Business Details
Contemporary Residential Architecture in Leigh-on-Sea
Hedgehog Development is a distinguished architectural practice based in Leigh-on-Sea, specialising in residential architecture across Southend, Leigh-on-Sea, Chalkwell, Westcliff, Thorpe Bay, and surrounding areas. With over 34 years of experience, our director Lindsey Wislocki leads a dedicated team committed to delivering contemporary, bespoke designs tailored to individual client needs. We prioritise a personal touch, ensuring each project receives our full attention from concept to completion. Our expertise spans residential extensions, loft conversions, new builds, and refurbishments, supported by strong local authority relationships and a network of trusted builders. Sustainability is integral to our approach, creating spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Client testimonials highlight our professionalism, prompt communication, and ability to transform visions into reality.We offer a free initial consultation, guiding clients through planning permissions and building regulations with expertise and transparency. Our portfolio showcases diverse projects, from single-storey extensions to full renovations, reflecting our adaptability and creative problem-solving. Recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Architects Registration Board, we combine technical excellence with a client-centric ethos. Whether modernising a period property or designing a new build, we focus on enhancing lifestyles through innovative spatial solutions. Our local knowledge ensures compliance with conservation area requirements while achieving contemporary results. We pride ourselves on clear communication, budget adherence, and delivering spaces that exceed expectations, as evidenced by numerous five-star reviews.
Services
Extensions
Loft Conversions
New Builds
Refurbishments
Kitchens
Commercial Projects
Garden Rooms
Planning Applications
Building Regulations
Sustainable Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of architectural expertise in residential projects
- Our team provides tailored design solutions with a personal touch
- We maintain strong relationships with local planning authorities
- Our approach integrates sustainable design principles
- We offer comprehensive project management from concept to completion
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects
- Architects Registration Board
What people say
Prompt communication
Professional service
Creative solutions
Local knowledge
Stress-free process
Services
Residential Extensions
We design seamless residential extensions that enhance living spaces while maintaining architectural integrity. Our process begins with understanding client needs through initial consultations, followed by creating detailed plans that maximise natural light and spatial flow. We manage planning permissions and building regulations compliance, coordinating with structural engineers and local authorities. Our team oversees construction phases to ensure quality execution of designs ranging from single-storey kitchen extensions to complex multi-room additions. Clients benefit from our local authority expertise and builder network, ensuring projects complete on time and within budget.
Loft Conversions
Our loft conversion service transforms unused roof spaces into functional living areas while adhering to building regulations. We assess structural feasibility, design layouts optimised for headroom and storage, and incorporate appropriate access solutions. The process includes obtaining planning permissions where required, coordinating with specialist contractors for trussed rafter modifications, and ensuring proper insulation and ventilation. We specialise in creating bedrooms, home offices, and recreational spaces that maximise property value while maintaining aesthetic harmony with existing architecture.
New Build Projects
We provide end-to-end new build services from site selection to final inspections. Our approach combines innovative design with practical considerations, creating homes that reflect client lifestyles while meeting sustainability standards. We manage land feasibility studies, planning applications, and building regulations submissions, coordinating with engineers and contractors throughout construction. Our expertise extends to modern methods of construction and traditional building techniques, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic vision and technical excellence within specified budgets.
Refurbishment Projects
Our refurbishment services revitalise existing properties while preserving architectural character. We specialise in modernising period homes, updating kitchens and bathrooms, and reconfiguring internal layouts for contemporary living. The process includes condition assessments, space planning, and material selection advice, balancing heritage considerations with modern functionality. We manage listed building consents where required and coordinate specialist trades for heritage restoration elements, ensuring projects enhance both aesthetics and property value.
Planning Applications
We streamline the planning permission process through expert knowledge of local authority requirements. Our service includes pre-application consultations, preparation of detailed drawings and supporting documents, and ongoing liaison with planning officers. We specialise in securing approvals for challenging projects in conservation areas and for listed buildings, leveraging our established relationships with Southend-on-Sea and Castle Point councils. Our success rate reflects our understanding of current planning policies and effective submission strategies.
People
Lindsey Wislocki
Director
With over 34 years of architectural experience, Lindsey leads Hedgehog Development' residential projects. She specialises in transforming client visions into award-winning designs while maintaining strong local authority relationships. Her expertise spans conservation area projects and modern new builds.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential architecture including extensions, loft conversions, new builds, and refurbishments across Essex.
How do you handle planning permission applications?
We manage full planning applications, leveraging local authority relationships to streamline approvals.
Do you work outside Essex?
While based in Essex, we undertake projects beyond the region with proven success in diverse locations.
How do you ensure sustainable design?
Our approach integrates energy efficiency, material selection, and environmental considerations into every project.
Can you recommend builders for my project?
Yes, we maintain a network of trusted local builders suited to different project requirements.
