, required for most alterations — internal or external — to a building on the National Heritage List for England. Unlike planning permission, there's no application fee, but the statutory determination period is around 8 weeks, and carrying out unauthorised work to a listed building is a criminal offence. If you're unsure whether your project needs it, a pre-application enquiry w

From 31 October 2026, a new national law — the Town and Country Planning (Discharge of Local Planning Authority Functions) (England) Regulations 2026 — means most house extensions, renovations and small new build schemes must be decided by a council planning officer, not a committee. Larger or more contentious applications can still reach committee, but only if they pass a new "gateway test." It applies to every council in England, including across Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshi

If you've been putting off a self-build plot, a small infill scheme, or a modest extension because of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements, the rules changed in your favour last month - and it's worth knowing exactly what shifted before you plan your next step.

If you own a listed or historic property in Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire or Lincolnshire, this is the planning update you've been waiting for. We're thrilled to share in the second part of our series on the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published by MHCLG on 17 August 2026, that it has delivered a genuine shift in how energy efficiency works to heritage buildings are treated at the planning stage. For years, we've worked with clients across

West Bridgford is one of Nottingham's most established suburbs, its Victorian and Edwardian streetscapes sitting within conservation areas that make even modest changes subject to careful scrutiny. It's also home to Fazilat Masjid, where we've been working closely with the client and our heritage team on a programme of internal works to better serve the growing congregation — works that, because of the building's setting, required both listed building consent and planning per

At MO Architects, we're delighted to share the completed transformation of a family home on Selby Lane in Keyworth, Nottinghamshire. This full renovation project shows how thoughtful design can take a dated dormer bungalow and give it genuine kerb appeal, character and a real sense of arrival — all while keeping the practical, family-friendly footprint our clients needed. As a Nottingham-based architectural practice, we specialise in projects like this: complete remodelling a

On 17 August 2026, the Government published the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) - the first genuinely comprehensive rewrite of the document since it was introduced in 2012. For anyone planning a residential project, a rural conversion, or a self-build, this matters: the NPPF sits above every local plan in England and directly shapes how councils weigh up your application. We've been working through the new Framework, and we've pulled out the ten points most

We're delighted to share the completion of one of our most technically demanding projects to date — a replacement barn set within the countryside at Barrowby, near Grantham. What began as a complex site with significant constraints has been transformed into a striking, high-performance building that combines contemporary design with genuinely sustainable engineering. A Site With Character — and Challenges Every project has its story, and this one started with a site brief tha

If you are thinking about extending your home in Nottinghamshire, one of the first decisions you will face is whether to build a single storey or a two storey extension. It is a choice that will affect your budget, your planning prospects, your garden and the way your home works for years to come. At MO Architects, we help homeowners across Nottingham, West Bridgford, Southwell, Newark, Bingham and the wider East Midlands work through exactly this kind of decision. There is n

We are pleased to share that we have secured planning consent for a two storey extension and internal remodelling project in West Bridgford, Nottingham. The scheme was developed through careful work with the local planning authority to ensure the extension remained planning compliant, while also maximising the potential of the site for the client. Alongside the additional floor area, the project includes internal remodelling to improve the overall layout, functionality and da

We are pleased to be acting on a Class M permitted development scheme delivering 20 studio apartments in a highly sustainable location close to West Bridgford town centre. This type of project requires a clear understanding of prior approval, space standards, transport considerations and amenity provision , alongside careful design to create high-quality, efficient living spaces. A well-located scheme with strong potential — and a good example of how permitted development c

We have recently been appointed to support Fazilat Mosque with planning and listed building applications in West Bridgford, Nottingham. The project relates to a former United Reformed Church building and includes a series of internal and external works to support its ongoing use as a place of worship. Due to the nature of the building, the proposals require a considered approach to both planning permission and heritage constraints. Working Within a Historic Building The a

Development above an existing shop within a conservation area Context: A Sensitive City Centre Site Pelham Street sits within one of Nottingham’s most sensitive and commercially active historic areas, closely tied to the Lace Market. The street is characterised by traditional façades, active ground floor retail, and underutilised upper floors. This project focused on securing planning permission for residential accommodation above an existing shop, within a designated conser

If you are planning to build your own home in Nottinghamshire, understanding the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is essential. Many self-builders either overpay, miss exemptions, or fall foul of procedural rules—not because the system is complex in principle, but because it is rigid in process. This guide sets out how CIL works across Nottinghamshire, how self-build exemptions operate, and the exact steps required to remain compliant. What is CIL? The Community Infrastru

Finding the right architect in Nottingham to design your home can feel overwhelming. Your home is a major investment and a personal space that should reflect your lifestyle, taste, and needs. Choosing an architect who understands your vision and can bring it to life efficiently and beautifully is crucial. This guide will help you identify what to look for in a Nottingham architect , ensuring your home design journey is smooth and rewarding. Modern Nottingham home designed wi

Navigating the world of House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing can be complex, especially with evolving regulations. If you own or plan to develop an HMO property in Nottingham, understanding the licensing requirements for 2026 is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about HMO licensing in Nottingham, including legal obligations, application processes, and practical tips to ensure compliance. Along the way, I will also highlight how MO

If you are looking for an architect in Mapperley — whether for a residential extension, loft conversion, replacement dwelling or full house remodel — understanding local planning policy is essential. Mapperley (NG3), located just north-east of Nottingham city centre, sits within the administrative area of Gedling Borough Council . Planning decisions here are shaped by the Gedling Local Plan, national policy and detailed residential amenity and design standards. MO Architects

Building your own home is a dream many people share. The idea of designing a house that perfectly suits your lifestyle, your family, and your future is incredibly appealing. In Nottinghamshire, self build projects are becoming increasingly popular as people look for alternatives to buying existing homes or developer-built houses. However, building your own home can feel daunting. Planning permission, budgets, land searches, building regulations, contractors and timelines can

If you are looking for an architect in Bingham , whether for a residential extension, new build, replacement dwelling or alteration to a modern estate property, understanding local planning policy is essential. Bingham (NG13) sits within the administrative area of Rushcliffe Borough Council and has experienced significant housing growth over recent years. Planning decisions here are shaped by borough-wide policy, the Rushcliffe Local Plan, national guidance and design expecta