Heritage plays a key role in society. It improves our wellbeing and quality of life, and the way we perceive places. It engages us, giving us a sense of belonging and identity.
A huge proportion of our buildings are historic, and bring specific challenges – both in making them accessible to everyone, and in reducing their energy usage. It takes understanding, care and creativity to do this without damaging what makes the building special.
We unlock heritage assets by understanding their past significance, present use and future potential. This knowledge helps us to decide whether buildings should be adapted for new uses, sensitively restored, or enhanced with contemporary additions.
News | 25th July 2025
The Portico has been shortlisted in the Adaptive Reuse into Other (over £5m) category of the AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards 2025. These awards celebrate architectural excellence in the renewal and repurposing of existing buildings. While retaining and adapting heritage assets is inherently sustainable, it must also ensure modern functional and operational needs are met, […]
Insights | 28th April 2025
Lily works as an architectural assistant and heritage advisor in our London studio and has a Masters in Conservation Architecture. Below she shares some of her findings from her recent research—Heritage in Times of Conflict: An Evaluation of the Role of Communities in Safeguarding Cultural Heritage in Ukraine. “At ADP, we recognise the importance of […]
Insights | 3rd December 2024
Built in 1901, Granton Station stands as a testament to the transformative power of adaptive reuse. Once a key piece of infrastructure connecting people to the Granton Gasworks, the station fell into dereliction after the gasworks closed. Its redevelopment has breathed new life into this historic landmark, creating a vibrant hub that blends heritage preservation […]
Planning Awards 2019: Best Use of Heritage in Placemaking – Commendation
Spanish City: Bringing a national treasure back to life
Civic Trust AABC Conservation Awards 2019 – Commendation
Spanish City: Bringing a national treasure back to life
Planning Excellence RTPI Awards 2019: Excellence in Planning for Heritage and Culture – Winner
Spanish City: Bringing a national treasure back to life