Designing Smarter: Understanding Permitted Development and Making the Most of Natural Light

At Peter Hitchen Architects, we help homeowners unlock the full potential of their properties, not just by gaining the relevant approval, but by creating homes that are comfortable, efficient, and designed for everyday living. 

Based in Whalley and working across the Ribble Valley and North West, we are a RIBA Chartered Practice with a strong track record in both residential and commercial projects. From small home improvements to full new builds, we support clients through every stage - from feasibility and design, to planning and project completion. 

Two of the most valuable tools in many home projects are Permitted Development rights and natural light to improve the quality of the internal environment and understanding how they work together can help you get more from your space, your budget, and your home. 

What is Permitted Development? 

Permitted Development (PD) rights are a set of planning rules that allow certain types of building work to be carried out without full planning permission. These rules apply to many common residential improvements, including: 

·         Rear Extensions - Many single-storey rear extensions are allowed under PD, provided they fall within set depth and height limits based on the type of property. These are often used to create open-plan kitchen-dining areas or improve the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

·         Loft Conversions with Dormers - Converting your loft into usable living space is often permitted under PD, including the addition of rear dormer windows to increase headroom and floor space. These conversions must stay within a defined volume limit and must not exceed the existing roof height. A well-designed loft conversion can add a generous extra bedroom, home office, or guest suite, often making the most of elevated views and natural light that aren’t available elsewhere in the house. 

·         Garage Conversions - If your garage is attached and not structurally separate, you can often convert it into habitable space under PD. This can be a cost-effective way to add a home office, utility room, or playroom without changing the overall footprint of your house.

·         Garden Buildings and Home Offices - Outbuildings such as sheds, garden rooms, or offices are generally allowed under PD if they meet specific size and location criteria. These structures must be used for purposes incidental to the main house (like working from home or storage) and not as self-contained accommodation.

·         Solar Panels and Small Porches - In most cases, you can install solar panels on your roof under PD, helping to improve your home’s sustainability. You can also add a small front porch, provided it stays within the permitted size and height limits.

PD is designed to simplify the planning process for modest, well considered changes - but it still comes with specific conditions, and not every property qualifies. If your home is in a conservation area, is listed, or is affected by an Article 4 Direction, your rights may be restricted or removed altogether. 

We always carry out thorough necessary checks before proceeding with any PD based project. And where applicable, we recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate which is an official confirmation from the local authority that your plans comply with PD rules. This is especially useful when selling or remortgaging. 

Even if planning permission isn’t required, you may still need Building Regulations approval, a Party Wall Agreement, or Prior Approval, depending on the type and location of your project. 

Designing with Natural Light in Mind 

Once we know what’s possible in planning terms, the next step is to design a home that works not just legally, but beautifully. One of the most effective ways to do that is to make full use of natural light. 

Daylight plays a key role in how we experience a space. It improves wellbeing, reduces energy use, and makes rooms feel more open and connected. In our design process, we look at the orientation of your home. South facing rooms get consistent light through the day, while east and west facing spaces catch the sun at different times. North facing rooms can still work well with the right layout and material choices. 

Through careful planning like strategic window placement, rooflights, and open internal layouts we can ensure light reaches even the deepest parts of your home. This is especially important in extensions, loft conversions, and tight plots where boundaries or neighbouring properties limit external wall space. 

We also consider external factors like fencing, trees and garden buildings, which can unintentionally block valuable light. By treating the indoor and outdoor spaces as one, we help clients get more from both. 

A Practical and Creative Approach 

Permitted Development opens up exciting opportunities but it’s not just about what you’re allowed to build. It’s about building smarter, using natural light, space and layout to improve how your home feels every day. 

At Peter Hitchen Architects, we combine technical knowledge with creative design thinking. We tailor our services to suit your needs, whether you need full support from start to finish, or expert advice on one part of the process. 

Trusted Local Connections That Support Your Project 

We also have strong working relationships with trusted local builders and tradespeople across the Ribble Valley and wider North West. Over the years, we’ve built up a network of reliable contractors, consultants and suppliers who share our commitment to quality and professionalism. Whether you need a builder, structural engineer, renewable energy specialist or joiner, we’re happy to recommend experienced teams who can help bring your project to life - often streamlining the process and keeping costs under control. 

Thinking About a Project? 

If you’re planning a home improvement or extension project and want to make the most of what’s possible. Whether through Permitted Development or thoughtful, light-filled design, we’d be happy to help. Contact us at peter@peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk, call us on 07850405126, or visit www.peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk to start a conversation about how good architecture can make your home more practical, more efficient, and more enjoyable to live in. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook to see more of our recent work and ideas.