How to Renovate a Listed Building in London: A Step-by-Step Guide
StudioHA’s expert approach to protecting heritage while unlocking modern performance
Renovating a listed building in London is an ambitious, rewarding challenge—but without the right strategy, it can quickly become a minefield of delays, compliance issues and spiralling costs. At StudioHA, we specialise in navigating this complexity with precision. Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting it right the first time.
1. Understand the Listing Grade and Its Implications
Every listed building is different. Grade I and II* buildings are the most protected, while Grade II buildings (the most common in London) still come with strict planning constraints. The listing covers all parts of the building—interior and exterior—even elements you might not expect, like staircases or floorboards.
StudioHA Tip: We start each project by reviewing the list description in detail and consulting local conservation officers early to clarify what’s likely to be accepted.
2. Assemble the Right Team Early
Don’t wait until you’ve bought the building—or worse, submitted planning—before bringing in specialist consultants. You’ll need:
A heritage architect (that’s us)
A planning consultant with conservation experience
Structural and environmental engineers familiar with old buildings
A builder experienced in traditional materials and techniques
Our role as heritage architect is not just design—we also act as strategic lead and client advocate, ensuring proposals are viable and permissions are granted smoothly.
3. Commission a Heritage Statement and Condition Survey
Planning authorities will want detailed justification for any proposed changes. A Conservation Management Plan or Heritage Impact Assessment is often required. We prepare these documents in-house as part of our design process, ensuring they are integrated—not an afterthought.
StudioHA Insight: We combine deep research with beautifully crafted visual documentation to clearly communicate intent to planners—and reassure stakeholders.
4. Develop a Performance-Driven Design Strategy
Listed buildings don’t have to be draughty or inefficient. But upgrades need to be thoughtful. We design high-performance interventions that respect historic fabric—like breathable insulation, secondary glazing, and discreet renewables—so you can enjoy 21st-century comfort without compromising heritage.
5. Navigate Listed Building Consent and Planning Applications
This is where many projects stall. We manage the entire application process, including:
Pre-application meetings
Coordination with conservation officers
Detailed justifications and precedent references
Public consultation where needed
Did you know? It’s a criminal offence to alter a listed building without consent—even for internal works. We make sure you're never exposed to risk.
6. Procure Contractors With the Right Expertise
Once consents are in place, we help you tender to vetted contractors who understand the materials, sequencing, and craftsmanship required for listed refurbishments. We also handle construction-stage design, site inspections and client-side project management.
7. Think Long-Term: Maintenance, Resilience and Value
A successful listed renovation isn't just about aesthetics—it's about longevity. We help our clients think ahead with maintenance plans, robust detailing, and strategies that enhance long-term property value.
Why StudioHA?
We don’t just work on listed buildings—we live and breathe them. Our founder Rachel Hurley brings over a decade of experience delivering heritage-sensitive, high-performance homes across London. Clients come to us when they want clarity, confidence, and a seamless process from start to finish.
Considering a listed renovation?
We offer a tailored feasibility study for listed properties to help you assess potential, identify risks, and move forward with clarity.
→ Enquire now