Conservation & Heritage
As Conservation Architects, much of our work is undertaken in a heritage context. We understand the complexities of working on listed and historic structures and our team of experienced professionals are here to provide guidance and advice throughout the process. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver sympathetic developments and alterations that add value and respect the building’s integrity.
Our Conservation Philosophy
It is our strong belief that heritage assets should be constantly maintained and sensitively adapted to ensure their future use and enjoyment. Conservation architecture is the creative process of looking after a building or place that is part of our heritage so as to retain its special characteristics, its sense of place, conservatively repair its defects, and secure its future safety.
Our work is underpinned by our thorough historic research and understanding of the significance of a building and its context, we do this by researching and analysing its fabric, construction, history, function, aesthetic qualities, and communal value.
“The purpose of repair is to restrain the process of decay, by keeping repair works to the minimum required to stabilise and conserve the building without damaging the character of the building. To not alter the features which give them their historic or architectural importance, or unnecessarily disturb or destroy historic fabric. The unnecessary replacement of fabric will have an adverse effect on the appearance of a building and will seriously diminish its authenticity.”
Brereton, C. ‘The repair of historic buildings: advice on principle and methods’ , English Heritage, 1991
Our Specialisms
Our team has the knowledge and expertise to undertake the necessary research to understand the context of the building and its history and the relevant planning and conservation policies. We can provide advice on the application process itself, ensuring all relevant documentation is included, as well as ensuring any potential objections are addressed.
We strive to make the process as constructive and efficient as possible, giving the proposal the best possible chance of success. Our commitment to quality and our wealth of experience has shown that the appropriate approach to both the design and the application itself pays dividends.
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We conduct comprehensive historic building research to thoroughly investigate a property's history, providing a strong foundation for informed conservation strategies and design choices. Our heritage statements offer detailed documentation of a property's heritage value and significance within the context of a project. Through this in-depth understanding, we propose designs that are sympathetic to the historic fabric and prepare well-reasoned arguments supporting proposed changes to a historic building. This ensures alignment with conservation principles and increases the likelihood of obtaining listed building consent.
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We support our clients by assessing the current condition of a building to pinpoint areas that need attention or restoration
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We guide our clients through the application process for listed buildings, providing expert assistance to ensure successful outcomes and compliance with conservation policies
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Creating designs and specifications that preserve the character of historic buildings while enabling functional updates.
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Providing detailed plans for restoration, repair, or maintenance work in line with conservation best practices.
Examples of Our Conservation Projects
