News

Inclusive Architectural Design in Action: DSA’s Partnership with HEART for Accessible Living

At DSA, we believe that architectural design plays a crucial role in creating inclusive spaces that cater to everyone, regardless of physical ability. Our partnership with the HEART Foundation exemplifies this commitment, as we work together to provide adaptable and accessible homes for residents with disabilities across Warwickshire.

HEART (Home Environment Assessment and Response Team) is a collaborative partnership between Warwickshire County Council’s Occupational Therapy Team and several local councils, including Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council. Their mission is to help residents live safely, independently, and comfortably through home adaptations, repairs, and improvements. By joining forces with HEART, DSA helps deliver architectural solutions that transform homes into accessible spaces where individuals can maintain their independence with dignity.

The importance of Architectural Design for Accessible spaces

As society progresses, the need for spaces that accommodate everyone has become more pressing. Inclusivity in architectural design goes beyond compliance—it’s about creating environments where people feel safe, empowered and able to live independently. Whether it’s homes, public buildings, or urban developments, accessible design is now a cornerstone of thoughtful architecture. By prioritising inclusivity, we create communities that are open and welcoming to all.

DSA’s architectural services are crucial to HEART’s work, supporting the design and adaptation of homes for people with disabilities. From structural calculations and scheme drawings to project management and regulatory approvals, we work closely with HEART to ensure that each adaptation meets the unique needs of its residents.

Key Elements of Inclusive Design: Accessibility for All

To achieve truly accessible spaces, architects must integrate specific design elements that remove barriers and enhance usability for people with diverse needs. Whether it’s through improved layouts or advanced technology, the following key principles guide inclusive architectural practice.

Barrier-free access

Barrier-free access refers to the removal of physical obstacles that prevent individuals, particularly those with disabilities, from navigating spaces independently. By eliminating steps, narrow doorways, and inaccessible thresholds, architects can ensure that homes and buildings are more accessible. These adjustments not only benefit wheelchair users but also those with mobility challenges, elderly residents, and parents with prams, ensuring smoother, easier movement throughout spaces.

Intuitive wayfinding 

Intuitive wayfinding is about making navigation within a space as simple as possible. This is particularly important for individuals with cognitive disabilities or sensory impairments. By incorporating clear signage, logical layout designs, and accessible digital tools, we can help residents and visitors move through spaces with confidence and ease. Intuitive wayfinding reduces confusion and fosters independence, ensuring that everyone can find their way and feel comfortable in their surroundings.

Adjustable features in modern architecture 

Modern inclusive design often incorporates adjustable features—elements that can be modified to suit the needs of different users. From height-adjustable kitchen counters to adaptable lighting systems and moveable partitions, these features enhance flexibility within a space, allowing it to be tailored to individual preferences or physical requirements. Such innovations ensure that the spaces we create can evolve alongside the needs of their occupants.

In collaboration with HEART, DSA is committed to providing these essential modifications in homes across Warwickshire. By offering services like structural assessments, planning applications, and project management, we ensure that each adaptation is designed and delivered to the highest standard.

DSA and HEART: A Partnership for Accessible Living

Led by Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council, the HEART partnership commissions architectural services to support disabled adaptions and home improvements in Warwickshire, ensuring homes are safe and accessible.

DSA’s role in the HEART partnership is to provide vital architectural services under the framework agreement. This includes visiting residential properties to survey and assess needs, creating detailed scheme drawings, and producing full specifications and pricing documents. Our involvement ensures that these adaptations are thoughtfully designed to enhance accessibility and meet the unique needs of the residents.

DSA’s Role in Shaping Inclusive Spaces with HEART

At the core of our partnership with HEART is the belief that everyone deserves a home that supports their health, safety, and well-being. DSA’s role goes beyond technical architecture—we create environments that truly improve the lives of residents. Through effective project management, collaboration with occupational therapists, and continuous engagement with residents, we deliver functional and empowering designs.

Under the HEART framework, DSA is involved with concepts, layouts, planning permission and building regulations. We also manage health and safety during construction, conduct site visits and provide reports for the HEART team.

