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CONSERVATION ARCHITECTS
West Sussex, Surrey & Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ's on Conservation Architecture

What is a conservation architect?
A registered, usually a Chartered architect who has acquired a range of additional competences which qualify him/her to practice in the more highly specialised areas of building conservation, in a similar manner to, say medical specialists. Specialisms can include repairing historic buildings, adapting or extending them for new uses, preparing conservation management plans, assessing condition, sourcing specialist materials and conservators, guiding clients in scoping and budgeting for conservation work, assessing the development potential of historic sites, obtaining planning, listed building and conservation area consents and many other activities. Conservation architects should know how to design and specify work in a manner that will preserve the features of the building and site, and avoid devaluing it through inappropriate or harmful measures. (NB it is an offence for an unregistered person to use the title “architect.

How does a member of the public choose a conservation architect? Where does he start?
A. Word of mouth is often a starting point. If you know someone who has had work done or see an example of good work to an historic building, find out who did, contact him/her and the client if possible. The RIBA (www.architecture.com) will advise prospective clients and provide a selection of registered local practices who have indicated that they specialise in the relevant areas of competence. They publish a general guide to selecting an architect which can be downloaded. The Building Conservation Directory (www.buildingconservation.com) is another valuable source.

Do conservation architects specialise in certain building styles or historical periods?
Most can tackle a fairly wide range of building types, styles and periods, but may also specialise or have particular experience in one or more. An architect who is unqualified to tackle a particular problem should refer the client to a colleague with an acknowledged reputation in that area.

Bearing in mind the nature of the work is the conservation architect’s location a significant factor?
It can be if the architect specialises in a particular regional vernacular or geographic region. In a construction contract, a reasonably local practice is likely to be more flexible about visiting the site to inspect work when required. Many practices now have websites that provide an introduction to the range of work and location that they are prepared to undertake.

How does a conservation architect charge for his work?
In common with all architects, charging methods can vary according to the size and complexity of the project. A simple, short-term advisory commission may suit a time-based or lump sum fee, while the fee for a full building commission or design project up to planning permission is more likely to be based on a percentage of the building cost.

How important is the architect’s relationship with councils, heritage interests, National Trust, etc in progressing a project?
Although all projects should be judged on their merits, it can help if an architect has successfully worked in and is known by an authority. English Heritage have a direct interest where works to Grade I or II* listed properties are affected. Many other agencies, such as the Environment Agency, highways, and, where appropriate National Parks may also have a statutory interest. Where statutory bodies such as the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, or local groups must be consulted on an application, the architect may advise and undertake direct approaches to them, or to neighbours, in order to facilitate a positive dialogue for the client.

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email: cap@capstudios.co.uk
URL: http://www.capstudios.co.uk

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