DESIGN STUDIO

From historic country estates to iconic London squares and mews gardens, our design studio focuses on a small selection of projects each year which allows us to bring the very best solutions and recommendations to each site we work on.

Julia has an unusual background in history, horticulture, finance and design and has worked on all aspects of historical landscapes including urban regeneration, impact studies, conservation management plans and landscape design.

Her wealth of experience enables her to navigate the complexities of historical conservation as well as recommend sensitive and aesthetic design solutions.

Our studio's approach is collaborative, methodical and pragmatic. We seek ways to enhance the sense of place and conserve the historical significance of the site as well as innovate practical solutions so that they can flourish in their legacy and enjoyment.

Our services include:

1. Assessment and Research

Identifying the historical, architectural and cultural value of the site and drafting Statements of Significance.
Evaluating the impact of proposed developmentson the landscape through Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA).
Mapping and analysing the historical development of a broader landscape and advising on Historic Landscape Characterisation (HLC).
In conjuction with various specialist consultants, undetaking Condition Surveys which record the current state of heritage assets, such as planting, follies and historic walls.
Researching historical maps, archives, and archaeological records for early-stage planning.

2. Strategic Planning and Management

Creating and preparing long-term strategies to balance preservation with modern use by developing Conservation Management Plans (CMP).
Helping private individuals & organisations develop commercial strategies to secure funding from bodies like the National Lottery Heritage Fund and through self-generated revenue schemes.
Analysing the visual effect of new structures on historic views and townscapes through Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIA).
Advising on grant sourcing and assistance with funding applications to Historic England or local authorities and as part of multi-disciplinary specialist teams we are also able to advise on certain aspects for Scheduled Monument & Listed Building Consent and applications for protected sites.

3. Design and Restoration

We design conservation-sensitive plans and planting which focus on context and sustainabilty.
We develop restoration overlays and can design and recommend substitutes for lost landscape features such from herbaceous borders, rockwork, garden buildings and ornamentation.
We consult on Interpretation Planning which includes designing signange, maps and plans which explain a site's history to the public.

4. Specialist Advisory

We can act as Subject Matter Specialists and Expert Witness Services and provide evidence for planning appeals and public inquiries..