Studio MASS is a London residential architecture practice working with homeowners across the capital and the surrounding areas. Since 2017 we have focused on extensions, renovations and full refurbishments of period homes, most often Victorian and Edwardian properties.
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16 customer reviews
A Aquilina
Robert has been excellent throughout our extension project. All of his work has been of a really high standard, and he’s always been responsive to emails and my many questions. He took the time to explain technical details and different options clearly, which made the whole process much less daunting - I’ve essentially had nothing to worry about the whole time, which is ideal! He’s been professional, knowledgeable and easy to work with from start to finish, and I’d happily recommend him to anyone looking for an architect, or for any of his other services. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Nils Wijtzes
Robert was the architect and project lead on our home renovation, which involved a side infill extension, first floor back extension and total gutting of re-doing our terraced property. He liaised with all parties involved including council (getting planning permission), contractors, and other external parties. He understood the brief of the project, was flexible and responsive. We can't recommend him enough! Thanks Robert More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Biagio Cottone
Excellent service provided by Robert for a loft conversion, he has been very patient throughout the process, always available and with some very good ideas. Highly recommended.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Jayne Russell
Robert at Studio Mass designed a new rear extension, new kitchen, bathroom and under-stairs toilet. Given that we were overseas during the whole process, he was able to act as our overseer as well during the build. Robert made everything go smoothly, negotiating the minefield of regulations, council requirements, various suppliers, and the builders.I cant recommend him enough. I would 100% use him again. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Ian
Great service as always from Rob with great ideas for my extension and a very smooth and easy process thanks again Rob.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Joana Vanessa Garcia
We couldn’t be happier with the work from Studio Mass. They understood our vision and worked tirelessly to transform our Victorian house into the space we love. Their crucial guidance on decisions and cleaver ways to handle all the paperwork, help us saved us so much stress, time and money. They have exceeded our expectations – We would recommend for sure! More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
anand shah
Robert took on a complex house renovation with us and was invaluable throughout from review of planning application and structural engineering and keeping an overview of the build. Very approachable, reasonable and considerate and made great suggestions throughout to help the design and build process. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
X. Gordon
It’s my first time taking on a large project, such as a single storey rear and double storey side extension, therefore relied heavily on Robert’s expertise. He was very patient, accommodating and knowledgeable. I would definitely work with him again and would recommend him to family and friends. More...
N. Srisk
It was a pleasure to work with Rob on the designs for our renovation project. This was our first time embarking on such works and he listened carefully to what we wanted, was patient as our ideas evolved over time and was communicative throughout. Our planning permission came through straightaway with no amendments required and he has helped us with the tender process. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to others. More...
T. Hutchings
We are delighted with Rob’s work. He listened to us and has worked hard to change our old Victorian house into a dream. He’s helped us make big decisions and found the best use of space. Studio Mass are everything we hoped for. Plus they’ve done all the paperwork - much of which I would get totally lost in. Couldn’t recommend enough. More...
V. Musat
I have come across Mass on a project that I was working on and I was impressed with the level of detail in his work, I’ve decided to use his services on a personal project and as expected I have received a brilliant service,
It was so easy to work with him, he designed a beautiful project and his knowledge of planning rules meant that we had planning permission granted on the first try
I will be more than happy to recommend his services
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M. Watson
Robert was transparent and professional from the start. He clearly set out the services and the value he could bring to our project (which is an extension and renovation of a Victorian terraced house in East London) and we've been so impressed by his breadth of knowledge and willingness to advise on all elements of a home renovation - from consent and planning to design and dealing with the contractors. We would definitely use Robert again in the future and would recommend Studio:MASS to anyone looking to undertake a similar project. More...
M. Ansari
Excellent Service.... Thats you call get it first time right. We are very happy that Rob managed the whole process smoothly, fluently and to a very positive outcome.
We got the planning approved before the time.
Highly recommended. Just thinking why I didnt find Rob before when had my first extension project done :)
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P. Abedo
Highly recommended. My East London project (a total refurb in a conservation area) was done while I was away from the country.
Robert helped me with all aspects of it and we achieved what we wanted.
He was kind, helpful, creative, answered all my questions and communicated well with the builder.
I am very happy with my house. Still have not met Robert and will work with him again.
Thank you Robert.
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Joana Garcia
Studio MASS handled the design and remodel of my house. They worked through all the rooms, sourcing products and finishes, as well as coordinating and managing the builders.
I was impressed by the knowledge and how smooth the whole process went. Highly recommend!
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Living projects Group
I have worked with Robert on a number of projects. He is very professional and knowledgeable approach with an easy and relaxed style which makes the overall experience enjoyable.
