Business Details
Expert Architectural Design & Conservation Services in Preston & Manchester
Francis Roberts Architects is a distinguished practice specialising in architectural design, historic building conservation, and urban planning. With studios in Preston and Manchester, we collaborate with private clients, landowners, trusts, and community groups to deliver innovative solutions for new constructions, heritage restorations, and sustainable urban developments. Our expertise extends to complex projects involving listed buildings, including iconic structures like Blackpool Tower and Cartmel Priory. Backed by specialist AABC accreditation, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern methodologies to address conservation challenges. Our portfolio includes award-winning residential schemes for the Duchy of Cornwall, educational facilities such as Nansledan School in Newquay, and public infrastructure projects across the UK.We prioritise contextual sensitivity, technical excellence, and client collaboration to create enduring architectural solutions. Our team's deep understanding of heritage legislation and construction techniques ensures compliance with rigorous conservation standards. Through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to design integrity, we have established a reputation for delivering projects that harmonise historical significance with contemporary functionality. Regular engagement with stakeholders and local authorities enables us to navigate planning processes efficiently while maintaining architectural authenticity. This approach has solidified our position as trusted advisors in both private and public sector projects requiring specialist conservation knowledge.
Services
Architectural Design
Heritage Conservation
Urban Planning
Residential Projects
Public Building Development
Historic Restoration
New Construction
Project Management
Listed Building Consultancy
Sustainable Design
Highlights and features
- Specialist AABC accreditation for heritage and conservation projects
- Proven expertise in listed building restoration and urban design
- Collaborative approach with private and public sector clients
- Extensive experience with Duchy of Cornwall residential developments
- Technical proficiency in historic and contemporary construction methods
Associations and certifications
- AABC
Services
Architectural Design
We create tailored architectural solutions for new constructions and adaptive reuse projects. Our approach integrates aesthetic vision with technical precision, ensuring compliance with planning regulations and sustainability standards. Services cover concept development, detailed design, and construction documentation for residential, educational, and public buildings.
Heritage Conservation
Specialist conservation services for listed buildings and historic structures. Our AABC-accredited team conducts condition assessments, prepares heritage impact statements, and implements sympathetic restoration techniques. Projects include faade reconstructions, timber repairs, and compliance with heritage legislation for properties like Blackpool Tower.
Urban Planning
Comprehensive urban design services for village extensions, masterplans, and public spaces. We facilitate community engagement and navigate planning approvals to deliver cohesive developments. Recent projects include Bletchingdon Village Extension and mixed-use schemes in Poundbury.
Residential Projects
Custom residential architecture for private clients and developers. Services range from single-dwelling designs to large-scale housing schemes, including Duchy of Cornwall developments. We focus on spatial efficiency, material selection, and integration with natural surroundings.
Public Building Development
Design and delivery of public buildings including schools, medical centres, and cultural facilities. Our work on Nansledan School and Lostock Hall Medical Centre demonstrates expertise in creating functional, accessible spaces that meet community needs while adhering to budgetary constraints.
People
Francis Roberts
Founding Architect
Francis Roberts (1930-2025) established the practice with a focus on heritage architecture. His expertise in conservation shaped the firm's approach to historic buildings, influencing projects like Blackpool Tower restoration and Accrington townscape initiatives.
Dominic Roberts
Director
Dominic Roberts leads project delivery with specialist AABC accreditation. He oversees conservation schemes and new developments, maintaining the practice's commitment to architectural integrity while advancing sustainable design principles across diverse building types.
Sally Stone
Lead Architect
Sally Stone specialises in residential and urban projects, managing schemes in the Peak District and East Midlands. Her work on Duchy of Cornwall developments demonstrates expertise in creating context-sensitive homes that balance modern living requirements with environmental considerations.
Questions
What areas do you operate in?
We work across the UK with studios in Preston and Manchester. Our projects span Oxfordshire, Cornwall, Northamptonshire, Dorset, and the East Midlands, focusing on both urban and rural environments.
Are you qualified for listed building projects?
Yes, our AABC accreditation certifies us to handle heritage and conservation work on listed buildings, ensuring compliance with strict preservation standards while implementing modern solutions.
What building types do you specialise in?
We handle residential, educational, public, and religious buildings. Recent projects include schools, medical centres, village extensions, and conservation work on historic structures like cathedrals and town landmarks.
How do you approach urban design?
Our urban planning integrates community needs with architectural coherence. We focus on sustainable development patterns, public space enhancement, and preserving local character through collaborative stakeholder engagement.
Can you manage large-scale developments?
Yes, we oversee complex projects from concept to completion, including multi-phase schemes like the Lostock Hall Medical Centre redevelopment and Bletchingdon Village Extension.
