Current Projects
At the Architect Studio, we offer our clients comprehensive assistance by serving as the lead consultant and primary professional adviser, leading a skilled team of professionals across disciplines.
Our involvement extends from the initial phases, where we contribute to the conception of projects, all the way through to the preparation and submission of planning applications. We also guide and oversee the project through its entire process, supervising its successful completion so you can fully enjoy your historic building once again.
The following are some of the projects where we have been involved to advise and assist our clients realise their vision.
The recent repair works involved essential retrofit measures, ensuring the building's sustainability for the future, which goes beyond merely reducing carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency; it also guarantees continuous use, generating vital revenue for the Trust's ongoing maintenance efforts. See a short video of the works on our Instagram profile.
This Grade II listed residential property within the Saffron Walden Conservation Area, with a C15 origin, has predominantly served as a residence for the last 150 years. The Architect Studio was appointed to undertake historical research of the property to inform future refurbishment design work that would involve repairing the building fabric, optimising the first-floor layout, and upgrading services.
Our recent project at Warley Place Nature Reserve in Brentwood posed unique challenges, given the inherent richness of the area's biodiversity. The synergy between repairing derelict garden walls and ecological preservation became evident as we carefully crafted solutions to minimise disruption to the surroundings. This delicate balance with nature reinforces our commitment to sustainable practices in every project we undertake. See a short video of the works on our Instagram profile.
Sensitive repairs and internal refurbishment have been envisaged for this prominent property in Wymondham, to reinstate the former layout of the rooms and provide additional services to bring it up to current needs in a sympathetic manner.
The property underwent substantial changes over the years, leading to the loss of its historic charm, particularly from the mid to late 20th century. A notable modification involved replacing the traditional gable roof with a modern flat roof, diminishing the house's overall character. The design project aimed to recapture its authenticity by reintroducing a gable roof for added space and implementing internal refurbishments, along with upgraded services.
Patricia, as the Inspecting Architect for this church under the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese, conducted the quinquennial inspection in early 2024. The findings highlighted numerous concerns stemming from the improper use of cement mortars, adversely impacting the internal environment of this significant Suffolk church. Patricia remains committed to advising the Parochial Church Council on the continuous maintenance required to preserve the integrity of this piece of history.
A Grade II listed property from C16/C17 century origins, used for residential purposes since its farming origins. Refurbishment plans aim to maintain residential use, reintroduce lost features like a fireplace and staircase, and enhance livable spaces. Traditional materials will complement existing ones, with repairs undertaken on a like-for-like basis unless historical issues require different methods.
St. Peter Hungate, a Grade I listed building in Norwich's City Centre Conservation Area, transitioned from a church to be the first museum of ecclesiastical art in 1933, thanks to local efforts. Although it closed in 1995. The Architect Studio, commissioned by Hungate Medieval Art, a local Trust leasing the building was tasked with designing a new doorway reusing a former door opening that used to connect the church with a demolished vestry. The extension's design work is yet to be developed.
As the Inspecting Architect for this church under the Diocese of Chelmsford, Patricia carried out the quinquennial inspection in early 2022. A comprehensive report, inclusive of repair and maintenance recommendations, along with estimated costs, was submitted to both the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC). This information serves to assist in financial planning for the church's future upkeep.
Under the same ownership and situated within the Colchester Town Centre Conservation Area, number 30 faced planning challenges due to previous work not aligning with approved permissions. The Architect Studio played a key role in negotiating with the local planning authority to address these issues. Following a successful negotiation, the client, a property investor, appointed TAS again to develop planning proposals for the rear extension of number 28, which also achieved planning permission.
It is part of a Benefice with Anstey, Hormead, Meesden and Wyddial. The church is under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of St Albans. A comprehensive report, inclusive of repair and maintenance recommendations, along with estimated costs, was submitted to both the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC). This information serves to assist in financial planning for the church's future upkeep.