Whether it’s installing ramps, widening doorways, or adding adjustable features, DSA ensures each project meets the unique needs of residents. Our work with HEART not only provides architectural solutions but also supports a wider mission of inclusivity in the built environment. 

World Architecture Day 2024 – The importance of young architects in urban planning and development

At DSA, we are excited to be celebrating World Architecture Day on October 7th, created by the International Union of Architects (UIA) in 1985. It is now a tradition and a day to celebrate for all architects around the world taking place on the first Monday of October each year.

Every year comes with a specific and innovative theme, and this year the theme of World Architecture Day 2024 is “Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design”; emphasising the role of young architects in urban planning and development. And we have plenty to celebrate in this sector!

The International Union of Architects (UIA) motivates all young architects to participate and contribute to original and fresh standpoints for sustainable development. 

The main point of World Architecture Day 2024 is to promote the urban economy, where cities promote innovative practical dimensions. Here are the main areas included:

  • Energy efficiency
  • Waste management
  • The use of sustainable materials
  • The promotion of sustainable movements

Importance of young architects to be involved in urban design 

Young architects are always the principal in urban design as they come to the rescue with new, more contemporary, and efficient ideas that are environmentally friendly. They are aligned with today’s world concerns, and bring with them a fresh perspective to architecture, with never-before-seen ideas and practices. Below is why we believe it is so important to  involve young architects in urban design:

Young architects bring innovative ideas

Innovation is changing the way architects approach urban design. As cities become more densely populated, architects are tasked with designing buildings that are functional and aesthetic within a limited space. The active participation of young architects is essential to building cities that prioritise the well-being of residents and the planet, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Young architects can help increase participation in decision-making 

Involving the community in the decision-making processes of urban design from the beginning of a project increases credibility and transparency between architects, planners, and residents.

The engagement and decision-making of the community help and empower them to freely express their opinion on the proposed projects, as well as help prevent the concerns they have or encounter during the execution of the project.

This directly impacts the increase in the feeling of belonging and care for the space that they live and contributes to the development of stronger social cohesion in the city by making everyone feel more included and useful.

Advocate for sustainability

Integrating sustainable design principles into architectural projects is a top priority, especially for the next generation of architects living in today’s world.

The materials used, the orientation of the building, and the energy efficiency of the design; Architects take into account the inclusion of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and use materials that are locally sourced, sustainable, and energy efficient.

Sustainable architecture is a long-term investment and it may take time to see the benefits of its work. But sustainable design, very much a focus for the next generation of architects, helps create a better future for the planet.

Meet Claire – our newest qualified architect

Claire Stephens is our newest qualified architect, and brings with her a fresh perspective and a wealth of ideas that directly address the urban environment and today’s landscape of architectural design. 

The encouragement and support from Design Studio Architects was essential during the final stages of her submission, examination, and interview, ensuring that Claire successfully achieved her qualification and full registration as an Architect.

DSA is very proud of Claire and is always there to support, encourage, and promote all young architects, which we celebrate today on World Architect Day!

Sabrina Sudera Wins Enterprising Women’s Award for Small Business of the Year

We are thrilled to announce that Sabrina Sudera, Operations Director of Design Studio Architects, has been honoured with the prestigious Enterprising Women’s Award for Small Business of the Year. The event took place at the beautiful Winstanley House in Leicestershire and was hosted by the East Midlands Chamber.

The Enterprising Women Awards celebrate the achievements of women in business across the region, recognising those who inspire others through their leadership, innovation, and community impact. Sabrina’s recognition is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in the architectural world, and her leadership of Design Studio Architects has propelled the firm to new heights.

Sabrina Sudera Wins Enterprising Women’s Award for Small Business of the Year

 

A Journey of Dedication, Vision, and Resilience

Sabrina joined Design Studio Architects in 2021. What many people don’t realize is that she doesn’t come from an architectural background. Despite this, she stands confidently in a male-dominated industry, bringing with her an entirely different perspective. Before joining DSA, Sabrina worked within the NHS and holds a Masters in Psychology.

