Conservation & Heritage

Listed building consent is generally required for alterations, extensions or demolition that could affect the special architectural or historic character of a listed building. This can include internal alterations, changes to windows and doors, removal of historic features and some repair works.

Listing normally applies to the whole building, both inside and outside, and may also include associated structures. Planning permission or other approvals may be required separately. We can review the proposed work at an early stage and advise which consents are likely to be needed.

Yes. Listing does not prevent a building from being extended, but any addition must respond carefully to its character, significance and setting.

A successful extension begins with understanding which parts of the building are most sensitive and where change can be accommodated. Its scale, position, form, materials and architectural character should then be developed as part of a clear and well reasoned design approach.

Our combined architectural, planning and heritage expertise allows us to consider the design and consent strategy together, creating additions that meet our clients’ needs while respecting the qualities that make the building special.

Yes. Historic buildings often need to evolve if they are to remain useful, comfortable and valued.

Alterations might improve circulation, accessibility, natural light, services or the relationship between different spaces. The key is to understand which features are significant and where changes can be made with the least harm. This allows the building to meet contemporary needs while retaining the qualities that make it distinctive.

Yes. Historic buildings can often be made warmer, healthier and more efficient through carefully selected improvements to insulation, windows, heating, ventilation and building services.

Traditional buildings manage heat and moisture differently from modern construction, so standard solutions are not always suitable. Each measure should be considered in relation to the building as a whole to avoid condensation, trapped moisture or damage to historic fabric.

A heritage statement explains the history and significance of a building or site and assesses how proposed work may affect it.

It helps the planning authority understand which features are important, why changes are being proposed and how the design has responded to the building’s character. A clear heritage statement supports the application by bringing together the research, design reasoning and heritage assessment in one document.

We guide our clients through the consent process from the earliest stages, helping to identify which approvals are required and how best to approach the planning authority.

Our architectural, planning and heritage expertise allows us to develop the design and its supporting case together. We prepare the necessary drawings and heritage documentation, explain how the proposals respond to the significance of the building and liaise with conservation officers and planning authorities throughout the application. This provides a clear and coordinated process and gives the proposals the best possible chance of success.

Historic houses can contain hidden defects, structural weaknesses, damp, outdated services or fragile materials that only become apparent as work progresses. Consent requirements, specialist craftsmanship and the availability of suitable materials can also affect the programme and cost.

We help manage these risks through early investigation, appropriate surveys and careful coordination with specialist consultants and contractors. Where uncertainty remains, we develop the project in stages and allow important decisions to be reviewed as more information becomes available. This helps reduce surprises while ensuring that unexpected findings are handled carefully and proportionately.