From the Studio
News, projects and insights from the Designscape team.
Issue 01 | July 2026
EDITORS NOTE
Design is never just about buildings.
Every project presents a different set of challenges, but our objective rarely changes. We aim to create spaces that work well, respect their surroundings and improve the everyday lives of the people who use them.
In this first edition of From the Studio, we share one of our latest planning successes, reflect on what architecture means to us, and look at two planning changes that could influence future development.
FEATURED PROJECT
Re-imagining a Local Landmark
Successful development does not always begin with demolition. Sometimes the most sustainable and commercially sensible solution is to build on what already exists.
Our latest scheme, approved by Dartford Borough Council in February, transforms a former public house near Bluewater into seven contemporary apartments with a new micro-pub.
Although the building has no statutory protection, we consider it an important part of the local streetscape. Rather than demolishing it, we have retained its character through carefully designed side and rear extensions that meet today's housing needs.
With the property market still subdued, our client has chosen to proceed with construction rather than sell with planning consent. This provides flexibility to retain the completed development for rental income or sell individual apartments when market conditions improve.
Good design should always create options.
A DESIGN PERSPECTIVE
What Makes Architecture Different?
People often ask what separates architecture from simply constructing a building. For us, the answer has very little to do with style.
The real question is far simpler. How does a building make people feel? The spaces we inhabit influence our wellbeing every day, and good architecture quietly improves daily life through thoughtful design.
Our work is guided by four enduring principles:
Space
Logical, generous layouts that are enjoyable to move through.
Light
Natural daylight that enhances every space.
Air
Fresh air and effective ventilation that improve comfort.
Nature
A strong relationship with landscape and the natural environment.
These are not design trends. They are the foundations of every project we undertake.
PLANNING UPDATE
Changes Worth Watching
Planning continues to evolve as government seeks to accelerate housing delivery across England. While many of the wider challenges remain, several recent changes are likely to affect developers over the coming months.
Faster Appeals
The streamlined appeals process is now in place. Inspectors will generally determine appeals using the information originally submitted to the local planning authority, rather than considering additional reports or revised evidence at appeal stage.
For applicants, this reinforces the importance of submitting a well-prepared planning application from the outset.
Biodiversity Net Gain
Proposed changes to Biodiversity Net Gain requirements are expected to exempt many sites below 0.2 hectares, provided there is no reasonable likelihood of protected priority species being affected.
Although implementation has been delayed, the changes are expected to come into force later this year.
We support the principles behind Biodiversity Net Gain, but recognise the challenges it has created, particularly for smaller developers delivering much-needed housing.
LOOKING AHEAD
Every project begins with a conversation
Every project begins with a conversation.
Whether restoring an existing building, bringing forward a new development or exploring the potential of a site, thoughtful design starts long before the first drawing is produced.
In future editions of From the Studio, we'll continue to share project updates, planning insights and the ideas that shape our work.