Her transition into the architectural world was far from easy. She joined during the pandemic, a time when many architectural projects came to a halt due to global uncertainty. Yet, Sabrina’s resilience and adaptability were clear. Since joining, she has brought a wealth of knowledge, particularly around understanding people and their motivations, which has helped to create a “people-first” culture within the firm.

Sabrina’s unique professional experience has been instrumental in shaping DSA’s operations. Her focus on strong operational foundations, teamwork, and collaboration with supply partners drives client service excellence in everything the firm does. This approach has not only enhanced how DSA operates, but it has also shaped the way the business makes decisions and invests its resources. Together, these factors have enabled significant market growth for DSA.

A Celebration of Women in Business

The Enterprising Women Awards, hosted by the East Midlands Chamber, is an esteemed event that shines a spotlight on the region’s most dynamic female entrepreneurs and business leaders. This year’s event at Winstanley House was filled with inspirational stories of women making significant impacts in their fields. Sabrina’s win in the Small Business of the Year category is a testament to her ability to thrive in a space where her background and leadership style have reshaped the company’s growth trajectory.

Sabrina’s leadership at DSA has been defined by her understanding of people, her collaborative approach, and her drive to continuously improve client experiences. By fostering a culture of trust and open communication, she has built strong relationships both internally with her team and externally with clients and partners. This holistic approach is what has enabled DSA to not only survive during the pandemic but thrive in a competitive market.

Looking to the Future

Winning the Enterprising Women’s Award for Small Business of the Year is not only an individual achievement but also an exciting chapter in Design Studio Architects’ journey. Sabrina remains focused on further expansion, sustainable practices, and delivering outstanding architectural services to clients across the UK.

Sabrina’s win is a proud moment for the entire DSA team, and her leadership continues to inspire growth and innovation. As the company looks to the future, it is clear that Sabrina’s people-first philosophy and operational excellence will be key drivers of continued success.

“Congratulations, Sabrina! We look forward to many more achievements to come.” – Keshiv Sudera

This award solidifies Sabrina Sudera’s standing as an inspiring leader, showcasing her ability to break barriers and redefine business success in architecture through her unique perspective and unwavering dedication. The future looks incredibly bright for Design Studio Architects under her leadership.

Using recycled materials and circular building design in modern architecture

Over recent years, there has been a rise in sustainable construction, including recycled materials and circular building design. Circular economy principles, waste reduction and upcycling are having an increasingly large impact on modern architectural design. 

Buildings that can be both built from recycled materials and harbour on-site recycling facilities have multiple benefits. From reducing a company’s carbon footprint to utilising components that can be reused, this holistic approach can prolong the lifespan of materials. A more efficient building can also help a business reduce their energy bills and ultimately their overheads. 

Sustainability in architectural design 

With the move towards sustainability, architectural design draws from several different planet-conscious approaches. Across the world, there have been many examples of recycled materials and sustainable principles being applied to building design.

Use of plastics: Plastics are being reused to create surfaces or structures previously only fabricated in glass. 

3D Printing: Largescale 3D printers can utilise recycled materials to create modular, prefabricated homes. 

Zero Waste: The concept of zero waste focuses on the repurposing of consumable goods and components in a bid to reduce consumption.

Instead of standard demolition and construction practices, sustainable design reclaims materials and minimises waste to reduce environmental footprint. By exploring new approaches to how existing materials and buildings can be used, we can help to conserve natural resources. This methodology often leads to innovative and creative design concepts.

Reducing building waste

Each year, construction waste contributes significantly to landfill sites. By focusing our efforts on the use of sustainable materials, we can reduce waste and contamination to support a greener future. For centuries, the construction industry has followed the same process. Raw materials are extracted, structures are built then demolished, followed by waste disposal in landfills. Traditional methods are unsustainable and negatively affect the environment.

Waste materials can be found in every stage of the construction process. From the way that building structures are built to the fixtures and fittings inside, every element needs to be considered. Certain materials such as ceramics can have a significant environmental impact.