Always on hand to offer creative suggestions and practical solutions.
Robert provide a comprehensive presentation to the local council and was instrumental in securing planning permissions.
I look forward to collaborating with him on my future projects.
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How can someone tell if their loft is suitable for conversion?
The two key things to check are head height and roof structure. You'll need at least 2.2m from the floor joists to the underside of the ridge beam - measure from the highest point of your loft floor to the apex. If you're under that, a dormer or mansard can often create the space. Roof structure matters too: cut rafters are far easier to convert than a modern trussed roof, which requires more structural work to open up. If you're unsure, the best first step is a quick call or site visit - I can usually tell within a few minutes whether a conversion is viable and which type suits your property.
Run us through the different stages in the loft conversion process - what’s involved?
It starts with a measured survey of your existing property, then I develop the design with you and advise on planning. Most loft conversions are Permitted Development and don't need planning permission, but if you're in a conservation area or want a mansard, a full application is required. Once design is agreed, I produce building regulations drawings - the technical package your builder needs to price and build from - and coordinate structural calculations with an engineer. You then go to tender with builders, appoint one, and construction typically takes 8-14 weeks. I can oversee the build too, checking work on site and managing your builder on your behalf throughout.
What’s your interior design process?
My focus is on the architecture and spatial design - how rooms are laid out, where light comes from, how spaces flow and feel - rather than soft furnishings or styling. That said, the two are closely linked. I design with the end result in mind: ceiling heights, window sizes and positions, material finishes, joinery, and how natural light moves through the space at different times of day. For clients who want help with interior specification beyond that, I work alongside trusted interior designers and can recommend the right people for your project.
Which interior design styles can you cater for?
I don't work to a fixed house style, and I'd be cautious of any designer who does. The best projects come from understanding how you actually live and what genuinely suits your home - particularly for London period properties where bold contemporary interventions can work brilliantly alongside original features, or clash horribly if handled without care. My preference is for calm, considered design with strong bones: good proportions, natural materials, plenty of light. But the starting point is always your home, your family, and how you want to use the space.
What do you love most about your job?
The moment a client walks into a finished space for the first time. Most people come to me feeling overwhelmed - they know something isn't working about their home but they can't picture what it could be. Getting them to a place where the house finally fits how they live, and seeing the relief that comes with that, never gets old. I also genuinely enjoy the technical puzzle of it: taking a Victorian terrace with awkward geometry, a tricky planning context, or a tight budget and finding a solution that's clever rather than just expensive.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I wanted to work in a way where I could give clients my full attention and be genuinely accountable for the outcome. In larger practices, residential clients often end up working with junior staff while senior designers move on to the next project. I wanted to be the person you actually deal with from the first conversation to the day the builder hands over the keys - and to take on a small enough number of projects at any one time to do that properly. It also means I can be honest with clients in a way that's harder in a commercial practice: if something isn't the right move for them, I'll say so.
Why should our clients choose you?
You work directly with me throughout - not a junior, not a project manager. I specialise specifically in London period homes: extensions, loft conversions, and refurbishments of Victorian and Edwardian houses. I understand how London planning works, what building in the city actually costs, and what it takes to get a well-designed project built without nasty surprises. I take on a limited number of projects at a time so I can give each one proper attention. And I'll be straight with you: if I think your idea won't work, or there's a better approach, I'll tell you before you spend any money.
Can you provide your services online or remotely? If so, please add details.
Yes - the majority of my work is done remotely outside of site visits. Design consultations, scheme presentations, planning discussions, and project updates all work well over video call, and I use shared drawings and 3D visuals so you can review everything clearly from wherever you are. Site visits are still essential at key stages - measured survey, design review on site, and periodic checks during construction - but you don't need to take time off work for every meeting. Clients based outside London but with London properties are welcome.
What changes have you made to keep your customers safe from Covid-19?
Site visits and in-person meetings are available as normal. For clients who prefer to keep things remote, all consultations and design reviews can be done by video call with no loss of quality - I've worked this way with clients throughout and it suits many people very well. If you have specific requirements around in-person contact, just let me know and we'll arrange things accordingly.
Planning Drawing Package
Full production of all drawings required for a planning application, including existing and proposed floor plans and elevations.
Building Regulations Drawing Package
Full production of all drawings and information required for Building Regulations approval, including Sections, Details and Specifications
Free Architectural Advice Call
We offer free 30 minute consultations to help you with your project.
Measured Survey and Existing Drawings
Full measured survey of the existing property and production of floor plans and elevations.
Party Wall Notices and Awards
We will issue relevant Notices on your behalf and deal with all Party Wall matters including Schedules of Condition, and Awards.
