atelier eura
award winning architect in London
cristina lanz azcarate
toru saeki

A common misconception among homeowners is that living in a conservation area or a listed building puts an end to contemporary design. There is a fear that planning authorities only permit "imitation" architecture. In our practice, the opposite can be true. In fact, sometimes, the most respectful way to honour history is through a clear, honest dialogue between the old and the new. Moving Beyond Pastiche When refurbishing a property of historical significance, the goal is to

In the United Kingdom, many homeowners assume that obtaining planning permission is a simple "tick-box" exercise based solely on local council handbooks. However, the reality of the British planning system is far more nuanced: it is heavily shaped by case law. Because this landscape is constantly shifting, what was permissible last year may not be feasible today. One should not assume that previous successes guarantee future approvals, nor that a homeowner will be able to exe

Designing a kitchen requires a meticulous balance of aesthetics and ergonomics. Recently, our London studio has been busy developing several bespoke kitchens, focusing on the small but significant details that elevate daily use. In this post, we share several functional integrations that you may not have considered, but which can significantly improve the utility of your space. 1. Reclaiming Space Under the Hob If the oven is relocated to a tall unit, it removes the need to b

Crittall windows are an iconic feature of British architectural history, celebrated for their slender profiles and industrial elegance. However, many original installations are single-glazed, making them notoriously inefficient at retaining heat or excluding the cold. In one of our current London projects, our client attempted to replace her original windows with a more modern, thermally efficient system. The local planning authority refused the proposal, a decision that has

During a recent visit to our trusted tile specialist to collect samples for a new commission, we realised that many clients remain unaware of the aesthetic and functional benefits of contemporary timber-effect porcelain tiles. Choosing the correct flooring is a pivotal decision in any architectural project. While natural timber is often the initial preference, it may not always be the most practical solution when considering longevity, the demands of children and pets, or the

(Image taken from one of our projects though the extension is not ours... in fact, it seems to have been stopped) Can you build an extension to a first floor apartment in London? The answer is: occasionally, but the process is significantly more complex than that of a standard house. If you are considering building upward or outward, there are major structural, legal, and planning hurdles to navigate. Such works involve intensive structural modifications, rigorous fire and a

How a property manages drainage is one of the first technical considerations we address at the commencement of every project. While traditional London homes frequently feature external drainage stacks, modern architectural designs often favour concealing these systems within the building footprint to achieve a cleaner, more minimalist silhouette. When planning a refurbishment, identifying the exact location and condition of your drains is essential. This knowledge influences

Earlier this week, we dedicated a day to working through bespoke kitchen designs with a client at one of the showrooms with which we regularly collaborate. In our practice, we view the kitchen not merely as a set of appliances, but as a primary point of interaction between an individual and their home. Achieving a successful outcome requires a methodical approach that balances ergonomics, materiality, and technical detailing. Designing for Movement and Ergonomics A kitchen mu

In this post, we explore a force of nature that profoundly shapes our urban environment: the wind. It is essential to understand the technical considerations behind the buildings that surround us, particularly as London’s skyline continues to rise. Have you ever experienced a sudden, downward gust of wind while cycling that nearly forced you off your path? Or perhaps you have walked past a tall building where the wind became so turbulent that maintaining a straight line becam

For many homeowners in London, the journey toward a transformed living space begins with a sense of frustration. Perhaps the current layout does not support the flow of your daily life, or the aesthetic environment no longer feels like a reflection of your identity. While platforms such as Pinterest provide endless inspiration, a true architectural transformation requires a shift from passive observation to intentional action. The Barriers to Commencing a Refurbishment Over t

Have you ever observed how the colour of glass appears to change across different windows in a single building? This visual variation is rarely a random occurrence; rather, it is the result of specific architectural decisions, manufacturing processes, or environmental requirements. Why Does Glass Vary in Colour? There are several reasons why glass panes may exhibit different tints or reflections: Intentional Specification: Architects often specify tinted or coated glass to ma

Choosing the right light fittings is a common challenge for our clients. Many come to us with pieces of sentimental value that require a thoughtful home within a new interior. At our London studio, we view lighting not just as a fixture, but as an architectural material. Our approach is rooted in our heritage, blending an appreciation for shadow and atmosphere with bold, textural honesty. To achieve a balanced environment, we move beyond simple illumination and follow a metho

(Post by Director Cristina Lanz Azcarate) Example of a Higher risk building A few days ago, I wrote about a supplier who went out of...

A few days ago, Spain was left without power and the world watched as people reclaimed the public realm.  Entirely different sections of...

Why create a thriving garden that supports vital insects and restores the natural balance of your local ecosystem