--- title: "Keeping it local | Andrew Catto Architects" description: "Architectural insights and expert guidance for Putney SW15 projects. A finished kitchen extension, a renovation behind it, and the neighbours saying 'us too,..." canonical_url: https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/keeping-it-local/ language: en last_updated: 2026-08-02 copyright: © 2026 Andrew Catto Architects Limited --- [Back to Blog](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/) News # Keeping it local A finished kitchen extension, a renovation behind it, and the neighbours saying 'us too, please'. ![Melissa Lawrence](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/images/team/melissa-lawrence.jpg) Melissa Lawrence Director/Architect May 2025 1 min read Visiting one completed project a couple of years ago I couldn’t resist taking this picture. Looking out from one newly finished kitchen extension at a whole house renovation we had underway in the street behind. Now that scaffolding is one house to the left. Next door loved what they saw, and said ‘*Us too, please!*’. ### About the Author #### Melissa Lawrence Director and RIBA-accredited architect with over 25 years of experience across Brazil and London. Specializes in residential and commercial projects, with particular expertise in client liaison and sustainable design solutions. Specializing in news and sustainable design practices. [View Full Profile](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/team/#melissa-lawrence) ## Related Articles Continue exploring our insights on architecture, design, and construction ![Why you should choose a local architect - Related architecture article](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-8ccba746-d0cd-49e9-a747-2e71833fe138n4osli-ba70798b-1775945489802.jpg/putney-architecture-8ccba746-d0cd-49e9-a747-2e71833fe138n4osli-ba70798b-1775945489802_tablet.webp) November 2025•5 min read ### Why you should choose a local architect Choosing a local architect means working with someone who truly understands the character, planning rules, and building culture of your area, which often leads to smoother approvals, more accurate cost estimates, and a more efficient build. A local architect can visit the site easily, respond quickly to issues, and design spaces that fit both the neighbourhood and your lifestyle. [Read More](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/why-you-should-choose-a-local-architect/) ![5 Party Wall mistakes that could derail your home extension - Related architecture article](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-p10606031oxaxku-c17e5f81-1775945478713.jpg/putney-architecture-p10606031oxaxku-c17e5f81-1775945478713_tablet.webp) November 2025•6 min read ### 5 Party Wall mistakes that could derail your home extension The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 catches homeowners by surprise. The five most damaging mistakes, and how to avoid each one. [Read More](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/5-party-wall-mistakes-that-could-derail-your-home-extension/) ![Putney Architects - Related architecture article](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-blog-8819e9f8-c14a-400f-98d2-bab2d4e636a3-92568e13-00664b18-1760993827998.jpg/putney-architecture-blog-8819e9f8-c14a-400f-98d2-bab2d4e636a3-92568e13-00664b18-1760993827998_tablet.webp) July 2025•3 min read ### Putney Architects Local, experienced, sustainable architects specialising in Putney planning success. [Read More](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/putney-architects/) ## Ready to Start Your Project? Let's discuss how we can bring your architectural vision to life with our expertise and innovative approach. --- [Original page](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/blog/keeping-it-local/) ## Sitemap [sitemap.md](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/sitemap.md) · [llms.txt](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/llms.txt)