Commercial Conversions

Commercial conversion design & planning.

Conversions are a strategic way to unlock new value from existing assets.

Whether you’re reworking outdated office space into high-performing residential units or adapting commercial buildings for modern tenants, conversions let you respond to market demands while making the most of what you already have. But success doesn’t come from a quick fix, it’s about rethinking the building’s potential and approaching every challenge with clarity and purpose.

We help you see what’s possible. We assess constraints early, identify routes through planning, and develop designs that make the numbers work. It’s a focused, commercially-led approach to unlocking value with minimal waste — of time, money, or space.

We deliver strategic, value-driven architecture and planning that simplifies conversion projects, reduces risk, and transforms underused buildings into assets built to perform long into the future.

Shaped by the site, driven by the goal

Design & planning to overcome constraints.

Converting a building isn’t just about fitting a new use into an old shell, it’s about making that space work smarter. Many sites come with inherited limitations: awkward footprints, structural quirks, or planning policy gaps.

Our job is to anticipate these early and turn constraints into intelligent design moves. We don’t just chase approvals; we design from a position of knowledge, so you can move forward with confidence.

From Article 4 areas to Prior Approval pathways and full change-of-use applications, we tailor our planning strategy to match the opportunity. And with technical design delivered in-house, we ensure your conversion stands up to scrutiny, both at planning stage and on site.

The result? Fewer delays, less risk, and a project that’s easier to deliver.

From Potential to Project-Ready

End-to-end conversion planning & design management & clarity.

We handle every step of your commercial conversion in-house — from assessing viability and planning strategy to full architectural design and technical delivery.

Whether you’re converting an office to residential, repurposing a retail unit, or exploring permitted development rights, we bring clarity, speed, and commercial focus to the table.

With Aesthetic Shift, you get a joined-up team that understands how to unlock value from existing assets while navigating planning, design, and delivery with confidence.

How we support your project:

  • Site appraisals and conversion strategy

  • Change of use planning and prior approval

  • Layout design and space optimisation

  • Compliance with Building Regulations and design standards

  • Drawings and documents for planning and construction

  • Navigating local policy and permitted development rights
The process

From empty shell to income-generating space.

01

Feasibility & site appraisal

We begin with a clear-eyed assessment of your property—reviewing planning policy, existing fabric, structural potential, and funding viability. Early insight helps you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
02

Concept design & layout planning

We translate your commercial objectives into workable layouts—whether that’s residential conversion, mixed-use, student housing, or flexible workspace.

Every option is tested against compliance, market demand, and commercial return.

03

Planning design & submission

We prepare full planning applications tailored to conversions, including drawings, visualisations, and supporting statements.

We also manage dialogue with local authorities to help you navigate planning smoothly and de-risk the process.

04

Technical design & coordination

Our team produces coordinated technical packages, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations, fire strategy, acoustic requirements, and all relevant conversion standards.

We align with consultants and contractors to keep delivery efficient.

05

Construction support & delivery

We stay actively involved on site—resolving technical queries, reviewing submittals, and ensuring that the conversion is delivered as designed, on time, and aligned with your investment goals.

Design is personal.
So are we.

Let’s create something meaningful — together.
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We manage every from start to finish

Commercial conversion architects who understand the bigger picture.

Every commercial conversion presents its own mix of constraints and opportunities. We bring planning strategy and architectural design together under one roof to help you unlock value from existing assets—whether you’re converting office space to residential or changing use across mixed schemes.

From day one, you’ll work with a dedicated team that understands the pace, complexity, and commercial pressures of repurposing buildings. We act quickly to identify constraints, resolve issues early, and develop designs that meet policy, satisfy planners, and support long-term returns.

With a clear focus on compliance, buildability, and future flexibility, we turn underused spaces into high-performing developments that work—financially, functionally, and sustainably.

It’s a joined-up approach built to support your goals and strengthen your property portfolio.

Portfolio

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