Howie Architects

Business Details

9 Years

experience

RIBA Chartered Architects in Norwich

Howie Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Norwich, Norfolk, with over 30 years of experience in residential and domestic architectural design. Founded in 2017, our practice specialises in extensions, conversions, and bespoke projects, serving clients across Norfolk, Suffolk, and beyond. Our team, led by Alastair Howie, combines technical expertise with creative vision to deliver sensitive contemporary solutions tailored to individual needs. We utilise advanced 3D modelling and software tools to visualise designs, ensuring seamless integration of new and existing structures.

With a focus on period properties, bungalows, and modern homes, we navigate planning challenges and building regulations to transform spaces into functional, aesthetically pleasing environments. Our commitment to personal service, attention to detail, and collaborative approach has earned us a reputation for excellence, as evidenced by numerous client testimonials praising our responsiveness, innovation, and ability to achieve planning approvals in complex cases.

Services

Residential extensions Bungalow conversions Period property adaptations Loft conversions New-build homes Planning consultancy 3D visualisation Homebuyer assessments

Details

Year established: 2017

Highlights and features

We offer 30+ years of architectural expertise with RIBA Chartered status
Our 3D visualisation technology ensures clear design communication
Proven success in securing planning approvals for complex projects
Personalised service tailored to individual client needs
Specialists in period property transformations and bungalow adaptations

Associations and certifications

RIBA

What people say

Excellent creative solutions Delighted with the work Smooth planning process Innovative and beautiful design Amazing space transformation

Website

Update Listing

Services

Residential extensions

We design contemporary and traditional extensions that harmonise with existing properties while meeting modern living needs. Our process includes feasibility studies, 3D visualisation, and planning permission support to ensure seamless integration of new spaces. Clients benefit from our expertise in maximising space efficiency without compromising heritage integrity.

Bungalow conversions

Specialists in transforming outdated bungalows through upward extensions, roof modifications, and internal reconfigurations. We address insulation and structural challenges while creating functional multi-level spaces that maintain level access and garden usability.

Period property adaptations

We sensitively modernise listed buildings and conservation area properties while preserving architectural integrity. Our services include heritage impact assessments, liaison with Historic England, and design solutions that balance contemporary needs with period authenticity.

Loft conversions

Maximise your property's potential with loft conversions that create functional living spaces without extending the footprint. We assess structural viability, design elegant dormer solutions, and manage planning requirements for terraced and semi-detached homes.

New-build homes

From concept to completion, we design bespoke new-build homes tailored to client specifications and site conditions. Our services include site analysis, architectural design, and coordination with contractors to deliver energy-efficient, aesthetically striking residences.

People

Alastair Howie

Principal Architect

RIBA Chartered Architect with 30+ years' experience specialising in residential design. Graduated from Scott Sutherland School of Architecture, with expertise in period property transformations and modern extensions.

Will Cork

Part 2 Architectural Assistant

Recent graduate from University of Brighton with award-winning design skills. Specialises in 3D modelling and building regulations drawings, joining the practice in 2024.

Ben Scott

Part 1 Architectural Assistant

Architecture graduate with expertise in planning drawings and 3D visualisation. Joined the team in 2021 after completing his BA Hons at Anglia Ruskin University.

Karen Kelly

Practice Administrator

Over 30 years' administrative experience, managing client communications and project coordination since the practice's founding in 2017. Also Deputy Editor of Uniquely Magazines.

Questions

What architectural services do you specialise in?

We specialise in residential extensions, bungalow conversions, period property adaptations, loft conversions, and new-build homes across Norfolk and Suffolk.

How do you handle planning permission for complex projects?

Our team prepares detailed heritage impact reports, conducts pre-application consultations, and negotiates with local authorities to secure approvals for listed buildings and conservation areas.

Can you help with 3D visualisation of proposed designs?

Yes, we use ArchiCAD and Photoshop to create photorealistic renderings and virtual fly-throughs to help clients visualise final outcomes before construction begins.

What areas do you cover?

Primarily Norwich, Norfolk, and Suffolk, with experience handling projects across the UK including Sussex, Somerset, and London.

How do you approach period property renovations?

We balance heritage preservation with modern functionality, using traditional materials and techniques while incorporating contemporary design elements where appropriate.

What is your design process?

Initial consultation, feasibility study, measured survey, design development, planning submission, building regulations approval, and construction oversight – all tailored to client needs.

Reviews (4)

Write a Review

Gilly

Jun 09, 2019 Report

Alastair is professional and a pleasure to work. He was supportive and proactive throughout the planning process. Alastair is always responsive and we highly recommend him.

Norfolkheatpumps

Dec 25, 2018 Report

Howie Architects provided me with a prompt and intuitive design for my domestic side extension. Responded quickly to any changes.They listened to my requirements and produced an excellent design as well as showing excellent customer after care and supporting me through the building details as required. I would not hesitate to use there services again.

Lesley Connors

Jul 04, 2018 Report

I'd set out to buy a barn conversion & ended up with a 1980's bungalow & ideas to transform it into a very modern 'barn style' single storey dwelling. Alastair not only understood exactly what I wanted to achieve but shared my enthusiasm for the project. His plans are imaginative & innovative & he has come up with a design which maximises the available space to realise my vision of a light, bright family home. I would have no hesitation in recommending Alastair & Howie Architects.

Vicky White

Jun 04, 2017 Report

It was great to wok with Alastair on our project in Norfolk. We had quite a lot of ideas! Alastair listened to everything and translated them into a design that ticked all our boxes.
Alastair held our hands through the design process and really offered fantastic advice and ideas throughout the project.