Architecture · Conservation · Heritage Consultancy
Conservation Architects for Listed Buildings & Historic Sites
The Practice
Michael Swords Studio is a RIBA Chartered architecture practice, based in London and the Lake District. The practice works across a wide range of historic buildings and sensitive sites, including private listed houses, civic and cultural landmarks, ecclesiastical buildings, public-sector heritage assets and discreet private or diplomatic commissions.
We provide conservation-led architectural and strategic heritage advice, grounded in a rigorous understanding of place, material significance, planning policy and contemporary use.
Current commissions include the assessment of over 2,000 listed assets within the Lake District National Park, the inspection and care of approximately 20 churches and chapels, diplomatic properties, and projects involving Grade I, Grade II* and Grade II listed buildings.
We specialise in the careful repair, adaptation, and stewardship of historic buildings. Our work spans churches, castles, civic landmarks, and private heritage assets, with particular expertise in quinquennial inspections, reordering projects, and phased conservation strategies. Each commission is approached with technical rigour and sensitivity, ensuring historic character is preserved.
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We help clients understand the architectural, historical and cultural significance of their buildings, and provide clear, strategic advice on how to adapt and manage change with confidence. Our heritage input ensures decisions are informed, balanced and well-supported. Click below to explore the range of Heritage Consultancy services that we offer.
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We design thoughtful new elements within historic settings, from subtle insertions to confident spatial adaptations. Our work includes extensions and alterations to existing buildings, listed or otherwise, with a focus on clarity, contrast and long-term coherence.
Learn MoreWe regularly undertake a range of condition surveys, including Quinquennial inspections of Churches, Inspections of scheduled monuments, and Condition Surveys of Listed Buildings. We offer Drone surveying as one of our additional services. See a full range of the surveys we offer below.
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We offer insight into Quinquennial inspections, reordering, conservation, and phased interventions for places of worship. Michael is currently appointed as inspecting architect to a number of listed churches, and is on the diocesan list for inspecting architects in Southwark, London, Chichester, Chelmsford and Guildford dioceses.
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We collaborate with skilled craftspeople to deliver small-scale projects rooted in traditional crafts and vernacular skills. From bespoke joinery to lime plasterwork, these collaborations celebrate material integrity, local character and the enduring value of hand-made work.
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Our Work in the Lake District
We are currently appointed by the Lake District National Park Authority to undertake condition surveys of all the listed buildings in the Lake District National Park, including over 2,000 listed buildings, structures and monuments.
Learn MoreWe support clients with listed homes and historic estates, guiding them to adapt, restore, or extend their properties in ways that honour their history and secure their future. Learn more about the services we offer to owners of listed buildings.
Read MoreFrom quinquennial inspections to full reordering projects, we work alongside clergy, PCCs, and fabric committees to deliver sensitive design, guide clients through the faculty process, and provide clear heritage advice. We value the opportunity to use our skills in conservation and design to help communities.
Read MoreWe enjoy collaborating with other architectural design practices and interior designers as heritage consultant or conservation architect, adding value through technical knowledge, report writing, and statutory strategy.
Learn MoreGet in Touch
We welcome enquiries from owners of listed buildings, faith communities, local authorities, and design practices. Please use the form below or email us directly at info@swordsstudio.com.