Heritage Buildings – beauty or burden?!

Chris Dale • December 12, 2024

Heritage Buildings - beauty or burden? 

       Castle Peep, Windsor – Internal Refurbishment within Conservation Area

There aren’t many people who don’t love the charm, character and history of our old buildings. But with their ownership comes responsibility and doing it wrong could be a criminal offence, which we’d like to help you avoid!


Preserving heritage buildings in England is a delicate balance of honouring the past whilst accommodating the needs of the present and future. England’s architectural heritage, symbolised by its Grade I and Grade II listed buildings and Conservation Areas, tells a story of historical, cultural, and artistic significance.


For owners of listed buildings, any changes—be it restoration, renovation, or adaptation—must adhere to stringent guidelines set out to protect their historical value. This is where Architects and Heritage Consultants can play a pivotal role.


We feel very lucky to be based in Windsor which is renowned for its rich heritage and architectural significance. We regularly work with historic buildings – Georgian townhouses, Tudor cottages, Victorian terraces and so on – against a background of planning and legislative constraints which rightly ensures they are protected.



Understanding the Listing System and Conservation Areas


The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 sets out the legal framework for the designation and protection of historic buildings. Listed buildings are graded as follows:


  • Grade I: Buildings of exceptional interest, constituting only 2.5% of listed properties.
  • Grade II*: Particularly important buildings of more than special interest.
  • Grade II: Buildings of special interest, warranting preservation.


Listing covers the entire building, including interiors and sometimes additional features like boundary walls or garden structures. Owners must obtain permission for any alterations that might affect the building's character or even it’s fabric; this might include putting pictures on the walls with nails!


Conservation areas exist to protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place rather than individual building. These are usually applied to an area that contains features that make it unique or distinctive. There are greater restrictions on work you can do within a Conservation Area without planning permission as councils look to preserve character and history.


It is also worth noting that the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and/or Local Plans recognise non-designated heritage assets. These are buildings, monuments, sites or places that are considered important to a local area. Non-designated heritage assets are highlighted by local authorities or neighbourhood forums and are considered with greater rigor within the planning system.



The Architect’s Role in Heritage Preservation


So how can we help? Our role is to carefully balance the needs and desires of our clients against the limitations and requirements of heritage buildings. We hope to ensure that you gain all that you want for the project whilst protecting the history of the building.


1. Navigating the Planning Application Process:


When proposing alterations or repairs to a listed building, the first step is to submit a Listed Building Consent application. Artichoke can help you prepare the application by:


  • Developing Detailed Plans and Justifications: A successful application hinges on detailed documentation. Architects prepare scaled drawings, method statements, and written justifications demonstrating how the proposed works align with heritage preservation principles.
  • Producing a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA): An HIA evaluates the potential impact of proposed works on the building’s significance. It considers historical, architectural, and cultural values, ensuring that alterations respect the building’s character and is justified.
  • Collaborating with Conservation Officers: Local authority conservation officers oversee listed buildings in their jurisdictions. If possible, we will engage with these officers early in the process to discuss plans, gather feedback, and incorporate their recommendations. Depending on the project, this might extend to liaison with Historic England – a public body and a statutory consultee in the planning system.
  • Understanding Local Conservation Area Appraisals: These documents outline the key characteristics and priorities for each conservation area. We will always ensure that the proposed works align with these guidelines.


2. Building Regulations Compliance:


Heritage buildings are exempt from modern standards, such as insulation requirements, though compliance with building regulations is still necessary. Architects play a crucial role in:


  • Balancing Conservation and Compliance: Retrofitting a heritage building for modern use can be challenging, especially when introducing fire safety systems, insulation or accessibility features. We enjoy this creative process and look to provide solutions which meet building regulations without compromising historical integrity.
  • Working with Specialists: we will liaise with several external consultants to ensure the project is successful. Key consultants are:


Structural Engineers (SE) – in all instances, we will seek advice from an SE to determine how best to support the building.


Planning Consultant – if a project is complex then we may seek detailed advice from a planning consultant to ensure that a project is fully compliant in advance of a planning application.


Heritage Consultant – as above, if a project is complex then we may seek detailed advice from a heritage consultant to ensure that the building(s) is preserved in a way that ensures its longevity.