An example of where DSA have recycled existing materials was in the reuse of an existing steel frame structure; proposing the removal and repurposing of the existing cladding.

Adaptive reuse

Instead of demolition, adaptive reuse ‘upcycles’ existing buildings into different types of property and commercial premises. Common examples that can be found across most cities in the UK include old warehouses and factories that have been transformed into residential accommodation. In hospitality, churches have been changed into restaurants and bars.

By repurposing buildings with a historical footprint, adaptive reuse preserves our heritage, reduces waste, and promotes sustainability. Read more…

We continually evaluate opportunities to implement adaptive reuse and are currently working on the refurbishment of Overton Road Community Hall in Leicester, where we are transforming an old church into a community space with apartments. 

 

Illustration of Architecture Design for Overton Road, Leicester

 

Circular economy principles in building design

Using circular economy principles in building design, we can reduce waste and pollution, and upcycle existing structures and materials. By prioritising renewable materials and materials that have been used before, we can embrace a sustainable approach to design. 

As architects, we choose to future-proof our projects by considering environmentally conscious architectural practices in our design concepts. By embracing recycled materials and upcycling methodology, we can design building concepts that reduce waste and help to protect the environment.

Encouraging Sustainability in Architecture

Our commitment to sustainable practices and the responsible use of materials is central to our practice at DSA. We encourage our clients to be mindful of sustainability and resource efficiency when considering the planning of their project, to actively reduce the impact on the environment. 

If you are looking for an architectural firm that proactively considers sustainability in construction, begin planning your next architectural project with DSA today!

Improving Sustainability with Net Zero Energy Buildings

In today’s climate-conscious world, commercial and residential architecture is continually being shaped by a focus on sustainability. We look at the increasingly popular concept of net zero energy buildings and the different types of energy-efficient technologies.

Net zero energy buildings generate the same amount of energy used by the occupants. This sustainable approach to building design often includes more than one energy efficient technology. From solar to natural ventilation and geothermal systems, there are a multitude of renewable energy sources that can be combined to achieve zero carbon targets.

Solar Design

Solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy using photovoltaic (PV) panels. The energy is then stored in a battery and used to generate electricity. They are one of the most common, long-standing renewable energy sources. Instead of applying this type of technology after construction, many architects are integrating solar panels into the fabric of the building. One of the key benefits of building solar panels into the roof is the increased efficiencies this can bring to the building. Affixing solar panels to a roof after it has been built is less energy efficient.

Natural Ventilation

Traditionally, ventilation has always been a key factor in building and roof designs. However, natural ventilation can be built into buildings, offering various energy-efficient benefits. By ventilating cool air into buildings, you can lower interior temperatures and improve air quality. Natural ventilation can be a useful approach for reducing temperatures within large commercial buildings and offices. Buildings can also be designed with convection principles to evenly distribute heating, resulting in lower energy costs.

Geothermal Systems

Geothermal heating systems that use natural underground heat are also becoming increasingly popular. Although more common in countries with close access to thermal lava flows, such as Iceland, there are growing developments for its use in the UK. Geothermal energy includes ground-source heat pumps that use low-grade heat in the shallow subsurface. It is becoming increasingly common for commercial developments to share one large ground-source heat pump between multiple business premises for heat generation.

Other Renewable Energy Sources

Wind turbines and kinetic energy sources are continually being improved to increase efficiencies. Mainly limited by their size or energy output, we are likely to see new concepts emerging that embrace these technologies. One key aspect of sustainable design is the reduction of waste materials, including a steady increase of biomass boilers. These systems burn carbon neutral fuels and are increasingly being used for larger industrial developments.

Climate Change Impact

More sustainable design principles are gradually being included within legislation for new constructions. As well as enabling companies to offset their carbon footprint, combining various renewable technologies within architectural concepts can achieve net zero energy buildings. Due to climate concerns, energy-efficient technologies like solar panels, ground-source heat pumps and natural ventilation are being built into modern building designs.

