Chartered Surrey Architects
If you're looking for an architect in Surrey, you're likely looking for more space, a better layout, or a property that finally works the way you need it to.
You're not alone, and you're not expected to know where to start.
Planning rules, structural details, builder conversations and design decisions can quickly become overwhelming. But they don't have to be.
I'm a RIBA Chartered Architect helping residential and commercial clients turn their ideas into well-designed, practical spaces, with clear guidance and communication at every stage.
Your initial conversation is complimentary and without obligation. Share a few details and Jonathan will respond within one working day to arrange a call or, where appropriate, a site visit.
Specialist Architecture for Residential, Commercial, Listed & Period Properties
Trusted for thoughtful design and practical architectural guidance
Clients value Jonathan's ability to listen carefully, navigate planning and construction constraints, and turn their ideas into practical, well-considered designs.
We worked with Jonathan on plans for a loft conversion and a ground-floor kitchen extension. Jonathan was excellent, researching both thoroughly. From the initial conversation, we felt our ideas were listened to and he provided great insight into what we could and couldn't do within our council's restrictions. The process was quick and we had drawings in no time. We were also very thankful for his builder recommendations.
Jonathan was our architect and project manager for our home and we were extremely delighted with the plans, which suited our needs perfectly. From the outset, he showed a remarkable ability to blend creative vision with practical execution. His designs met our aesthetic expectations while also adhering to the relevant building requirements. When challenges arose, Jonathan navigated them confidently and demonstrated real adaptability.
Jonathan has been extremely helpful on a project involving a Grade II* listed building, where we needed to upgrade facilities and introduce changes with real sensitivity. He approached the challenges creatively, producing designs that genuinely maximise the use of the space. I very much appreciate both his work and the contribution of his team.
I understand how daunting a major building project feels
Reshaping your property is a significant undertaking, and it is natural to feel the weight of it. You know the space could work harder - more light, more room, a layout that suits how you live or work - but the path there is rarely obvious. The questions tend to mount before a single drawing is made:
- What the planners will and won't permit on a property like yours
- How far you can reconfigure or extend before the structure becomes the deciding factor
- What the structural work - steelwork and the like - will add to the cost
- Where the budget is best spent, and what it will genuinely cost to build well
- Whether the architect you appoint will still be involved once the drawings are approved
Good architectural design begins by addressing those questions directly - so the decisions that follow are made with confidence, not guesswork.
The First-Sketch-to-Finished-Build Approach
When you work with the right architect, you gain confidence in your project, the process becomes easier to navigate, and the finished result feels like what you were hoping for - not a compromise you had to settle for.
That is how I can support you. With a background in construction and design, I bring the experience, judgement and practical understanding needed to shape a project that can gain planning approval, be built properly, and deliver the space you set out to create.
As a RIBA Chartered Architect, I guide you through all seven stages, from the first sketch to completion on site, so you always understand what is happening, why it matters and what needs to happen next.
My Chartered Architectural Services
As a chartered architect working across Surrey and South West London, I take on residential, commercial and listed building projects - from a single-storey extension to a complete new build home. Here is where I can help.
Residential Architecture
The heart of what I do: house extensions, loft conversions and basements, full home renovations and refurbishments, and contemporary new build and replacement homes. From a practical rear extension to a luxury home designed around how you live, I shape spaces that work harder and feel right.
- House extensions
- Loft conversions
- Basement conversions
- Home renovations & refurbishments
- New build & replacement homes
- Luxury homes
Commercial Architecture
Considered, practical design for commercial premises and mixed-use schemes, shaped around how the space needs to work, what it will cost to build, and what the local authority will support.
- Commercial premises
- Mixed-use schemes
- Feasibility studies
Listed & Period Buildings
Sensitive work to listed buildings and properties within conservation areas, blending period character with the comfort and function of a modern home, and prepared with the supporting detail planners expect.
- Listed building work
- Conservation area projects
- Period property restoration
Through every stage of the work
- Feasibility studies
- Planning applications
- Building regulations & construction drawings
- Tendering & builder selection
- On-site support to completion
Not sure which of these best describes your project? Tell me what you would like to achieve, and I will advise on the most sensible way to get there.