Sustainability Consultants – in many instances, we will seek advice and assessment from a Sustainability Consultant. Each project is unique and so we need to understand which materials are best placed to enhance building performance without compromising the structure.


3. Advising on Appropriate Interventions:


Retrofitting heritage buildings is a critical strategy for achieving the Labour government’s carbon reduction goals. These goals aim to create a net-zero carbon economy by 2050, with the built environment playing a significant role due to its substantial contribution to national emissions – approximately 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions.


Retrofitting involves upgrading existing buildings to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. For heritage buildings, this process is more challenging due to unique construction methods. At Artichoke, we understand these challenges and can advise our clients on appropriate methods for integrating energy-efficient measures such as renewable energy sources. We can also help develop strategies to upgrade building performance without impacting the buildings heritage or longevity such as internal insulation systems that maintain the building’s natural breathability.


Case Studies: See some of the successful heritage projects below which have delighted our clients and have been incredibly rewarding to be a part of:

Church Farm, Surrey – Contemporary Residential Extension to Grade II Listed Building

A 17th century house which was originally part of Lord Lucan’s estate. It has a modern kitchen, dining and family space with a perfect balance of harmony and contrast providing a beautiful bright space to the delight of our clients. 

The Weir Cottage, Maidenhead – Refurbishment and Extension within Conservation Area

An old coach house, originally around 1/3rd of the size of what it was when we were involved. Unfortunately, it had previously been extended without much thought, so Artichoke had to be very creative to produce the bright open spaces the client needed whilst respecting the character and fabric of the house. Again, delighted clients and wonderful outcome. 

Castle Peep, Windsor – Internal Refurbishment within Conservation Area

Very much like Weir Cottage, but in this case, there were no extensions and all the magic happened within the existing house. Even so, a truly dramatic and incredible transformation! 

Manor Farm, Laleham – Refurbishment of Grade II Listed Buildings within Conservation Area

A charming heritage farmstead in the works. Artichoke is proposing the restoration of the house and barns, sensitively designed modern additions and a set of commercial units that blend into the context to ensure the longevity of the site.


Preserving England’s heritage buildings while adapting them for a sustainable future is a challenge that requires vision, expertise, and collaboration. Artichoke is equipped to guide clients through this process by ensuring compliance whilst achieving great design and functionality.


By embracing innovative solutions, Artichoke can help clients transform heritage buildings into energy-efficient spaces, demonstrating that conservation and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. For any heritage building owner, engaging a skilled architect is an essential step toward achieving these objectives.



We have a high-level service called ‘Conservation Kickstarter’ which might help you to get started if you’re not sure how or where to start. Please do get in touch if you’d like to chat more! We’d love to hear from you.

A Guest Blog with Mark Taylor Design

By Chris Dale • September 3, 2025
1. Tell us a little about Mark Taylor Design — how did it start, and what defines your approach to bespoke interiors and kitchens? Mark Taylor Design was set up 29 years ago. I was trained in both furniture production and management and was also a keen designer. I had completed an MBA and wanted to apply all these skills to build a business, doing something I loved. I have always believed that you can design beautiful furniture and rooms without imposing a specific ‘look’. The company has built its reputation on listening to the ideas and desires of clients. We then help to steer their vision through space design, interior expertise and craft skills. What people have at the end of their design and build journey is their vision made beautiful – rather than ours. 2. What makes a truly successful kitchen or interior design in your view — and how do you balance aesthetics with day-to-day functionality? There is nothing quite like the beauty of bespoke. Having something created to your specifications is arguably the epitome of modern luxury. Bespoke is most commonly used to refer to hand-made suits and shoes. Now the concept has become much more sought after within the world of interiors and design – with bespoke kitchens leading the way. And it’s not too hard to understand why. Bespoke means not having to compromise - getting exactly what you want and how you want it. It also allows you to unleash your imagination and embrace your creativity. The end result is a room that is crafted, in every way, to embrace your lifestyle and personal taste. Importantly, by incorporating some elements of bespoke furniture into a custom made kitchen it’s possible to give people a unique room without breaking the bank. This could be a bespoke island or dresser for instance. By combining bespoke and custom made you can optimise the space so that the end result flows smoothly and looks amazing too. 3. How do you typically collaborate with architects on a project? What makes those relationships work well? Collaboration early on always helps. We ask architects not only about style and budget but also about the client’s favoured ways of working. Ideally, we like to meet the clients with the architect from the outset. Where this isn’t possible, we at least aim for a walk round the space or a chat through all the plans – even for the areas we might not be designing for, as this gives us a more comprehensive understanding of the clients’ vision.

