Due to start on site in 2019, we achieved planning permission for these eight houses within the Greenbelt. The site was most recently the Thai Fusion restaurant, but with the owner looking to move on we were asked to look at the development potential of the site.
Following pre-application discussions we submitted a full planning application for two blocks of terraced houses and associated car park. These compact houses achieve three-bedrooms by creating a room in the loft space of a rear gable. It is the intention to make use of sustainable modern methods of construction when building these properties and install low-carbon technologies.
We achieved planning permission for extending and refurbishing this former manse in Sale to include two premium duplex apartments at ground floor.
Originally converted into flats in the 1970s, the building had become tired and dated. Our proposal included a large three storey extension to the rear, the demolition of a garage block and bringing into residential use the basement which was being used for storage. The results form two additional apartments and increased off-street parking provision.
The second floor apartments utilise the quirky roof shapes, making use of high vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and large windows to maximize the light. The basement storey was adapted with new external lightwells serving new bedrooms which link to the ground floor apartments creating two large duplex units.
The brief was to refurbish an ageing barn on the charity’s site in Stretford to create a better facility with more capacity for their cat-rehoming centre. This would greatly improve their ability to take in abandoned animals and house them in a much improved environment.
Our involvement started after planning permission was granted and we were tasked with design development up to construction. Insulated render and panelling systems were specified to re-clad the existing steel structure to form a clean, comfortable and dry enclosure with new UPVC pens, many of which have outside windows affording the feline residents a view out and to watch the world go by!
The second phase includes the refurbishment of the original cat re-homing centre to convert it into boarding accommodation. This will re-purpose the old building and provide a much needed revenue stream for the charity.
We were commissioned by the new owner of this property in Altrincham town centre to prepare feasibility schemes for splitting the first floor office accommodation into two apartments. This included verifying whether a second floor of residential accommodation could be inserted at roof level. Working closely with the client a finalised scheme was quickly agreed and a full planning application submitted. The scheme provides a pair of two bedroom, two bathroom apartments with the main living space taking advantage of the Railway Street to the front aspect whilst bedroom accommodation is to the rear. Access to the apartments is from Lloyd Square and this area will soon benefit from proximity to the mixed use Regent Road development so it was important that the materials and workmanship throughout were befitting of this location.
As the property is located in the Railway Street Conservation Area of Altrincham a combined Heritage and Design and Access Statement supported the planning application. Since receiving planning permission we have worked closely with the client to discharge all the planning conditions and a Building Regulations application has been made. This included the preparation of a full set of detailed drawings including a fire strategy and room by room specifications. The scheme is now complete and being marketed for rent.
Have a look at the ‘Before’ photographs in the gallery to really appreciate the level of transformation and the potential which has been realised.
The practice was appointed by a private client to undertake the extension and refurbishment of this 17th Century cottage within the High Weald Area of Outstanding National Beauty, East Sussex.
The design solution allows the existing character of the half-timbered and brickwork original building to be enhanced by a new two storey extension using a modern SIP system clad in reclaimed materials. The fabric of the building has been enhanced to form a more sustainable dwelling in keeping with the requirements of a modern family.
Kitson Architecture were appointed to undertake a full review of this Grade II* character hotel to increase bedroom numbers, improve business and conference facilities, provide inclusive access, expand spa facilities and address servicing issues.
Working closely with the client and their representatives a phased plan was developed to address all of the above issues in a manner which would allow the operation of the hotel to continue throughout the process.
Following a design process covering refurbishment and new build elements complementing the existing architectural style, successful planning and listed building applications have been achieved providing:
An unbuilt concept for a small infill site.
To meet the odd shape whilst maintaining privacy and amenity to neighbours, we proposed a part sunken dwelling with a split level front leading to a ground level open-plan living area with plenty of light.
We undertook a design feasibility study for a large conference facility to convert a former boilerhouse into a fitness centre for visiting delegates. A new link corridor was proposed from the reception area with a change in level dealt with by a new stair and platform lift. The remaining bolierhouse plant was contained within a separate room leaving the rest of the space available for gym equipment and changing rooms along with an adjoining studio space.
We achieved planning permission for the redevelopment of this site in Sale from business use to three, four-bedroom terraced houses.
The design incorporates contemporary styling with traditional proportions well-suited to the character of the area. Use of the loft space creates a master suite with dressing room with three good sized bedrooms at first floor. A single storey element to the rear creates a large open-plan kitchen dining area well suited to modern family living.
The project is a Gustav Bonnier Development and completed in 2021.
We were asked by the business owner to submit an Outline Planning application to allow redevelopment of this industrial site to provide new homes. Approval was granted in Summer 2017. As the surrounding area is predominantly residential the challenge was to maximise the development potential of the site, providing quality family accommodation, without impeding on the privacy of the existing neighbours.
