Architects serving clients in Dronfield, Holmesfield and North Derbyshire.
Brightman Clarke Architects is an award-winning, RIBA-chartered practice that specialises in designing high-end, bespoke homes and extensions across North Derbyshire in areas like Coal Aston, Dronfield, Holmesfield and Barlow.
Our client-focused design service offers everything from self-build new homes and substantial renovations to sophisticated house extensions.
Thoughtful Extensions | Total Home Renovations | Luxury New Build Homes
Your Vision, Our Expertise.
At Brightman Clarke Architects, you are at the heart of every design we create. Based in the nearby village of Dore, just a short distance from Dronfield, we deeply understand the area’s distinctive charm, character, and planning landscape.
Our team regularly works with homeowners in Dronfield, Dronfield Woodhouse, and surrounding villages such as Apperknowle, Coal Aston, Barlow, and Holmesfield. With extensive local knowledge, we understand the complexities of planning requirements and create exceptional designs that seamlessly fit your lifestyle.
Whether you're planning a thoughtfully designed extension or a bespoke new-build home, our aim is to craft a design that not only fulfils your aspirations but also sits beautifully within its surroundings.
We work closely with you to bring your vision to life, always mindful that this is your home, not ours. At Brightman Clarke Architects, we help you create a home that is as unique as you are.
Architect for House Extensions in and around Dronfield.
Are you looking for an architect who regularly works in and around Dronfield and can transform your family home with a thoughtfully designed extension?
Brightman Clarke Architects specialises in single-storey extensions, complete home refurbishments, and multi-storey transformations, creating more space for living, entertaining, and relaxing.
Beyond extra bedrooms and living areas, our bespoke designs can include:
Home offices and libraries: ideal for remote work or quiet study.
Entertainment rooms, games areas, and private cinemas bring leisure into your home.
Wellness spaces from home gyms to luxurious spas and indoor pools.
Every design is shaped by your vision, ensuring your new space enhances your lifestyle and blends beautifully with your home. Discover examples of our completed projects here.
We promise to put you at the heart of our design process.
New build & self-build homes in North Derbyshire
Are you looking to build a new home in Dronfield, Dronfield Woodhouse, or nearby villages like Holmesfield, Barlow, Apperknowle, and Coal Aston? Or perhaps a rural plot on the edge of the Peak District?
We specialise in self-build and new homes, providing a full concept-to-completion design service.
With extensive local knowledge, we navigate the Green Belt, Conservation Areas, and complex planning rules, ensuring designs that comply with regulations and enhance their surroundings.
Using carefully chosen materials and modern construction techniques, our pragmatic, sustainable approach balances design, budget, and environmental impact.
Explore our portfolio and see what’s possible.
As a RIBA Chartered Practice, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Our team includes ARB-registered architects alongside experienced architectural technologies and designers, delivering exceptional service and reassuring quality at every stage.
Choosing a RIBA-accredited practice means you can rely on our architectural expertise and commitment to excellence.
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![Architect Designed Contemporary New Home]()
Architect Designed Contemporary New Home
“…Their designs are both stunning and practical, and from a builder point of view they are achievable, which translates to a successful build in terms of timings, cost and end product… We have no hesitation recommending Brightman Clarke to anybody seeking an architect.”
Whitshaw Builders
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![Sensitive House Extension]()
A Sensitive House Extension
“ We chose Brightman Clarke after meeting with Chris Brightman… They were the most interested in our ideas and wishes of all the architects we saw, but also came up with solutions we would not have thought of… No hesitation in recommending them and in fact we have done so several times already. “
Ruth
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![Extension & Total House Refurbishment]()
Extension & Total House Refurbishment
“A tired 60's house with lots of potential that the team at Brightman Clarke helped us realise. Couldn't have asked for more. Highly recommended!”
John
Frequently Asked Questions
Every project is unique; no single answer on our website will cover your project perfectly.
But here are some ballpark answers to try and help give you a starting point.
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We focus on high-end / luxury residential projects, with budgets starting around £100,000 for extensions. Our expertise spans luxury extensions, complete home renovations, and new-build houses / self-build homes.
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The estimated starting cost for extensions is £2,500–£3,000 per square metre (including VAT). Note that this does not cover professional fees, landscaping, or internal reconfigurations.
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Our fees are tailored to your project’s needs. After your ‘Kickstart’ Design Consultation, we provide a transparent fee proposal outlining costs and timelines.
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Planning is a crucial topic we cover in your initial Kickstart Design Consultation.
In brief: Yes, you will likely need planning permission or a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) if you plan to:
Build something new
Make significant changes, like a large extension
Change the use of your property
What are Permitted Development Rights?
Some types of work can be done without planning permission under permitted development rights. However, these guidelines are complex and open to interpretation. For clarity and certainty, we always recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC).What is a Lawful Development Certificate?
An LDC, issued by your local council, confirms that your project doesn’t need planning permission. It is not a substitute for planning consent but provides legal assurance for your proposed work. -
Designing and building a home is a collaborative process that typically takes 18–24 months from our initial meeting to project completion.
What next: building a new home or extending a house in North Derbyshire
Building a new home or expanding a cherished one is an exciting, collaborative journey that takes many months. Choosing the right architects is one of the most significant decisions you will make to ensure success.
As local architects who regularly work in Dronfield and the surrounding area, we understand that the local character and your unique vision are essential for truly creating your home.
At Brightman Clarke Architects, we offer a bespoke 'Kickstart' design consultation, the initial step in our distinctive design process—an approach that sets us apart as leading architects working in Dronfield, Dronfield Woodhouse, or nearby villages like Holmesfield, Barlow, Apperknowle, and Coal Aston.
During this consultation, we take the time to get to know you, understand your needs, and explore your vision. We meet at your home (or onsite) to listen closely to your aspirations and discuss ideas, design concepts, planning requirements, and initial timelines.
But it doesn’t end there: after our meeting, we provide a comprehensive design report that encapsulates our discussion and outlines preliminary design principles. This detailed report propels your project forward with clarity and momentum.
Our clients in Dronfield and surrounding areas consistently find this process invaluable, setting the stage for an inspiring and successful design journey.
Whether building a new or planning a bespoke extension, choosing Brightman Clarke Architects means partnering with experienced architects who prioritise your vision every step.