Our planning system has many critics and is frequently seen as barrier to development, by both big business and private homeowners. It is blamed for adding costs, delays and even stopping development altogether. The press, politicians and businesses selling UPVC windows and solar panels like to perpetuate a myth that planning is a problem. If we just simplified, or got rid of planning restrictions, the world would be much better, and we could solve the climate crisis.

Following an established methodology for developing a historic site will improve outcomes from clients and communities and the future of historic buildings.

Work often takes me to the parts of buildings that others would prefer to ignore. Some of the things I see see are annoying and frustrating.! 

If you are trying to get to grips with retrofitting a traditional house, you may have come across the term Hygrothermal Modelling. What is it ? and What do I need to know ?

Understanding the value of heritage is as important as technical conservation and an understanding of traditional materials. Heritage values are often perceived as soft and intangible, this makes them vulnerable and difficult to hold on to when a project comes under pressure from more recognisable project issues such as budgets and ease of construction.

When projects encounter difficulties during the planning stage, it is often as a result of an inability to recognise and engage with the 'soft' heritage values. This gives rise to delays, additional costly redesign work and a great deal of frustration. An understanding of heritage values at an early stage, could reduce or remove many of these barriers and result in a better outcome for all.

Projects can vary in size, from small repairs and alterations to large scale interventions, but in either case commissioning an architect is something the most people are unlikely to do more than once or twice in a life-time.