Sustainability is Shaping Architectural Design

Commercial and residential architecture need to embrace renewable energy sources to create energy-efficient buildings. As forward-thinking architects, we always consider sustainability in our design including the concept of net zero energy buildings.

By future-proofing our projects with sustainable practices, we can develop building concepts that benefit both the occupants and the environment. 

What does it mean to be ARB registered?

When you are looking to hire an architect, it’s important to check the Architects Registration Board (ARB). All genuine architects must be ARB registered to legally hold this title. Put simply, if someone is not listed then this means they are not an architect.

Under the Architects Act 1997, the title ‘architect’ is protected by law. Only individuals that have gained the necessary education and training, along with relevant experience, can hold this title. Once qualified, architects are then added to the Architect’s Register. Within our team, our registered architects are Keshiv Sudera and Claire Stephens.

Although an independent professional regulator, under the Act, the ARB is accountable to the government by Parliament as a statutory body. There are some mandatory requirements that go along with being registered with the ARB that benefit both our team and our clients.

Your measure for quality assurance

Through the Building Safety Act 2022, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) is responsible for regulating and monitoring the quality of architects. Being registered with the ARB is a quality assurance measure and ensures architects are competent.

The ARB monitors architects’ training and development through their continuing professional development scheme (CPD). This scheme provides a series of meaningful activities throughout the year to ensure architects maintain a professional level of competence. From on-the-job learning to more formal demonstrations, development can be undertaken in a variety of ways. Example topics could include areas such as ethics, safety and sustainability. 

An architect plays an important role in creating safe and sustainable environments. One of the ARB’s pillars is to ensure that “everyone in society can live well”. The ARB’s CPD scheme is a requirement, and architects must log their training activities as evidence. An audit is carried out each year for both compliance and quality assurance purposes. 

Delivering quality to our clients

It’s important to both our practice and our clients that we hold the necessary registrations and qualifications. Therefore, our architects undergo continuous CPD training and development to maintain their knowledge and skill set. It reassures our clients that our architects have the necessary qualifications, experience and skills to work on a project.

Through the ARB’s CPD scheme and other relevant activities, our architects can also keep up to date with architectural best practice. This scheme ensures that we are applying current thinking and techniques within our own practice. From new ideas, innovations and techniques to safety protocols, every aspect of our design draws from the latest learnings.

ARB registered architects ensure competence

In conclusion, if you need to hire an architect, always check the Architect’s Register, which is managed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Regardless of the type of project, it’s important to have qualified and experienced architects on board. By using an ARB registered architect, you should expect a high level of competence and a quality service.

Our ARB registered architects ensure that our client have full peace of mind when they hire our team for a project. 

Types of Commercial Architecture

Commercial architecture is the design and construction of buildings intended for business or public use. We look at the different types of commercial architecture, from offices to hospitality settings and educational environments.

Commercial buildings need to be functional and aesthetical, serving the diverse needs of businesses, organisations, and the general public. Understanding the varying approaches required for different commercial buildings will help you to plan your construction project.

Commercial Architecture for Offices

Office buildings are a typical example of commercial architecture. Design approaches will vary depending on the size of the business and whether the building is intended for use by more than one company. Over the years, office design trends have changed significantly to feature more open floors and zones to support employee well-being. 

As commercial architects, we focus on creating adaptable workspaces that can evolve with the changing demands of a business. As an example, we redesigned aspects of OEM Automatics’ offices to create a more approachable and inviting space for their clients.

Designing for Retail

Designed for businesses that sell goods and services, retail spaces are another common type of commercial architecture. Located within standalone stores or shopping centres, these spaces need to attract customers. Enticing window displays and flexible interior design approaches help to draw in potential customers and drive footfall. 

We transformed a small retail shop into a fully refurbished jeweller for Gold Forever. The modular layout allowed jewellery items to be presented side by side. Freestanding bespoke display cases enabled easy transportation to different store locations, allowing for flexible content creation in line with the latest trends.

