Listed Building Office Conversion

High Street, St.Albans, Hertfordshire, UK

Simon Kaufman Architects were commissioned to deliver the architectural design and planning documentation for the sensitive refurbishment of 17 High Street, a Grade II listed building in the heart of St Albans' historic conservation area. The project repurposed previously underused upper floors and the basement while carefully preserving the heritage character of this prominent High Street property.

The ground floor continues to operate as the Shaken Cow milkshake bar, with the basement converted into a consolidated storage area to improve operational efficiency. The first and second floors, long vacant, have been transformed into modern office spaces with a separate rear access via Waxhouse Gate, providing flexible, contemporary workspaces in a central town centre location.

Key challenges included navigating listed building constraints, managing uneven historic floor levels, and upgrading ventilation, services, and internal finishes. Heritage features such as timber joists, sash windows, and plasterwork were carefully restored, while modern building services—including new air-handling units for office air conditioning—were discreetly integrated to maintain the building's character.

Simon Kaufman Architects coordinated all stages of design, from site surveys and heritage analysis to planning approval and detailed technical drawings. The design strategy prioritised minimal intervention, with restored historic finishes complemented by high-quality contemporary additions, such as rooflights and concealed ducting, to deliver fully compliant, functional spaces without compromising the building's historic integrity.

This project highlights our expertise in adaptive reuse of historic buildings, particularly in town centre conservation areas. By unlocking previously unused floor space, the scheme increases the commercial value of the property, enhances operational functionality, and preserves its contribution to St Albans' historic streetscape. It exemplifies how careful design, planning knowledge, and heritage sensitivity can deliver high-quality, commercially viable outcomes for developers in complex heritage settings.