After successfully completing the refurbishment of The Grand 22 in Lytham St. Annes we were appointed by the client to assist with the redevelopment of their sister hotel in The Lake District. The brief was to prepare a scheme for the complete refurbishment of The Lodge at The Grand at Grasmere. Set apart from the main hotel the lodge benefits from unrivalled views of the surrounding fells as well as direct access to the tastefully landscaped hotel grounds. Following a complete survey of the existing facilities various layouts were prepared to optimise the internal accommodation and the associated external spaces. An extensive refurbishment programme followed. The Lodge now houses eight luxurious and stylish refurbished bedrooms of which many benefit from their own private sun terrace and direct access to the gardens. The Lodge complements the stylish main hotel building, just a short walk away, where the reception, lounge, restaurant and popular boot room are all located.
This family wanted to modernise their home with a new open-plan living area created by extending to the rear, and creating a new bedroom above the existing garage.
The before photographs show the narrow and cramped spaces which did not suit the way the residents used their home.
The result is a contemporary interior with a large multi-purpose room allowing the family to spend more quality time together.
When the owner of this site in Partington decided to retire, we were asked to undertake an Outline Planning Application to develop as a small housing scheme. We worked with the client in exploring the various options and took forward the option for small two and three bedroom houses.
Consisting formerly of a detached dwelling with an adjacent workshop and storage buildings, we were successful in attaining planning approval for eight semi-detached homes.
Following a successful sale, we continued to work on the scheme for the developer Harvey & Rowland, achieving approval of Reserved matters.
KITSON Architecture continued a long standing relationship with QHotels with the refurbishment of the Midland Hotel’s leisure club to form this new, multi award winning luxury spa for this prestigious hotel in Manchester city centre.
Working closely with interior designers Curveline Design we have created a truly luxurious city centre spa. The original elements of the listed building’s interior have been sympathetically incorporated and fully refurbished with spaces opened up to reveal the generous volumes and the ornate ceilings lost for many years.
The Spa at the Midland includes a suite of opulent treatment rooms, rasul, salt-infused steam room and Himalayan rock salt sauna. The relaxation area incorporates suspended cocoon chairs, sleep pods and semi-private seating areas with private relax niches. The room features a spectacular stacked glass wall feature to enhance the feeling of calm.
To complete the transformation a new exclusive gym facility has been built along with full refurbishments of the swimming pool and changing rooms. The original street entrance has been carefully reinstated to form a fitting entrance to Manchester’s finest Spa.
KITSON Architecture have been involved in the refurbishment of this shopping centre in Dartford, Kent, since 2013. On completion the refurbishment scheme was shortlisted for a 2016 BCSC (Revo) award.
Starting with a complete mall refurbishment and new public entrances and culminating in the conversion of the former Waitrose supermarket into an Aldi and Poundworld, this centre has been transformed into a popular and contemporary town centre retail destination.
We worked closely with lighting designers Studio 29 to create stunning new lighting features including motion-sensitive colour-changing floor lights and a backlit frieze featuring specially commissioned artwork.
New entrances to the centre from the high street and car park have completely transformed the appearance of the centre and incorporates new branding developed in tandem with the refurbishment. As part of the overhaul the public toilets were relocated and a new management suite formed.
We are continuing our involvement with the client into looking at future projects which may enhance the quality and value of the centre.
Most recently we have assisted Leonardo Hotels with a comprehensive refurbishment of the Midland Hotel’s public areas at ground floor, though Mark Kitson’s experience with this building spans four decades. Over the years, working with different owners, we have been involved in ongoing maintenance and renewal of this prestigious Grade II* listed building in Manchester city centre.
Opened in 2020, the new concept of the lobby by interior designers Sundara Design was to create a bustling meeting place inspired by the original winter garden which occupied this space. The restaurant was refurbished to evoke memories of the railway heritage of the hotel and is styled in traditional materials.
In 2013, KITSON Architecture were appointed to assist the interior designers, Style Contracts, and the design team to obtain Listed Building consent for the refurbishment of a key restaurant space within the Midland Hotel, formerly the Colony Restaurant and now Mr Cooper’s. Our role was to manage the planning and listed building consent issues utilising our experience of working on this prestigious building for many years. This successful city centre venue was featured in the Condé Nast Traveller magazine Gold Standard 2015 list as one of their all-time favourite Cocktail Bars from around the world.
In 2008, After recognising the need for additional pre-function space for the main Alexandra Suite at the Midland Hotel, Mark was instructed to undertake a review of all the available back of house spaces to identify potential refurbishment options. A scheme was submitted to convert a back bar beer store into a new pre-function bar and break out function suite. The new suite provides a separate bar area along with a new designated street entrance which enhances the potential for the use of the main function room as a standalone resource.
In 2006, Mark Kitson was the Project Architect and Project Manager on a £13m project which involved the full refurbishment of the 312 bedrooms and all public areas. The building operation was fully reviewed at an early stage with nine additional bedrooms and a potential bar space identified and included within the project creating new revenue streams for the hotel. As lead designer of a team including two interior designers, services and structural engineers, hotel staff and client, Mark undertook the complex coordination of the phasing of works to ensure the hotel remained trading throughout with minimal disruption.
Other projects at this hotel include the French Restaurant and the Spa at the Midland.