Hospitality Architecture for Customer Retention

Hospitality architecture covers a range of buildings designed for accommodation or leisure use, such as restaurants, resorts and hotels. These commercial spaces need to be welcoming and provide comfort for guests. From seating to lighting and tasteful décor schemes, the aim is to influence guest satisfaction and encourage repeat business.

We enjoy transforming buildings into hospitality settings. One of our recent designs changed the use of a derelict manor house into a brand-new banqueting facility.

Creating industrial buildings

Industrial architecture typically focuses on buildings involved in manufacturing or storage. These spaces need to be efficient and safe, designed to accommodate industrial processes, machinery and workflows.

As commercial architects, we regularly design buildings for industrial use. We designed a commercial unit for a clothes manufacturer, which required an understanding of all relevant planning conditions.

Frisby Commercial Unit

Institutional Buildings for large footfall

Institutional architecture usually has an emphasis on functionality and accessibility to support various types of services. These buildings serve government and public bodies, such as schools, universities, and hospitals.

One of our projects in this area involved the modernisation and improvement of a mental health facility for children. The use of specific materials and modern forms were aimed at promoting a sense of well-being for both patients and staff.

Commercial Architecture Shapes Our World

Understanding the different types of commercial architecture is the key to shaping how these spaces need to be designed. Commercial spaces are where we work, shop, stay, and learn, so they need to be functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

By using an experienced commercial architect, your ideas can be turned into designs that not only meet but exceed the needs of your business.

Commercial Architectural Trends in 2024

Today’s office buildings, retail stores and hospitality settings are increasingly being designed with a changing user in mind. We look at the latest commercial architecture trends for 2024, from sustainability to smart technologies and modular construction. 

Commercial architecture focuses on the design and construction of commercial buildings, as well as renovation and adaptive reuse. As commercial buildings are workplaces, architects need to consider how the building will be used, always balancing function with aesthetics.

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

Due to climate change concerns, the drive for sustainability and energy-efficient buildings continues to be a big focus for architects worldwide. Projects that incorporate renewable energies, such as solar panels and ground source heat pumps, are increasingly popular with businesses looking to offset their carbon footprint. 

Green agendas are steering architectural concepts from the foundations to rooftop design. From sustainable, energy-efficient building materials to minimising energy consumption, every aspect of design needs to consider wastage, and lighting and heating costs. 

Smart Technology and Commercial Buildings

From voice-activated assistants to lighting and temperature control, building design is increasingly being focused on smart technology. Retailers in particular are steadily integrating immersive, virtual technologies into their stores, creating ‘phygital’ and augmented customer environments. In commercial architecture, building design increasingly needs to incorporate the latest digital technologies to enhance workspaces and security.

Adaptive Reuse and Repurposing Of Buildings

In a bid to maximise brownfield sites, the trend for adaptive reuse of commercial buildings continues, often changing planning use. In the Midlands, we have seen old hosiery factories successfully redesigned to accommodate individual offices and residential care homes. From an architectural perspective, there is a drive to retain attractive historical features within the building design, balancing with sustainable elements to maximise efficiencies.

Modular Construction and Prefabricated Buildings

Over 2024, we are likely to see an increasing use of prefabricated modules for commercial builds, which can be manufactured and assembled onsite. Known as modular construction, there are various benefits to this type of building approach, including time and cost savings. Modular construction can also make use of prefabricated, environmentally friendly materials for sustainability targets, such as sustainable timber with integrated solar panels. 

Wellness Experiences: Natural Light and Quiet Areas

As the changing needs of society are being echoed in architectural design, buildings are no longer designed for purely functional purposes. With a growing focus on maximising natural light and incorporating quiet areas, there is a trend for commercial buildings to support workers’ wellness. Many corporate spaces are increasingly being defined with biophilic design, linking the outdoors to green spaces using glass walls and facades. 

Embrace Changing User Needs to Future-Proof Projects

In conclusion, commercial user needs are rapidly changing when compared to architectural design only a decade ago. As businesses embrace the need for greater sustainability and spaces that enhance wellness, we need to adopt emerging technologies and environmentally friendly practices.

