Commercial to Residential Conversion Approval in Wood Green, Haringey N22

Project Overview

This project involved the conversion of commercial office space above a shop on High Road in Wood Green, Haringey, into multiple new self-contained flats. The approved scheme also included an extension and a loft conversion with a rear dormer to maximise the development potential of the upper floors.

As part of the planning application, our team provided architectural design and planning support for a property developer seeking to unlock additional residential value from an existing mixed-use building.

Projects of this nature require a careful planning-led approach. Commercial to residential conversions, upper-floor flat conversions in London, roof extensions and rear dormers can all raise policy, amenity, design and access considerations. Our architectural design services help developers assess feasibility, prepare robust drawings and progress planning applications with a clear strategy from the outset.

Design & Planning Strategy

The proposal sought to make better use of underutilised commercial office space above the existing shop, creating a more efficient residential layout and delivering additional self-contained flats in a sustainable town centre location.

The design strategy focused on converting the existing upper-floor accommodation, extending the building where appropriate and incorporating a loft conversion with a rear dormer to increase usable floor area. Careful consideration was given to the scale, massing and appearance of the roof extension, particularly its relationship with the existing building, neighbouring properties and the wider High Road street scene.

From a planning perspective, we assessed key issues including residential quality, internal layouts, outlook, daylight, privacy, overlooking, waste storage, cycle parking, access and the impact on neighbouring amenity. The submission was prepared to address the relevant Haringey planning policies and support the case for new residential accommodation.

Our team coordinated the architectural drawings, planning documents and supporting information required for submission to Haringey Council. The application demonstrated how the existing building could be adapted to provide much-needed housing while making more productive use of commercial upper-floor space.

Project Highlights

• Commercial office space above a shop converted into multiple self-contained flats
• Upper-floor residential conversion in Wood Green, Haringey N22
• Loft conversion with rear dormer to increase usable residential floor area
• Extension designed to improve the viability and value of the development
• Planning-led layout strategy for a property developer
• Comprehensive architectural drawings and planning documents prepared for Haringey Council

Outcome

Planning approval was secured in January 2025, allowing the developer to progress with the conversion and intensification of the existing building.

The approved scheme creates multiple new self-contained flats above the existing commercial premises, improving the long-term use and value of the property while contributing additional housing in a well-connected Wood Green location.

If you are a property developer considering a commercial to residential conversion, flat conversion, airspace development, loft conversion or mixed-use development in Haringey or elsewhere in London, our planning-led architectural team can help you assess feasibility, develop the design and manage the planning application process.

Project reference: 2394AS_FUL

Next steps: If you’re ready to discuss your own development project, schedule a call with our team.

Explore more examples in our Approved Projects gallery.