Architect in Hackney – Sustainable Retrofits and Design-Led Renovations
Residential Architecture in Hackney
Studio CMA is a residential architecture practice working across Hackney, with a focus on retrofits, extensions and energy upgrades to period homes. Based in Dalston, on the border of Hackney and Islington, we’ve lived and worked locally for over 15 years. From Stoke Newington to London Fields, our projects often involve reworking solid-wall houses — improving layouts, increasing daylight and tackling cold, damp or underused spaces. Whether you're planning a full retrofit, a modest extension or a long-term upgrade, we help you make clear, well-judged improvements that support comfort, character and long-term performance.
Working with Hackney’s Housing Stock
Hackney’s homes are full of potential — but often underperforming. From Victorian terraces in Stoke Newington, to Edwardian villas in Clapton, to 20th-century infill plots around London Fields, many properties need rethinking to suit modern family life.
We specialise in transforming these homes into calm, efficient and resilient spaces. We understand Hackney’s planning context, conservation areas and typical construction issues, so we can help you anticipate what's likely to get approved — and what might hold you back.
Our Architectural Process
Every project begins with a Pre-Design Appraisal. This is a structured, low-risk first step to explore your brief, budget, constraints and opportunities. Before you commit to full design fees, we help you understand where to focus, what is realistic, and how to avoid early missteps.
From there, we lead you through a clear, phased design process that balances vision with delivery. Our goal is to create spaces that feel just right — for the people who live in them, and for the years to come.
Explore our approach
Retrofit, Passivhaus and Low-Energy Design
As certified Passivhaus designers, we bring deep technical experience to retrofitting Hackney’s older homes. Our projects often reduce energy use by 3 to 10 times, using breathable materials, thoughtful detailing and modern ventilation to improve comfort year-round.
We work to recognised performance standards such as EnerPHit and AECB standards, tailored to each building's potential. If your home is cold, draughty, hard to heat or prone to damp, we can help you make it healthy, efficient and future-ready.
Read about our sustainable ethos or learn more about the AECB or Passivhaus EnerPHit standard.
Recent Projects in Hackney
Over the past 15 years, we’ve worked on a wide range of homes across Hackney — from Victorian terraces in Stoke Newington to basement flats near De Beauvoir. Many of these homes needed better light, flow and comfort, but came with planning or conservation constraints that shaped what was possible.
In Lower Clapton, a loft conversion and whole-house retrofit rebalanced a growing family home, combining natural materials, improved insulation and reorganised spaces. In London Fields, a compact two-storey extension transformed a dark Victorian terrace into a warm, open living space, reconnecting indoors and out.
Other Hackney projects include:
Wraparound extensions near Victoria Park, improving kitchen layouts and garden connection
Two-storey extensions in London Fields to create separate dwellings, requiring careful planning and soundproofing
Loft conversions with integrated storage and better daylighting
Basement reworks in Stoke Newington to improve circulation and space use
Full retrofits to reduce heat loss and create calmer, better-performing homes
Together, these projects reflect our experience working with solid-wall homes and older housing stock — making precise, thoughtful improvements that support long-term comfort and sustainability.
Planning and Conservation in Hackney
Much of Hackney sits within conservation areas, particularly around Stoke Newington, De Beauvoir, Victoria Park Village and Clapton Square. These designations affect what you can build, insulate or alter externally.
We are experienced in navigating these constraints. Our early-stage research identifies risks and opportunities up front, so your retrofit or extension can move forward with fewer surprises.
Hackney Council: conservation guidance
FAQs – Hackney Homeowners Often Ask
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Yes, but you may need planning consent for external changes. We often combine internal insulation at the front with breathable external wall insulation at the rear, achieving comfort and performance without compromising heritage.
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Most of our clients invest between £150k–£500k, depending on scope and performance goals. Our Pre-Design Appraisal includes early cost forecasting to help you prioritise.
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We use breathable, natural insulation systems that protect building fabric, avoid trapped moisture, and reduce heat loss without damaging walls or details.
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You benefit from someone familiar with Hackney’s planning process, contractors and housing stock. We know what works — and what holds projects up — so we can design accordingly.
Planning a Retrofit or Renovation in Hackney?
Start with a Discovery Call
We offer a free 15–20 minute call to learn more about your project, answer questions, and confirm whether our Architect’s Home Visit & Appraisal (AHVA) is the right next step. It is also where we outline a tailored fee and timing for the AHVA, based on your home and goals.
Or learn more about our full range of services before you get in touch.