By staying up to date with the latest architectural trends, we can future-proof our projects and develop sustainable environments that benefit us all.

Q&A: Class MA Changes 2024, Your Questions Answered

Q&A: Changes to Class MA in 2024

In March 2024, changes were implemented to some of the key rights stipulated in using a Class MA of the GDPO to convert your property from commercial to residential. 

We spoke to our Managing Director, Keshiv Sudera, who sat down with us to answer the most common customer questions, in regards to the recent changes to Class MA.

Q: What are the changes to Class MA in 2024?

A: There are 2 key changes to the Class MA permitted development rights that have created more opportunities for our customers and landlords across the UK. These changes will be implemented on 5th March 2024 onwards. 

1. Maximum space limit discontinued – there is no longer a limit in place of the maximum number of square metres a commercial property can have to convert into a C3 property using Class MA (previously 1,500 square metres).

2. Commercial property does not need to be vacant – previously, the commercial property had to be vacant for more than 3 months to use a Class MA. This is no longer needed.

Q: Are these changes a help or a hindrance, as a landlord?

A: In short, it’s a huge help! The new changes to the rights have reduced some of the limitations previously in place, preventing you from using Class MA to convert your commercial property. With these now lifted, more commercial properties will be able to take advantage of the shorter planning requirements and turn around conversions in a much quicker time. 

Q: Which types of buildings will be affected by the change of use under Class MA?

A: The commercial building to be converted must be categorised as a Use Class E building, which includes offices, shops, gyms, cafes and restaurants. The outcome of the conversion must be a C3 residential dwelling, including flats, houses and apartments, each for 1 household of up to 6 people. 

Q: What are the new benefits to Class MA?

A: If you are looking to convert a Use Class E building into a C3 residential dwelling, the benefits are largely around the reduction of planning time. By using a Class MA, you only need to obtain a ‘Prior Approval Application’, where a decision is made by the local authority within 56 days. This is substantially less than full planning permission. 

Equally, if you have a building that has been partly converted to a residential dwelling, previously restricted by the floor space limits, you can now fully convert the space to residential. 

Q: What are the current uses covered under Class E for buildings?

A: Here are some of the most common examples of a Use Class E building:

  • Offices
  • Shops
  • Gyms
  • Cafes
  • Restaurants
  • Workshops
  • Retail
  • Financial Services
  • Professional Services
  • Health Facilities
  • Medical Facilities
  • Creche
  • Nursery
  • Indoor Sport Facilities
  • Recreation Facilities
  • Non-residential institutions
  • Leisure Facilities

You can find a full list of the building purposes authorised in Use Class E in the Use Class Order 2020 Legislation.

Q: Are there any specific regulations or guidelines associated with the changes to Class MA?

A: Yes, as mentioned previously, you must be looking to convert a Use Class E building into a Use Class C3. As opposed to C4, a C3 property is restricted to being occupied by one ‘household’ or family and up to 2 lodgers. You cannot use Class MA to convert your property into a C4 or HMO.  

The commercial building must have been categorised as a Use Class E for at least 2 years. 

Equally, if you are looking to make any external changes to the building, such as windows and doors, you may still need to apply for planning permission. 

Q: Will property owners need to seek approval for changing the use of their buildings under the new regulations?

A: Yes, but you will only need to obtain a ‘Prior Approval Application’ instead of full planning permission, unless you are looking to make external changes to the property. This should dramatically reduce the time needed to seek and obtain permission from the local authority to begin converting the property. 

Q: Great, I want to use Class MA to convert my commercial property. 

What do I do now?

A: Book an appointment with the DSA team to talk through your options. We will advise whether Class MA is right for your building and begin the process with you to apply for the necessary permission. We will guide you through what can and cannot be facilitated under this order, and help you to design the layout of your new residential property to maximise the space available. 

Glossary of terms mentioned in this article:

GPDO: The General Permitted Development Order grants permission to carry out certain activities such as property extensions, installing fencing, erecting outbuildings, etc.

