Our task was to explore the feasibility of converting the house into a residential care scheme — one that could accommodate multiple self-contained apartments for private sale or lease, while retaining the character that had made it such a loved family home. It was a delicate balance: maximising the potential of the site without overwhelming it, and enhancing the street without burdening it with bulky, ill-considered massing.

We began with careful studies of the plan — testing layouts, unit sizes, and the interplay between bedrooms, living spaces and shared amenity. Circulation quickly became a key focus: creating generous, accessible common areas that supported ease of movement for older residents, and ensuring the building would be enjoyable to live in, not just functional on paper.

Just as important were the outward-facing elements — parking, landscaping, and how the building would sit within the site and the wider neighbourhood. We wanted the scheme to feel integrated, not imposed; like a natural evolution of a well-loved home.

The result was a design that Lisa felt truly proud of — a scheme that honoured her past while embracing a new purpose. Following our work, she was able to take the project to a local developer, who purchased the site subject to planning, recognising the strength and clarity of the vision.

For us, this was more than just a feasibility study. It was a reminder of how buildings can be reimagined with care, sensitivity and purpose — offering something back to the community while still respecting what came before.