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Historic and Listed Buildings
What must you consider when refurbishing or converting an historic or listed building? Working with listed buildings requires sensitivity and respect, but this shouldn’t prevent you from unlocking their potential.
The Past is an Asset
Listed buildings are considered to be architectural and cultural assets. Their conversion, refurbishment and extension require a highly creative and appropriate response.
Often, it means working within certain boundaries, but this can produce intriguing and memorable spaces. Any new architectural design should allow a listed building’s existing architectural language to guide it. This way, the new harmonises with the old.
Such designs require special planning consent, but this shouldn’t put you off planning a project around a listed building. We thrive on problem-solving and we’ve had proven success working on different historic and listed buildings.
Want to know more?
Frequently asked questions.
What is a listed building?
The Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act of 1990 policy states for a building to be listed in England and Wales it must be of architectural interest and have a historical association with events or people and or other historical significance or importance. The listing will cover the exterior and interior of the building and structures that fall within its cartilage. Listed buildings fall into three groups:
- Grade l : Buildings or structures that are classed as being of exceptional interest.
- Grade ll : Buildings or structures are classed as of special interest and as such should attract special effects to preserve them
- Grade ll* : Building or structures that a particularly important and one level up from just of particular interest.
What can be done to a listed building without planning permission?
The Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act of 1990 policy states that any listed building including a Grade Il* listed property, can't be altered, demolished, extended or modified without permission from the local planning authority. However, there are some instances where minor repairs and maintenance are excluded for needing permission.
Can a listed property be renovated or extended?
Alterations to a listed building could be some of the most complex of planning applications. It is difficult, but not impossible. With careful consideration, a sensitive approach can be established that is respectful and appropriate to the host building.
Is listed building consent different to planning permission?
Listed building consent differs from planning permission, but the application process is much the same. You will need both planning permission and listed building consent to carry out works to a building with a listed status.