Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architects for Historic and Traditional Design in Canterbury
Anthony Swaine has built a distinguished reputation as an architectural practice specialising in traditional and classical design, historic building conservation, and urban design within historic contexts. Established in 1945 by Anthony Swaine, a renowned Conservation Architect, the practice continues under the leadership of Directors David Stere and Clive Bowley, who bring decades of combined expertise in architectural and conservation fields. Our work encompasses traditional joinery detailing, oak-framed construction, building repair, and new construction projects, all executed with meticulous attention to historical integrity. We pride ourselves on producing high-quality drawings for planning designs, historic detailing, and construction details from our unique office within a medieval bastion tower in Canterbury. Our full range of architectural services includes concept planning, detailed design, and on-site construction oversight, ensuring every project realises the care embedded in its design.We serve private clients, developers, and local government bodies, balancing expertise in historic buildings with contemporary design solutions tailored to modern needs. Our heritage consultancy services provide Historic Building Reports, Conservation Plans, and Heritage Impact Assessments, supporting professionals and authorities in preserving architectural legacy. Rooted in the traditions of the past, we embrace the challenge of integrating contemporary approaches where necessary, creating subtle interventions that enhance historic character. Our philosophy celebrates the craftsmanship of ancient buildings and the quality of environments within historic settlements, ensuring our interventions respect and preserve their unique character. With a team of seven staff operating from Canterburys historic city walls, we remain committed to advancing the traditions of excellence established over 75 years ago.
Services
Historic Building Conservation
Oak Framed Construction
Urban Design Consultancy
Heritage Impact Assessments
Traditional Joinery Detailing
Building Repair Services
Contemporary Design Solutions
Planning Advice
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of expertise in historic building conservation and traditional design.
- Our team provides full architectural services from concept to construction completion.
- We specialise in heritage consultancy, including Conservation Plans and Impact Assessments.
- Our office within Canterbury's medieval walls reflects our deep connection to historic architecture.
- We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern solutions for contemporary functionality.
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Historic Building Consultants
Services
Historic Building Conservation
Specialised conservation services for historic buildings, focusing on preserving architectural integrity through traditional techniques and materials. Our team conducts detailed assessments and implements repair strategies that maintain historical authenticity while meeting modern standards. We work closely with local authorities and private clients to ensure compliance with conservation regulations.
Oak Framed Construction
Custom oak-framed structures combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. We create durable, aesthetically pleasing frameworks for residential and commercial projects, using sustainably sourced materials. Our expertise ensures seamless integration with both historic and modern architectural styles.
Heritage Consultancy
Comprehensive consultancy services including Historic Building Reports, Conservation Plans, and Heritage Impact Assessments. We advise professionals and local authorities on preserving architectural heritage while accommodating development needs. Our reports provide actionable insights for maintaining historical significance.
Urban Design Consultancy
Strategic urban design solutions that respect historic contexts while enhancing modern functionality. We specialise in revitalising historic settlements through sensitive interventions that balance preservation with contemporary urban demands, ensuring cohesive and sustainable development.
Traditional Joinery Detailing
Precision joinery detailing for historic and new-build projects, using time-honoured techniques to create intricate wooden elements. Our services include bespoke staircases, mouldings, and structural components, ensuring authenticity in restoration and innovation in new designs.
People
David Stere
Director
Director with 20+ years' experience in architectural design and project management. Specialises in construction processes and 3D visualisation, overseeing all aspects of design from concept to completion.
Clive Bowley
Director
Director and Institute of Historic Building Consultants member with 30 years' conservation expertise. Former Principal Conservation Officer at Canterbury City Council, specialising in traditional architectural detailing and heritage consultancy.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialise in?
We specialise in traditional and classical design, historic building conservation, and contemporary projects that respect historic contexts.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings, providing conservation and restoration services that meet strict heritage guidelines.
Can you assist with planning permissions for historic properties?
Yes, we offer planning advice and prepare Heritage Impact Assessments to support applications for historic properties.
Where is your practice located?
Our office is based within a medieval bastion tower on Pound Lane, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2BZ.
How do you balance modern needs with historic preservation?
We integrate contemporary design solutions where necessary, ensuring interventions enhance rather than compromise historic character.