The Architecture of Relaxation: Designing Spaces That Feel Like a Holiday

By Chris Dale • August 19, 2025
It’s summer holiday season — and as clients return from coastal cottages, mountain cabins, or sun-drenched villas, one theme keeps coming up: “How can I bring this feeling home?” That sense of ease, simplicity, and quiet joy isn’t just about being away—it’s about how those spaces are designed. At Artichoke: Architectural Consultancy, we help clients capture that same serenity in their everyday environments, with thoughtful design that’s tailored to how they live. Restful spaces aren’t created by chance. They’re the result of purposeful decisions—about layout, light, flow, and function. And often, it’s the small, well-considered changes that make the biggest difference. With decades of experience navigating UK planning, building regulations, and complex design briefs, we know how to deliver spaces that feel effortless, yet are deeply intentional. A calming home doesn’t need to be minimalist or expensive—it needs to be clear. That might mean reconfiguring a hallway to reduce visual clutter, introducing built-in storage to keep surfaces free, or designing a garden connection that invites you to step outside. These aren’t grand gestures—they’re subtle shifts that support a more peaceful way of living. Previously, on projects such as Halfacre (pictured below) we have found that storage, in particular, plays a quiet but very powerful role. When clutter is tucked away with care, rooms feel lighter, more spacious, and more welcoming. We design storage that’s integrated, intuitive, and tailored to your lifestyle — so your home supports simplicity without sacrificing function.

Should we save or borrow for our extension?

By Chris Dale • July 16, 2025
Like many, I am generally a saver rather than a borrower by default. A client recently told us that they planned to delay their project, so that they could save the additional money they needed to be able to do the extension that they really wanted, rather than compromising. Wisely they had asked us to carry out a costing exercise, so they knew this and could assess the situation and plan for it. In that instance they had £75,000 and needed save roughly another £25,000 to do what they wanted to do, which they thought they might be able to do over the course of 3-4 years. Their question was actually when they should resume the process, which we answered and I suggested that they give themselves a year to be comfortable to get planning, building regulations and find themselves a builder (it’s always better to allow more time than less!). However, it occurred to me that whilst saving rather than borrowing (in my mind at least) is an admirable and patient approach, it made me wonder what other factors should be considered.

How good advice can pay for itself...and then some

By Chris Dale • June 17, 2025
When you're planning a new build, a renovation, or a quirky conversion project you've been dreaming about, there’s one aspect that might not make your heart race like the design itself—VAT. Yes, VAT might sound as thrilling as watching paint dry, but believe me, getting it right can make a significant difference to your overall budget. So, why should you care about VAT? At Artichoke, we are not just here to design good architecture — we are also here to ensure everything from design to delivery is as smart and cost-effective as possible. In some cases, VAT is a hidden savings opportunity. By understanding exactly how VAT applies to each part of your project, we might be able to help make sure you put your money into the right places on a project. And with a trusted team of consultants, including a Quantity Surveyor and a VAT specialist, we'll be well-equipped to secure savings that might just cover all our fees (and perhaps even fund that bit extra for those quirky design touches our clients love). Let’s take a quick look at some common VAT opportunities: • New Build Dwellings – 0% VAT (Zero-rated): When you're constructing a completely new residential home—even if we keep a few charming features like the façade or party walls intact—the project could qualify for a zero VAT rate. • Renovation of Empty Homes – 5% VAT (Reduced rate): If your property has been unoccupied for at least two years before the work starts, the renovation might be eligible for a reduced 5% VAT rate. • Conversions – 5% VAT (Reduced rate): Turning one home into two (or the other way around) or converting a non-residential building (say, an old office or barn) into a cosy home can also save you a bit on VAT. • Energy-Saving Materials – 0% or 5% VAT: Thanks to recent UK legislation, most energy-saving improvements like insulation, heat pumps, or solar panels installed in a residential setting usually attract a 0% VAT rate—though sometimes it might be 5% depending on specifics. • Adaptations for Disabled Persons – 0% VAT (Zero-rated): Any modifications made to help a disabled person can make the VAT bill disappear entirely (well, not actually vanish, but zero-rated, which is just as good). • For Businesses and Developers: If you're VAT-registered—whether as a business or developer—you might reclaim VAT on various building works and professional services (yours truly, the architect, included!). • Grant Schemes and Self-Builds: There are also a couple of schemes out there where, either through grants or self-build VAT reclaims, you could see even more savings—sometimes effectively reducing your VAT cost to zero.

