The conversion of a building to a suitable use is often the key to its retention or, in the case of an architecturally or historically important building, to its long-term preservation.

Successful conversion of a property can give a new lease of life to a rundown area and act as a stimulus to change.

Also, the embodied energy contained within the original structure will often render a conversion inherently more sustainable than building a new one. Appropriate, adaptive reuse is, therefore, at the vanguard of the delivering sustainable development.

Achieving a proper balance between the financial considerations of a conversion and meeting both the terms of the Building Regulations and the special needs of an historic building is a demanding task that requires specialist knowledge.

The practice has demonstrated a flexible approach to the problems of conversion as well as an enthusiasm to use the spaces contained within the buildings creatively rather than adopt an obvious or standard solution.

Projects

Botany Cottage, Weeley
•   Located in Weeley Heath, Claton, Essex, England
•   Alteration and 250mē extension of vernacular cottage to substantial family
•   residence
•   Appointed for the design and planning stage by the owner / occupier
•   Full planning consent granted and construction commenced in 2010

Granville Park, Blackheath