Camden
Installation of a second floor rear roof terrace retrospective
Roof terrace/ balcony
Development Type
Outbuilding/ Outhouses
Shop front alterations/signage
Borough
Camden
96 Marchmont Street, London, WC1N 1AG
Before
After
Outbuilding, Alterations to shopfront. New signage
External alterations, including replacement of timber framed shopfront and commercial entrance door at ground floor level with aluminium framed shopfront and glazed door; replacement of aluminium framed residential entrance door with timber framed panelled door and fanlight above; and installation of entrance ramp/platform.
4D Planning assisted a high end dental practise in Camden to achieve planning permission for a new and updated shop front. We designed the signage to respect the Conservation Area and historic character of the property and surroundings. We prepared the architectural drawings, planning statement, application documents and liaised with the planning officers throughout the planning assessment period. The application was granted planning permission and we achieved advertisement consent for the new signs.
We then applied separately for planning consent for erection of an outbuilding at the rear of the site. The outbuilding would be used for storage and office for members of staff. The application was retrospective. We prepared a strong case and argued with the Conservation Officer why the materials, although not strictly sympathetic to the surroundings, were acceptable. Planning permission was granted for this as well.
When planning to install new signage or alter the facade of a shop front on the high street in Camden, it’s important to understand the requirements, policies and guidance for both planning permission and advertisement consent. Camden Council enforces regulations to ensure that changes respect the character of the surrounding area, especially if the shop is located in a conservation area. Signage must be in keeping with the general aesthetic of the street and not overly stand out or disrupt the local architectural rhythm. Our architectural drawings always showcase each project in the best possible way to ensure the council understand are happy with the scheme.
In areas where conservation rules apply, signage must conform to strict guidelines. It needs to reflect the historical and architectural character of the area, meaning flashy, overly modern, or illuminated signs may be rejected. Instead, simple, elegant signage that complements the surrounding buildings is more likely to gain approval. External lighting, if proposed, should be subtle and appropriate to the street's aesthetic, avoiding excessive brightness or colour and should be static if possible. We always advise our clients to avoid internal lighting as the planning officers do not like this. There are different types of external lighting that look good and would make the signs clear at night. We have many sample projects to showcase to our new clients with our recommendations.
Modifying a shopfront’s facade also requires careful attention to detail. Camden’s planning officers will review proposed materials, colours, and the overall design to ensure that the alterations fit within the character of the high street and nearby properties. Retaining traditional features, if applicable, often helps secure approval.
4D Planning has extensive experience helping businesses in Camden obtain planning permission and advertisement consent for shopfront alterations and signage. Our team has successfully worked on projects in Camden’s conservation areas, ensuring compliance with local planning rules while achieving the desired design for the client.
For assistance with your shopfront alterations or new signage, contact 4D Planning today for a free consultation. We can guide you through the planning process and help you secure permission for your business project.
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