CAN YOU BE MODERN IN A CONSERVATION AREA?

People often assume that if a project is located within a conservation area, contemporary design will not be permitted. This is not the case.

If you live in a property with historical or architectural significance, it is important to ensure that any refurbishment respects its original character. Your design decisions should complement or enhance the building’s existing features rather than compete with them. However, this does not mean resorting to imitation; there are many ways to achieve balance without producing a pastiche.

For example, you can introduce hierarchy in the composition and massing of volumes, while selecting materials, finishes, and detailing that relate sensitively to the context.

Before carrying out any works, you will need to seek formal consent to ensure that your proposal preserves the heritage value for future generations. Within this framework, there are still many opportunities to approach the design creatively and express a contemporary architectural language.

As always, have a look in your council's website and read through the guidance if you are wondering "Can you make modern interventions in conservation areas?" and if in doubt consider a pre application.