Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architects for Historic & Contemporary Design
Established in 1945 by renowned Conservation Architect Anthony Swaine, our practice has built a long-standing reputation for excellence in traditional and classical architectural design. We specialise in historic building conservation, traditional joinery detailing, oak-framed construction, and urban design within historic contexts, operating from a unique office location within Canterbury's medieval city walls. Our team of seven professionals, led by Directors David Stere and Clive Bowley, combines over 50 years of collective experience in architectural and conservation fields. We pride ourselves on producing high-quality planning designs, historic detailing, and construction drawings that ensure the integrity of both traditional and contemporary projects. Our services span from concept planning to on-site construction oversight, serving private clients, developers, and local government bodies.While our expertise lies in historic buildings, we apply the same meticulous attention to detail in modern design projects. Our heritage consultancy includes Historic Building Reports, Conservation Plans, and Heritage Impact Assessments that demonstrate our deep understanding of traditional construction methods. We believe in preserving the character of historic settlements while embracing contemporary approaches where appropriate, creating interventions that respect both past craftsmanship and modern needs. Our location within Canterbury's historic bastion tower serves as a daily reminder of our commitment to architectural heritage. We maintain transparency in our processes and prioritise clear communication with all stakeholders involved in our projects.
Services
Historic Building Reports
Conservation Plans
Heritage Impact Assessments
Urban Design
Traditional Joinery Detailing
Oak Framed Construction
Building Repair
Contemporary Design
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in architectural conservation
- Our team includes IHBC-accredited professionals
- We produce detailed planning and construction drawings
- We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design solutions
- Our office operates from a historic Canterbury bastion tower
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Historic Building Conservation
Services
Historic Building Reports
We produce comprehensive historic building reports that document architectural significance and condition. Our reports follow rigorous conservation standards and include detailed analysis of construction methods and materials. These documents serve as essential references for preservation and restoration projects.
Conservation Plans
Our conservation plans provide strategic frameworks for managing historic properties. They balance preservation requirements with practical needs, offering phased approaches to maintenance and adaptation. Each plan considers historical context and future sustainability requirements.
Heritage Impact Assessments
We conduct detailed heritage impact assessments for proposed developments affecting historic environments. Our evaluations consider visual, physical, and contextual impacts while providing mitigation strategies. These assessments meet current planning policy requirements for listed buildings and conservation areas.
Traditional Joinery Detailing
Our specialists create precise joinery details for historic and new-build projects. We maintain traditional techniques while incorporating modern performance standards. This service ensures authentic craftsmanship in timber structures and architectural elements.
Oak Framed Construction
We design and oversee oak framed construction projects using traditional methods. Our approach combines historic building techniques with contemporary engineering requirements. Each project receives custom detailing to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic quality.
People
David Stere
Director
Qualified architect with 20 years' experience at the practice. Specialises in construction processes, project management and 3D visualisation. Oversees technical aspects of architectural design and implementation.
Clive Bowley
Director
IHBC-accredited conservation expert with 30 years' experience. Former Principal Conservation Officer at Canterbury City Council. Specialises in traditional architectural detailing and heritage consultancy services for complex historic projects.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialise in?
We specialise in traditional and classical architectural design while also handling contemporary projects. Our expertise particularly focuses on historic building conservation and traditional construction methods.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings and historic structures. Our team provides appropriate conservation solutions that meet statutory requirements while addressing modern functional needs.
What areas do you cover?
While based in Canterbury, we work across Kent and accept select projects beyond the region. Our heritage consultancy services often involve working with historic buildings throughout southeast England.
Can you help with planning applications?
Yes, we provide comprehensive planning support including heritage statements, impact assessments, and detailed drawings that address conservation requirements for planning submissions.
What is your design philosophy?
We respect historic character while embracing appropriate modern interventions. Our approach balances preservation with functional adaptation, ensuring new work complements existing structures in both design and craftsmanship.
