Listed & Period Buildings

Working with the building, not against it

Listed building consent, conservation areas and sensitive extensions to period property across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Listed buildings require special consideration, particularly where the property sits within a conservation area or an area of architectural importance. The local authority and other relevant bodies, including Historic England, take a particularly close interest, and a conservation or historic building officer will review the proposals so the heritage value of the building and its surroundings is protected.

The listing covers the whole building, inside and out, and often structures within its curtilage. Internal alterations that would be unremarkable elsewhere need consent here.

A contemporary addition is frequently easier to justify than a pastiche one, because it reads honestly as a later layer rather than confusing the historic fabric. Our Listed Barn Extensions project in South Norfolk takes exactly that approach.

How a listed building project runs

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Stage 1 — Preparation and Brief

Stage 1 is where we begin to understand your project. We are really interested in your project objectives and if you have a project budget. We often need to have a look at your property and assess the location and context before providing any advice. It’s important at this stage that we can clearly define your Project Brief, including spatial requirements.

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Stage 2 — Concept Design

Stage 2 is where the design of your project really comes to life. Initially, we observe and record project opportunities and constraints onto a Site Analysis drawing. This can include details of; site access, restrictions from neighbouring properties, overlooking, noise, sun-paths, levels, views, security, local planning policies and historic maps etc. This research can make all the difference resulting in a design that makes the most of the site for your needs, and that is favourable in obtaining planning permission. We also record and update your project brief and any project strategies for approval.

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Stage 3 — Spatial Coordination

Stage 3 is where the final concept design is formalised for planning approval or permitted development. The design evolves to include selected specifications and coordination with other consultants is carried out as required. A check review of Building Regulations at this stage ensures the design is compliant and ready to move forwards without significant changes. It’s important to develop and integrate the key features of a project at this stage, including strategies for sustainable design.

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Stage 4 — Technical Design

Stage 4 is when all the technical design for your project is prepared. This includes detailed drawings and specifications for a contractor to price. As lead designer we often recommend any relevant additional Consultant Contacts required at this stage and often help with obtaining quotes for their involvement. If they have not already been appointed, this can include Structural Engineers, M&E Engineers, Interior Designers and Landscape Architects etc. but is dependent on the project. When all required consultants are confirmed, we arrange Design Team Meetings to discuss and develop the Technical Design.

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Stage 5 — Manufacturing and Construction

Stage 5 is the manufacturing and construction stage of your project. Your preferred Contractor leads this stage to deliver your project on-site and your consultants provide support and guidance along the way.

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Stage 6 — Handover

Stage 6 is the Handover for your project. At this stage we can help with the creation of a Building Manual, including the preparation of As-Built Drawings. We like to have a de-brief with the Project Team at this stage to discuss Project Performance and any learnings to take forward.

Period and listed work

Listed & Period Buildings — Frequently Asked Questions

What is listed building consent?

A separate consent from planning permission, needed for works affecting the character of a listed building. Many projects need both. Carrying out works without it is a criminal offence, which is why the appraisal comes first.

Does listing cover the interior?

Yes. Listing applies to the whole building, and frequently to structures within its curtilage as well. Internal alterations that would need no consent elsewhere often need it here.

Can I extend a listed building at all?

Frequently yes, where the addition can be justified against the building's significance. A well-argued contemporary extension is often more acceptable than an imitation of the original.

Who decides?

The local planning authority, advised by its conservation officer, with Historic England consulted on the more significant cases.

Talk to us about your project

Tell us about the site and what you are hoping to do. The first consultation is free, and we will tell you honestly what we think is achievable before you commit to anything.

What's included with Listed & Period Buildings

Heritage appraisal of the building and its setting

Pre-application discussion with the conservation officer

Listed building consent and planning applications

Heritage statement and design justification

Sensitive detailing and specification of materials

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