Experience that connects design, planning and construction
Composition Design is my RIBA chartered architecture practice. Behind every project sits thirty years of multidisciplinary experience - residential, commercial and leisure, including time spent as a director of a design-and-build practice. It means I understand not only how a building should look, but how it is actually put together.
That matters more than it might sound. Many architects are content to secure planning permission and step away, leaving you to navigate the build alone. I prefer to stay involved through every stage, on site as well as at the drawing board, because the way a design is built is what ultimately determines whether it succeeds.
The result is design you can trust to be buildable: ambitious where it should be, grounded in construction reality, and considered against budget from the very beginning.
Some Of Our Recently Completed Projects
How it works
I study your property
It begins with your enquiry through the contact form. Once I am notified, I review the property and its surroundings - the type of house, its context, and what the planners are likely to allow - so by the time we speak, I already understand what we are working with.
We discuss your plans
A conversation to understand what you would like to achieve and how I can help, usually followed by a visit to see the property in person and talk through your options and the process ahead.
You receive a tailored proposal
Following the visit I prepare a fee proposal suited to your project - whether a fixed fee or a percentage - so the scope and the cost are clear before you commit to anything.
Trusted by homeowners, developers and businesses
We worked with Jonathan on plans for a loft conversion and also a ground-floor kitchen extension. Jonathan was excellent, researching thoroughly for both. From the initial chat we found our ideas were listened to, and Jonathan provided great insight into what we could and couldn't do in terms of our council's restrictions. The process was quick - we had drawings in no time. We were also thankful for the builder recommendations.
We worked with Jonathan on a couple of projects: an initial ground-floor extension, followed by an extension to our first floor. On both occasions, Jonathan provided us with creative options to maximise the use of the space, and the end result has transformed our home. Jonathan was hands-on throughout, from the initial design concepts to managing the planning process, coordinating with the builders and providing practical advice when we needed it. I would highly recommend Jonathan and his team at Composition Design.
Jonathan was our architect and project manager for our home, and we were extremely delighted with the new plans as they suited our needs. From the outset, he showed a remarkable ability to blend creative vision with practical execution - his designs met our aesthetic expectations while adhering to all relevant building regulations. When we encountered challenges, Jonathan navigated them with real adaptability, and we were very pleased with how he collaborated with us and the builders to keep everyone aligned. We had a large extension and a loft conversion at the same time, and the completed home exceeded our expectations. If we were ever to build again, I would not hesitate to work with Jonathan.
Chartered Architecture Across Surrey And South West London
Composition Design provides RIBA Chartered architecture to homeowners, developers and businesses across Surrey and South West London. Explore architectural services in your area below.
Surrey Areas We Serve
- Esher
- Oxshott
- Claygate
- Thames Ditton
- Molesey
- Cobham
- Weybridge
- Walton-on-Thames
- Leatherhead
- Epsom
- Guildford
- Woking
- Chobham
- Windlesham
- Virginia Water
South West London Areas We Serve
- Surbiton
- Kingston Upon Thames
- Berrylands
- New Malden
- Tolworth
- Worcester Park
- Wimbledon
- Merton
- Richmond
- Wandsworth
- Clapham
Let's discuss what your property could become
If you are considering an extension, a new build or a thoughtful refurbishment, send an enquiry through the form. I will review your property and come back to you with how I can help and the sensible next steps - the easiest way to get your project moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What architectural projects does Composition Design specialise in?
Composition Design specialises in residential architecture, commercial architecture and projects involving listed buildings and period properties across Surrey and South West London.
Residential projects include house extensions, loft and basement conversions, full property renovations and refurbishments, new-build homes and replacement homes.
Composition Design also works on commercial and mixed-use projects, feasibility studies, listed buildings and properties within conservation areas. Architectural services can extend from early feasibility and planning through to Building Regulations, technical drawings, tendering, builder selection and support during construction.
What is a RIBA Chartered Architect?
A RIBA Chartered Architect is a registered architect who is also a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects.
In the UK, the title "architect" is legally protected and can only be used by individuals registered with the Architects Registration Board. RIBA Chartered membership is an additional professional status through the Royal Institute of British Architects.