Guest Blog: What makes a Great Architect (& why it matters for your family home)

By Chris Dale • May 20, 2025
 Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of working with many architects on residential projects across Windsor and beyond. Some collaborations stand out — not just for the results, but for the journey we take together with the architect and the client. And if there's one thing we've learned, it's this: the quality of your architect doesn't just affect drawings and design. It shapes your entire experience as a homeowner. So, what makes an architect good to work with? And why should it matter to you as a residential client? Here’s our take — drawing on decades of experience and a particularly valued partnership with the team at Artichoke . 1. Clear, Considered Design That Works in the Real World It’s easy to be wowed by a glossy design on paper — but the real test is how well that design comes together on site. The best architects don’t just create something that looks good in a portfolio. They design spaces that feel right , work well , and reflect how families actually live . Artichoke are a great example. Their designs are not only amazing — they’re deeply thoughtful. We’ve had clients pause during site visits to comment on how right the proportions feel, how naturally the light falls, and how every part of the layout seems to anticipate their daily routine. It makes our job as builders a pleasure — and it gives families a home that genuinely enhances their day-to-day life. 2. Drawings That Speak for Themselves Nothing slows down a site — or adds hidden costs — like unclear drawings. The best architects give us the clarity we need to keep things moving smoothly, safely, and accurately. One of the things we value most about working with Artichoke is the clarity and completeness of their drawings . From structural details to finishes, everything is laid out with care and precision. That means fewer questions for the client, fewer delays on site, and far less risk of costly misinterpretation. When drawings are this clear, you don’t have to keep ringing your architect or making decisions under pressure — it’s all been thought through ahead of time. 3. A Relationship Built on Trust and Communication A long-standing working relationship between builder and architect is something no client can buy — but they benefit from it immensely. We’ve worked with Artichoke on numerous projects over the years, and that mutual trust makes a huge difference. Communication is quick, problems get solved collaboratively, and we’re always pulling in the same direction. That means less stress for clients and a more enjoyable build all round. It also allows us to head off potential issues before they arise — because we know how they work, and they know how we build. More Benefits for Homeowners: Why the Right Architect Pays Off When you choose a good architect — like the team at Artichoke — you're not just buying a design. You're investing in: Peace of mind. You’re not being constantly bombarded with decisions or left to second-guess site details. Efficient timelines. Fewer revisions, clearer drawings, and smoother communication mean your project stays on track. Cost control. Good drawings reduce site errors — and that helps protect your budget. Better long-term value. Thoughtful design means your home will stand the test of time — functionally and aesthetically. In Summary A good architect isn’t just a creative mind — they’re a cornerstone of a successful build. As builders, we love working with architects who respect the realities of site work while pushing for the best possible outcomes for the client. That’s exactly what we get with Artichoke . Great design. Clear documentation. Easy, honest collaboration. And most importantly, happy homeowners at the end of it all. If you’re planning a residential project — especially one that’s going to be a long-term family home — choosing the right architect is just as important as choosing the right builder. Choose wisely, and the process can be as rewarding as the result. So please do get in touch if you’d like to speak to The King Brothers or Artichoke, who would love to discuss your ideas and questions with you. http://www.thekingbrothers.co.uk/

Butterflies, Brickwork & Biodiversity: Why Building in Windsor Just Got More Interesting

