High-End Architects in Hampstead
Hampstead offers a completely unique architectural experience in London, with an eclectic mix of buildings from different periods, much of which is of very high quality. When working in such a significant context, the choice of architect for your project is critical. They will need judgment and sensitivity to carefully balance any new addition, be it renovation, extension or new-build house, with the existing surroundings.
Call us: 0203 327 4780
Email us: [email protected]
Who we are
Dominic McKenzie Architects (DMA) offer award-winning architectural services across Hampstead and North London. Our creative team specialise in high-end contemporary architecture in historic settings, such as listed buildings or in Conservation Areas, making it a perfect fit for working in Hampstead. For each project we collaborate closely with our clients to offer a truly bespoke service. Our ambition would be to contribute to the “excellence and mix of buildings” (as described in Hampstead’s Conservation Area statement) that already exist within the area.
DMA was founded in 2011 by architect Dominic McKenzie. Before setting up his own practice, Dominic gained many years of award-winning architecture experience: including the RIBA Stirling Prize winning Accordia housing project in Cambridge.
Since then the awards and recognition have continued:
- In 2021 DMA won the ‘Best Residential’ project in the Homes and Gardens Awards for their project ‘Hampstead House’. Wallpaper* described the project: ‘At the same time an effortless flow and carefully chosen materials throughout both existing and new parts bring everything together in a coherent whole, underlining a clear sense of subtle luxury that makes this Hampstead home stand out among its peers.’
- In 2019 DMA were recipients of the NLA ‘Don’t Move Improve’ award for ‘Best Historic Intervention’ for their project Tower House.
- In 2016 DMA was selected for Wallpaper* magazine’s Architect’s Directory – ‘ a selection of ‘the world’s best young architectural talent’ and was included in the Architecture Foundation’s ‘New Architects 3’ book which showcases ‘the best new practices in the UK since 2005’.
- In 2014 ’Eidolon House’ won the Sunday Times British Homes Award for ‘Best One-Off House below 2500sqft’ and was included as a feature project in the Channel 4 TV series ‘Inside Out Homes’.
We know Hampstead
Hampstead has a rich history of significant architectural projects. Below are some of our favourites:
Fenton House
A dignified detached house at the top of the hill built by a merchant in the 17th Century, eventually handed to the National Trust in the 1950s. A fine example of Georgian architecture, the house is well worth the admission fee alone, however, perhaps the most interesting feature is the garden which is one of the nicest in London, and surprisingly large given its central Hampstead location.
Isokon Building
This apartment block – a key example of early Bauhaus design in the UK– has a long and rich history of creative people living in it since it opened in the 1930s. Perhaps its most famous resident was crime author Agatha Christie, and the building quickly became a well-known hub of intellectualism in North London.
Hopkins House
A house the architect Michael Hopkins built for himself in the late 1970s. This ultramodern glass and steel design really stands out architecturally among the much older houses of Hampstead, whilst in fact being incredibly modest and hidden in the streetscape.
More of our favourite projects are listed here in our Architects Guide to Hampstead.
What we do
An architect will see opportunities for your property and know how to go about realising them – through planning, listed building applications and then construction. Hopefully, they will create something way beyond what you had expected.
Not all architects are the same. You need an architect with a track record of working creatively within the constraints of the local area. We know Islington’s houses, streets, Conservation Areas and planning department very well.
DMA’s designs are contemporary and concept-led, but are always sensitive to the architectural context in which they are constructed. Our work reflects modern ways of living, while still being respectful of the historic building or setting. Each project we work on is the result of close collaboration between us and our clients
Our Process
Our process is smooth for the client while offering a world-class creative solution. If you get in touch with us we will find a time to come and see your property, and take the time to understand exactly what your vision for it is.
From the outset of the project, we work closely with our clients at every stage to agree on the fine details. When the project starts, we design, plan, visualise, draw-up and discuss the scheme with you. Once we are happy with the design approach, we present the proposals to the local authority in the form of drawings and written descriptions.
Following planning permission, or listed building consent, we develop the detailed Construction Information for a project, tender it to builders and execute the project all the way through to completion, working closely with you and other consultants, contractors throughout the process.
During construction, we follow the progress of the work, responding to queries from the site and adjusting the designs as necessary to meet site conditions. Finally, we visit the site to compile a list of snags and ensure the final build meets our design standards.
Get in touch
Dominic McKenzie Architects (DMA) is an award-winning architecture firm in North London. We work closely with discerning clients to create spectacular and sophisticated contemporary homes. To find out more about our architectural services, call us today.