
Unlocking the potential of property for design-led property investors
What We Do.
We help design-led property investors transform run-down properties and challenging sites into high-value assets and quality homes —whether it's a HMO conversion, plot of land, commercial building or flat conversion project across the UK.
Our Services
Exclusively For Design Led Property Investors
Whether you are new to property investing or a seasoned investor, we’re here to help.
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Sometimes, you don’t need a full architectural appointment, but you still want to tap into an architect’s expertise. That’s where our 1-1 Zoom Design Surgeries come in—flexible, pay-as-you-go sessions, available when you need them.
Perfect for:
Reviewing potential deals or properties before making an offer
Getting advice on how to optimise floor plans and maximise property value
Seeking second opinions on your designs or plans from other architects
Building confidence as a new investor in assessing projects
Clarifying planning implications for your project
Solving tricky design challenges, like problem rooms
Note: Sessions are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis each month.
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Our Design Feasibility Studies are the first step in turning your vision into reality. We take your detailed brief and use our expertise to create 3-5 floor plan options, maximising every millimetre of space. After your review, we refine the design into a final plan, incorporating any feedback and conducting initial planning research (if required).
This helps you:
Understand the full potential of your site or property and explore different layout options, including extension possibilities
Consider multiple strategies or fallback options if you're undecided on the best approach
Deliverables:
3-5 layout options, including room sizes and furniture arrangements, presented in a professional PDF booklet
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We’ll guide you through the entire planning application and listed building consent process, handling everything from start to finish—beyond just the drawings.
Our designs are tailored to maximise space while being informed by thorough local planning research, giving you the best chance of securing approval. With a 95% approval rate across 44+ councils (as of Feb 2025), we proactively monitor all applications, stay in regular contact with planning officers, and address any potential issues swiftly.
We’re also experienced in complex planning matters, including Sui Generis HMO applications, Article 4 areas, Conservation Areas, and Listed Buildings.
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While LDCs aren’t mandatory for permitted development works, we recommend submitting one for the following reasons and we can take care of the entire process for you:
Peace of mind – Get formal confirmation from your local planning authority that your works fall under permitted development.
Lender confidence – Some lenders may require an LDC to confirm the works are permitted.
Future sale – An LDC can help prove that your completed works comply, simplifying the selling process.
Neighbour disputes – If issues arise with neighbours, an LDC provides official paperwork showing the works are permitted.
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We offer a flexible post-planning drawing service, including full Building Regulations and tender packages, or individual "bolt-on" drawings like electrical and lighting layouts, as needed.
Please note: We do not provide on-site services, project management, or contract administration. After we provide your drawings, you’ll be responsible for appointing and managing your own contractor.
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Are you a landowner with unused land — whether it’s empty, has existing buildings, or a large side or rear garden?
Thinking about its potential for development but put off by the costs, planning hurdles, and hassle?
That’s where we come in. We offer a no-risk, hassle-free solution. Partner with us to unlock your land’s full potential and maximise your return with our creative, design-focused approach.
Find out more here
We can also partner with Land Sourcers on a JV basis.
More information can be found in our Architectural Service Pack Download.
Want to know more about us? ↓
Testimonials
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"When people ask for a recommendation for a good architect, I never hesitate to recommend Emma, but not without a small amount of fear that I’m letting my secret weapon out the bag!..."
Jessica Leader, Next Level Living
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"Have worked with Portfolio Architects on numerous projects now and can't recommend them enough. Great ideas, a passion for the work, and a dedication to helping us deliver the project we want."
Mike Stenhouse , Inside Property Investing
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" Portfolio Architects are extremely good....Emma was professional, responsive, creative and flexible. We are so happy we finally found a good architect for our business. We definitely recommend them and we will work with them again for sure!"
Berengere Guery, BeeVee
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" Emma and her team are fantastic and went over and above for our tricky project. I wouldn't hesitate to use their services again!"
Kim Opszala, Komo Properties
569+
HMO bedrooms & counting since 2017
Stats Last updated Feb 2025
105+
New dwellings or flats created through new build or conversion
44+
Councils submitted planning applications in
95%
Planning Application Success Rate
Our Projects
Small HMOs <6 bedrooms
Large HMOs 7+ bedrooms
Flat Conversions
Commercial to Residential
HMO Article 4 Areas
Listed Buildings & Conversion Areas
Mixed Use Developments
New Build Developments

New to HMO Investing?
Download our Ultimate Step by Step Cheat Sheet for HMO Conversions completely free for a limited time
Our Clients
We proudly work with some of the UK’s leading SME property developers committed to creating high quality rental accommodation and homes in their respective areas whilst building profitable and long-lasting property portfolios.