Following a considered design process and extensive consultation with the planning department, we are delighted to have been granted planning permission for this small residential development in Wilmslow.
Currently an unused 1960s block of garages behind Lindow Parade, the client asked us to look at options for developing the site. The proposal two split-level homes gave the best balance of quality accommodation whilst keeping within the various planning constraints. Whilst it has the appearance of typical two-storey semi-detached homes from the front, the rear half of the property drops by half a storey to allow a spacious loft bedroom in the roof space and provide separation between the kitchen and living areas.
As part of the ongoing fit out of this Data Centre facility for Vodafone, KITSON Architecture have completed the refurbishment of the main reception to the building. Working within the strict security parameters, which require 24 operation, the reception has been designed to provide a welcoming yet controlled access to the site. The bespoke Corian desk with integral colour change lighting provides a stylish first impression. The bold colours of the furniture complement the simplicity of the décor and colour-change wall light features provide eye-catching highlights.
KITSON Architecture were appointed in 2013 to assist with the roll out of the works associated with the upgrade and expansion of the Vodafone Core Optical Network programme with 10 sites located across the United Kingdom from Inverness to Essex.
The works included initial site surveys of the existing units, production of layout schemes then development to tender stage for a Design and Build contract.
These sites form a key element of Vodafone’s telecommunications network, with facilities needing to be upgraded quickly in key locations. With the specialist nature of these sites, obtaining planning permission required careful consideration of planning policy and a robust dialogue with planning officers.
Awarded a BCSC Gold Award in 2014 for Refurbishment (under £5m) and in April 2015 shortlisted for an RICS Renaissance Award in the Commercial category.
Mark Kitson has been involved in the Newton Aycliffe Refurbishment Masterplan for many years including working on all the previous construction phases.
KITSON Architecture was appointed in early 2013 to deliver the next phase of the multimillion pound masterplan, transforming the retail centre of this 1950s new town. The scheme includes the opening up of the shopping street by removing large pedestrian ramps and oppressive canopies and laying down new, high-quality paving and street furniture including bespoke granite benches with etched graphic panels depicting the rich local history.
Completed in Autumn 2013 the urban realm is now a safe, inviting space where shoppers can dwell and enjoy the time they spend in Newton Aycliffe.
We are continuing our involvement with the client into looking at future projects which may enhance the quality and value of the town centre.
With the continuing success of the French Restaurant at the Midland Hotel, the client asked KITSON Architecture to look at the possibility of introducing dedicated private WCs specifically for the French to improve the overall experience for diners. After investigating the available space we created a proposal which utilised an adjacent store room to form two self-contained luxury WCs, including a fully accessible WC, and a cloakroom.
Each room contains elegant custom-made sink units with lavish finishes and luxurious decoration to enhance the fine dining experience of this highly rated restaurant.
KITSON Architecture were appointed by contractor McGoff & Byrne to provide architectural and interior design services relating to the construction of this new Community Sports Hall at Altrincham Football Club along with refurbished changing facilities. The scheme provides a flexible space for use by the community and as a match day bar.
Coincidentally, the team were promoted to the Skrill Conference Premier league at the end of the 2013-14 season so the construction of the new facilities was perfectly timed.
Although the level of football has wavered in recent times the function room has proved a huge success for the club providing a much needed revenue stream.
KITSON Architecture Ltd successfully secured planning permission and listed building consent for a scheme at the Grade II listed Grand Hotel in Lytham St. Annes to construct a new glazed porch and access ramp.
The client’s brief was threefold: 1. To improve level access to the hotel by provision of a new ramp 2. Create a new storm porch to protect the hotel and guests from the worst of the coastal weather conditions and 3. Investigate the possibility of reinstating a former first floor balcony long since demolished.
Having analysed the brief the design process involved an extensive study of local archive information to establish the nature and aesthetics of the former balcony, a pre-application exchange of information with the planners was followed by a meeting with the local conservation officer on site to discuss the proposals. Concurrently the developing design was discussed with building control as the provision of a new fully compliant ramp was a key element of the brief.
While the minimal design in glass and steel is thoroughly contemporary KITSON Architecture Ltd have proposed red sandstone, sympathetic to the existing building, for the stone base to give the structure a firm footing both aesthetically and structurally. The massing of the proposal is similar to the design of the original porch and balcony, unearthed by study of archive information, and we are exploring the use of extra-clear ‘Optiwhite’ glass for the porch to ensure that the intricacies of the existing façade will be seen through the new construction.
This luxurious boutique hotel, located on the south Promenade in Lytham St Annes, provides twenty two additional contemporarily styled bedrooms for the parent hotel, the Grade II listed Grand, which is located just a short walk along the promenade.
Working directly for the principal contractor KITSON Architecture were able to provide the front end information the client required to get the project started quickly and then coordinate their services with those provided by the contractor and the client, both of whom had significant design input.
At the end of the 12 week programme the GrandTwentyTwo stands as a fitting compliment to the exemplary Grand Hotel and a true credit to the clients who had the vision and ambition to create this stunning hotel on the Fylde coast which is already attracting new guests.