Class MA: Class MA is a permitted development right, where you can convert a commercial unit or a ‘Use Class E’ building, such as offices, shops, gyms, cafes and restaurants, into a C3 residential dwelling. 

Use Class E: A commercial building including offices, shops, gyms, cafes and restaurants. 

Use Class C3: A residential dwelling for families or households of up to 6 people and is intended for permanent residential use. These include flats, houses and apartments. 

Use Class C4: A Small HMO as the main residence for 3-6 unrelated people. They share the use of amenities such as bathrooms, living area and kitchens.

HMO: Houses in Multiple Occupation. An HMO can be large or small but in all cases must have at least 3 tenants, a shared bathroom and kitchen facilities and be the residence of more than 1 household (family).

Prior Approval Planning Application: This is an application submitted to the local planning authority who decide whether to permit your conversion based on the property’s adherence to the requirements of the GDPO used. The process costs £100 per dwelling and takes 56 days to complete. Once approved, you must complete the planned conversion within 3 years. 

Landlord’s Guide: New UK Legislation for Short-Term Lets of Residential Property

What is this guide?

Many of our customers rent out their properties using short-term let agreements. DSA has created this guide, using a question-and-answer format, to supply you with all the information you require, as a landlord, to manage your property portfolio in adherence to the announcement of the new legislation. 

What is a ‘short-term let property’?

A short-term rental property is a dwelling that is provided by a host to a guest as accommodation in exchange for payment. 

What is the new compulsory registration scheme?

On 19th February 2024, the UK Government announced a new legal requirement for landlords renting out their property as short-term lets to apply to the local council for permission to do so.

The new legislation requires landlords to acquire permission from the local authority, registering their property under a new ‘use’ category. 

Following the registration of properties, a new, mandatory national register of short-term let properties will be made available to local authorities. 

The aim of the new legislation is to ensure that the UK reaps the benefits of the increasing visitor economy by ensuring visitor accommodation sustainability. This must be balanced with the protection of local communities by improving the availability of long-term housing.

Why the change?

Over the last 15 years, the property landscape has changed considerably, with many landlords choosing to attract the tourist market by letting out their residential property as guest accommodation.

The advance of digital platforms, such as AirBnB, has enabled more landlords to enter the market this way and offer their properties to traveling individuals looking for a short term stay. 

The government points to three key reasons as to why their needs to be more restrictions around the saturation of short-term lettings in local areas:

1. Loss of community:

In areas with a higher density of short-term let properties, the ‘hollowing out’ of communities is evident where certain areas have become holiday  hotspots, reducing the number of long-term residents. 2

2. Increased housing prices:

In areas with more short-term let properties, this has caused an impact on the availability and affordability of rental properties in the local area, due to landlords prioritising the more profitable short-term let market than longer-term. Equally, an increase in house prices is evident due to reduced supply and increased demand.

3. Lack of regulation:

Unlike the traditional guest accommodation market, including B&Bs and hotels, individual properties are much more difficult to regulate in the protection of the health and safety of visitors. 

How will this affect me as a Landlord?

It is widely recognised that the availability of short-term let properties does bring economic value in individual income for landlords, increased tourism, wider diversity of accommodation on offer and increased visitor spend within the local area. It is important that the registration requirements do not detract from this. 

If you currently have your property listed on short-term letting platforms such as AirBnB, you will benefit from the clearer rules now being put in place to support the regulation of your accommodation, providing guests with a reliable and improved experience. 

The local authority will also now be able to control and manage the balance between needs of short-term and longer-term accommodation by accessing the information and data to monitor the health of the community. They will be able to grow the local area by providing facilities that match the needs of those residing in the area, both short and long-term. 

When will the new Legislation be implemented?

The legislation changes will be introduced in Summer 2024. We will keep you updated via our Architecture Insights blog on the progress and timeline of the new legislation’s implementation. 

To read more about the Government consultation on the registration scheme for short-term lets, visit the Government website article.