Studio
Creating homes as unique as the people they’re made for.
We are residential architects who design homes made for your way of life.
We specialise in contemporary residential architecture, creating distinctive private homes across London, Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex and the South East.
We design contemporary homes that excite and inspire – whether it’s a modern new build in the countryside, a bold renovation of a period property, or a transformative extension in a conservation area.
In our work, form and function meet family – your family. Our architecture is always personal, crafted to reflect how you live, and made to enrich your everyday experience.
We’re passionate about modern architecture with enduring quality. And while we love clean lines and bold forms, we also have a deep respect for context and heritage. Our portfolio includes new-build homes, major refurbishments, and substantial extensions, all tailored to the individual ambitions of our clients.
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Working With
Hobden Butler
Who We Are
We’re a small, experienced team of architects who have designed thoughtful, contemporary homes across the South East for over a decade, and who care deeply about good design – and the people it’s made for.
Led by founding directors Richard Hobden and Jonathan Butler, we bring clarity, creativity and considered detail to every project. From first conversation to final handover, we work closely with our clients to create considered homes that are both beautifully crafted
Jonathan Butler
Architect / Co-Founder
Jonathan is a founding director of Hobden Butler and a skilled designer with a deep appreciation for context, craft, and contemporary living. With over 20 years’ experience in private residential architecture across the South East, his work is defined by clarity, confidence and a strong connection to place.
He has particular expertise in high-end private homes, planning negotiation, heritage and listed buildings, as well as contract management. Whether shaping new-builds or sensitively reimagining existing properties, Jonathan brings a practical, hands-on approach and an eye for bold yet buildable ideas.
For Jonathan, great design starts with listening – understanding what clients truly want from their home and translating that into elegant, forward-thinking architecture. You’ll usually find him sketching – pencil in hand, ideas flowing – often from the earliest stages of a conversation.
When not immersed in a project, Jonathan’s likely teaching his young daughter to draw and paint, out on his bike tackling steep hills and soaking up the calm of the countryside, or training for his next cycling challenge. He also acts as a trustee and design adviser for a local charity in his village.
Richard Hobden
Architect / Co-Founder
Richard is a founding director of Hobden Butler and a passionate advocate for contemporary, beautifully detailed architecture. He believes that every home should be both personal and purposeful – designed to enrich everyday life and respond thoughtfully to its context.
He works closely with clients from the earliest conversations, drawing out what matters most and translating it into bold, elegant solutions. For Richard, the joy of architecture lies in that moment when a great idea begins to take shape – and in the rigour that brings it to life.
Throughout his career, Richard worked with a multi-award-winning studio on projects across residential, commercial, retail, education and leisure sectors throughout London and the South East.
Outside of architecture, Richard dedicates time to Noah’s Big Charity – a cause very close to his heart. As a trustee (alongside his wife), he has regularly taken on endurance challenges to raise awareness and funds. Running, swimming and the occasional cycle ride keep him grounded – and just the right side of competitive. Co-organising an annual golf day to support the charity keeps him semi-respectable on the golf course, whilst a recently found love of padel tennis requires a little more practice.