Architectural expertise for historic and characterful buildings
Helping you care for, adapt, and future‑proof the buildings you love.
Chartered Architect (RIBA) • Conservation Registrant • SPAB Caseworker
Older buildings deserve solutions that respect their history while supporting modern life. I specialise in sensitive, conservation‑led architecture for listed buildings, churches, and homes in conservation areas — guiding you through every stage with clarity, care, and practical expertise.
Listed & Historic Buildings
Advice, design, and permissions for alterations, repairs, and extensions to listed buildings and homes in conservation areas.
Church Architecture & Quinquennial Inspections
Condition surveys, repair planning, and long‑term stewardship for church buildings.
Sensitive Extensions & Adaptations
Thoughtful, character‑led designs that improve how your building works for you today.
What we do
Every historic building has its own story, quirks, and constraints. My role is to help you understand what your building needs — and how to make changes that respect its character while supporting modern life.
My approach is grounded in conservation principles and informed by my work as a SPAB Caseworker, where I advise on the repair and care of traditional buildings across the UK.
Services
Listed Building Advice & Permissions
- Listed building consent
- Conservation area applications
- Heritage statements
- Early‑stage feasibility advice
Sensitive Alterations & Extensions
- Designs that complement historic character
- Improving layouts and accessibility
- Integrating modern living without compromise
Repair & Maintenance Guidance
- Damp, timber decay, and fabric issues
- Traditional materials and repair methods
- Maintenance plans and prioritised recommendations
Project Oversight
- Tendering and contractor coordination
- Site inspections
- Ensuring work is carried out sensitively and correctly
Church Architecture
- Quinquennial inspections
- Repair specifications
- Long‑term stewardship and maintenance planning
How I work
I begin by understanding your building — its history, construction, and the way you use it. From there, I offer clear, practical advice and designs that balance heritage, your needs, and your long‑term goals.
What Our Clients say:
“Gill’s knowledge of historic buildings is exceptional. She guided us through every step with patience and clarity.”
— The Bower House, Market Harborough
"Gill has done an amazingly great job and the design is so sensitive and so clearly communicated."
- Homeowner, Bletchley.
Quinquennial Inspections for Churches
Church buildings require care, attention, and a long‑term view. I have worked with church architecture since 2012 and understand the unique challenges these buildings face — from fabric repairs to accessibility, energy use, and community needs.
As a SPAB Caseworker, I bring a conservation‑minded, fabric‑first approach to every inspection.
What a QI includes
- A thorough condition survey
- Clear, prioritised recommendations
- Practical guidance for PCCs
- Support with maintenance planning
- Advice on repairs, materials, and funding routes
My approach
I aim to make quinquennial inspections genuinely useful — not just a report for the shelf. PCCs receive clear explanations, realistic priorities, and guidance they can act on.
Let’s talk about your building
Whether you’re at the very beginning of a project or looking for specific advice, I’m always happy to help.
Email:gill@larkspurarchitects.co.uk
Phone:07815086161
Who we are
Gill Pedler RIBA
Gill Pedler RIBA — Architect & Conservation Specialist
I founded Larkspur Architects to support the custodians of older and historic buildings — from homeowners to PCCs — with thoughtful, conservation‑led architectural advice.
I’m a Chartered Architect, RIBA Conservation Registrant, and SPAB Caseworker, with more than a decade of experience working exclusively with traditional and unusual buildings. My work is rooted in a fabric‑first approach: understanding how a building was made, how it has changed over time, and what it needs to thrive in the future.
I believe in clarity, kindness, and practical guidance. Whether you’re planning a sensitive extension, navigating listed building consent, or caring for a church, I’m here to help you make informed, confident decisions.
Values
Respect for history — every building has a story worth understanding
Practicality — clear advice, realistic solutions, no jargon
Sensitivity — designs that feel natural, not imposed
Stewardship — helping buildings last for generations
