Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Heritage Architects in London
Heritage Architecture, established in 1948, specialises in the conservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings and environments. With offices in London, Bristol, and Manchester, our practice focuses exclusively on heritage projects, delivering expert surveys, appraisals, and construction solutions tailored to the unique challenges of historic structures. Our team combines deep technical knowledge of traditional construction methods with a holistic approach to preservation, ensuring the integrity and character of each asset are maintained. We work closely with public and private sector clients, offering strategic advice on planning, urban design, and conservation area management. Our reputation is built on decades of experience addressing complex conservation issues, from delicate repairs to large-scale regeneration initiatives.The practice is led by Stephen Levrant, a renowned figure in heritage architecture with a career spanning both public and private sectors. Our multidisciplinary team includes RIBA-accredited conservation architects, IHBC-registered consultants, and specialists in 20th-century architecture and townscape analysis. We prioritise collaboration, combining academic rigor with practical expertise to deliver context-sensitive designs that respect historical significance while meeting contemporary needs. Our work on listed buildings and conservation areas reflects a commitment to preserving cultural heritage for future generations. This dedication is underscored by our involvement in high-profile projects such as the restoration of Liberty London and the phased refurbishment of the Grade II listed Corn Exchange.
Services
Architecture & Surveying
Archaeological Consultancy
Heritage Consultancy
Townscape Consultancy
Appeals
Unauthorised Works
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We offer over 75 years of expertise in heritage architecture and conservation.
- Our team includes RIBA-accredited conservation architects and IHBC-registered consultants.
- We employ a holistic approach to historic building surveys and appraisals.
- Our work spans complex regeneration projects and delicate repairs of listed structures.
- We combine academic research with practical construction solutions for sustainable heritage use.
Services
Heritage Consultancy
Our heritage consultancy provides expert guidance on preserving historic buildings and environments. We specialise in assessing significance, preparing conservation management plans, and advising on planning applications. Our team combines academic expertise with hands-on experience to deliver solutions that balance preservation with modern functionality.
Architecture & Surveying
We offer architectural services focused on the adaptive reuse of listed buildings. Our surveys identify structural needs and historical context, informing designs that respect original craftsmanship while meeting contemporary standards. Projects include detailed condition assessments and phased refurbishment strategies for Grade I and II listed structures.
Townscape Consultancy
This service addresses the conservation of urban landscapes and streetscapes. We conduct area appraisals, assess development impacts, and create management plans for historic town centres. Our work ensures new interventions harmonise with existing architectural character and cultural heritage.
Archaeological Consultancy
Our archaeological consultancy investigates the historical context of sites through archival research and fieldwork. We prepare heritage impact assessments and advise on preserving buried remains during development. This includes evaluating scheduled monuments and rural landscapes for conservation needs.
Appeals
We represent clients in planning appeals concerning historic buildings and conservation areas. Our expertise includes preparing detailed evidence on heritage significance and negotiating with local authorities to achieve outcomes that protect architectural heritage while enabling necessary development.
People
Stephen Levrant
Founder
Stephen Levrant founded the practice in 1948 and has dedicated his career to heritage conservation. He previously worked for English Heritage's precursor and led the Frizzell Partnership before establishing this firm. His expertise spans complex conservation challenges, including legislation, planning, and regeneration projects.
Francesca Cipolla
Practice Director
Francesca Cipolla is a RIBA-accredited conservation architect and Practice Director. She oversees London office operations, manages project bids, and coordinates staff. With expertise in heritage planning, she has led major projects like the Manchester Town Hall restoration and guided the firm's growth since 2013.
Kirsten McKnight
Associate Director
Kirsten McKnight is an IHBC-registered heritage consultant based in Manchester. She specialises in historic environment advice for planning applications and has over 15 years' experience. Current projects include advising Manchester University on asset disposal strategies and working on the Co-op's NOMA estate masterplan.
Vicky Webster
Built Heritage Consultant
Vicky Webster is a qualified Built Heritage Consultant with 14 years' experience. She joined in 2023 after roles at Historic Environment Scotland and Donald Insall Associates. Her expertise includes 20th-century architecture and heritage assessments for public and private clients across the UK.
Maida Kaiser
Senior Associate Architect
Maida Kaiser was a Senior Associate Architect renowned for her expertise in historic building conservation. She led complex restoration projects and mentored junior staff until her passing in 2024. Her legacy includes significant contributions to the practice's approach to preserving architectural heritage.
Questions
What types of projects does Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture specialise in?
We specialise in historic building conservation, including listed buildings, conservation areas, and heritage-led regeneration projects across the UK.
Do you work with both public and private sector clients?
Yes, we provide services to local authorities, government bodies, private developers, and individual property owners.
How do you approach the conservation of Grade I or II listed buildings?
Our approach combines detailed historical research with practical construction solutions to preserve architectural integrity while meeting modern requirements.
Can you assist with planning applications for heritage sites?
Yes, we prepare heritage impact assessments, conservation management plans, and provide expert testimony during planning appeals.
What areas of the UK do you cover?
We operate nationwide with offices in London, Bristol, and Manchester, handling projects from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands.
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