By Chris Dale • April 23, 2025
If you’ve ever tried to extend your kitchen in Windsor and been met with more red tape than a royal ribbon-cutting, you’ll know this area isn’t exactly straightforward when it comes to building projects. Listed buildings, conservation areas, green belt, flood plains—and now, just to keep us all on our toes— biodiversity net gain . Yes, that’s right. The butterflies are now part of the planning process. And we’re absolutely here for it. We’re a small, design-obsessed architectural practice in Windsor, and we love a challenge. If your project comes with layers of complexity, maybe a 300-year-old wall or a site that’s prone to the odd flood, then you’re speaking our language. We’ve spent years navigating the quirks of this patch of Berkshire, and we know how to make the tricky stuff feel like the exciting stuff. So if you’re thinking of building, extending or reimagining your home (or even your business), let’s talk about why now is actually a brilliant time to get going—and how the new planning rules might just be the thing that pushes your project from good to gorgeous. What on earth is Biodiversity Net Gain? Let’s start with the buzzword: Biodiversity Net Gain , or BNG to those in the know. As of 2024, new developments in England (yes, even the small ones!) have to leave the natural environment in a better state than it was before. In simple terms, if you knock down a shed and build a garden office, you might also need to give something back to nature—think wildflower beds, hedgehog highways, green roofs, bird boxes, ponds… that kind of thing. And the aim is not just to replace what was lost, but to increase biodiversity by at least 10%. The government has officially asked us all to get a little greener—and in a town as leafy and heritage-laden as Windsor, that’s actually a lovely thing. What does that mean for your dream extension? Well, don’t panic. You’re not going to have to turn your back garden into a nature reserve. But it does mean the design process now includes a bit more imagination and a lot more collaboration with nature. For us, it’s like being handed a new palette of materials—only this time the materials are living, breathing, and occasionally fluttering. We might be talking about: Planting native species in your landscaping (the kind the bees actually like) Installing green roofs that soak up rain and look brilliant from above Creating little corridors for wildlife to move through (so the hedgehogs can get to their Friday night pub, presumably) Using permeable surfaces to reduce flood risk while still looking sharp It’s a challenge, yes. But it’s also an opportunity to make every project that bit more thoughtful—and beautiful. Why this is actually good news for Windsor Let’s be honest—this area is full of hoops to jump through when it comes to planning. But BNG actually fits in quite nicely with the way we already work. Here’s why: We already love working with heritage – Listed buildings don’t scare us. We know how to celebrate old features while sneaking in modern comforts and wow-factor spaces. We’ve got the green stuff down – With years of experience building in the green belt and flood-prone zones, we’re no strangers to weaving nature into the design. We believe in better – Whether it’s your forever home or your first leap onto the property ladder, we think good design should improve everything it touches: the lives inside the building, the neighbourhood it sits in, and now—the environment too. And let’s not forget—Windsor is special. We’ve got a town full of character, history, and people who genuinely care about where they live. So making things just a little bit wilder, greener, and more alive? It feels like exactly the right direction. But isn’t this going to make things harder? Well… maybe a little. You will need to work with someone who understands the new rules and can guide you through them without the process feeling like an uphill battle with a clipboard-wielding bureaucrat. But here’s the thing—we’re already doing this. We’re already weaving these ideas into our designs, already chatting to ecologists and planners, already sketching up ways to turn “requirements” into design features you’ll actually love. Think: a living wall on your new garden room, or a hidden bin store that doubles as a bug hotel. (Yes, that’s a thing. And yes, it can look great.) So… what kind of projects are we excited about? If you’ve got a listed cottage in a conservation area that needs a contemporary extension—let’s talk. If you’ve got a patch of green belt and a wild dream of a modern eco home—call us. If you’re a local business owner looking to build something bold but sensitive to its surroundings—we’re in. And if you’re just not sure where to begin, but you know you want a team who cares about getting it right—not just for the planners, but for the people and the planet—we’d love to help. Final thoughts (and an open invitation) Building in Windsor isn’t always straightforward, but that’s what makes it brilliant. There’s a richness to the fabric here—a layered history, a complex geography, a deep connection to landscape and place. And now, there’s a renewed call to design in harmony with the natural world. If that sounds like your cup of tea (preferably sipped in a light-filled extension overlooking a wildflower garden), then let’s chat. We’re here to help you navigate the quirks, embrace the challenges, and create something truly special. And who knows? You might even make a hedgehog happy in the process. Get in touch  We're a friendly bunch, and we’d love to hear what you’re planning. Whether it’s a single-storey extension, a new home, or something totally unexpected—we’re all ears. And sketchbooks. And strong tea.