Jonathan at Composition Design is a RIBA Chartered Architect and is registered with the Architects Registration Board. Composition Design is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice providing architectural services across Surrey and South West London.
What is the difference between an architect and an architectural designer?
In the UK, "architect" is a legally protected professional title, while "architectural designer" is not.
Only someone registered with the Architects Registration Board can legally use the title architect in business or practice. Terms such as architectural designer and architectural consultant are not protected in the same way.
A registered architect has met the requirements for entry onto the Architects Register and must follow the professional standards that apply to registered architects. An architectural designer may have relevant architectural experience or qualifications, but use of that title alone does not mean the person is an ARB-registered architect.
Composition Design's architectural work is led by Jonathan, a RIBA Chartered and ARB-registered architect.
How much will an architect cost?
An architect's fees depend on the size, complexity and scope of the project and the stages of architectural service required.
Architects may charge a fixed fee, a percentage of the construction cost or, for some services, an hourly rate depending on the work involved.
Composition Design provides a tailored fee proposal after discussing the project and, where appropriate, visiting the property. The proposal sets out the architectural services required and the associated fees before the client decides whether to proceed.
Can you get free advice from an architect?
Composition Design offers an initial conversation so potential clients can discuss their property, what they want to achieve and the likely next steps before committing to an architectural service.
Jonathan reviews the initial project information and discusses the proposed work before arranging a property visit where appropriate. Following the visit, Composition Design can prepare a tailored fee proposal setting out the recommended architectural services.
The initial conversation gives both parties an opportunity to understand the project and establish whether Composition Design is the right fit.
Do I need planning permission for a house extension?
Planning permission is not required for every house extension.
Some house extensions can be carried out under permitted development rights, while others require a householder planning application. The appropriate route depends on factors including the property, the proposed extension, previous alterations and relevant planning restrictions.
Composition Design can assess the property and proposed works, advise on the appropriate planning route and prepare and submit a planning application where permission is required.
What are the RIBA Plan of Work stages?
The RIBA Plan of Work organises an architectural project into eight stages, numbered Stage 0 to Stage 7.
The stages are Strategic Definition, Preparation and Briefing, Concept Design, Spatial Coordination, Technical Design, Manufacturing and Construction, Handover and Use.
Composition Design can support clients from the early briefing and design stages through planning, technical design and construction to completion on site.
Does an architect stay involved after planning permission?
An architect can remain involved after planning permission to develop the approved design into the technical information needed for construction.
Composition Design can continue beyond planning permission to prepare technical and construction drawings, coordinate specialist consultants, assist with Building Regulations, support tendering and builder selection, and provide architectural support during construction.
The level of involvement depends on the architectural service agreed for the project.
Can an architect help with Building Regulations?
An architect can prepare and coordinate architectural drawings and information required as part of the Building Regulations process.
This stage develops the approved design into more detailed technical information and can address matters including construction, insulation, fire safety, ventilation and coordination with structural and other specialist consultants.
Composition Design can prepare Building Regulations and construction information and coordinate the relevant consultants required for the project.
Can an architect help me choose a builder?
An architect can help a client select a builder by preparing detailed tender information and helping compare quotations from contractors pricing the same scope of work.
Composition Design can assist with tendering and builder selection and can continue working with the appointed contractor during construction.
Architectural involvement during construction can include answering design queries, reviewing progress and helping maintain the intent of the approved architectural design.
How long does an architectural project take?
The timescale for an architectural project depends on the size and complexity of the project, the planning process, technical design and the construction programme.
Design and planning for a house extension or refurbishment can take several months before construction begins, while new-build homes and more complex projects typically require longer.
Composition Design establishes an anticipated programme during the early stages so clients understand the likely sequence and timescale for design, planning, technical work and construction.
Which areas does Composition Design Architects cover?
Composition Design is based in Surbiton and provides architectural services across Surrey and South West London.
Areas served include Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, Esher, Oxshott, Claygate, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton, New Malden, Hinchley Wood, Cobham, Weybridge, Walton-on-Thames, Leatherhead, Epsom, Guildford, Woking, Richmond, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Putney and surrounding areas.
Composition Design works with homeowners, developers and businesses on residential and commercial architectural projects throughout Surrey and South West London.