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Design Studio Architects

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23/09/2026

We've been working across the West Midlands for some time. Now we've brought that work together in one place.

Alongside residential development, our experience includes commercial schemes and heritage-led projects, with senior architects involved from technical design through to delivery.

Working across Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Wolverhampton and the wider West Midlands.

Explore our regional work:https://ds-a.co.uk/dsa-birmingham/

16/09/2026

We've deliberately remained a boutique practice.

For our clients, that means senior architects remain involved throughout projects, from the initial site review through to technical delivery and handover.

On complex schemes, continuity matters. Keeping the same people involved means knowledge and design intent aren't lost as a project moves through its stages.

Meet the DSA team: https://ds-a.co.uk/our-team/

09/09/2026

Some of the most challenging development projects are those where heritage and building safety requirements need to be addressed together.

Historic fabric may need to be retained, while the proposed use can introduce new structural, fire and regulatory requirements.

Considering these issues together at an early stage can help avoid problems further into the project.

Find out more about DSA's approach to complex and high-risk buildings: https://ds-a.co.uk/contact-us/

02/09/2026

Could your vacant commercial building have potential for residential conversion?

Class MA can provide a route for some properties to change to residential use under permitted development rights, but there are a number of conditions to consider.

Previous use, vacancy periods, prior approval, natural light and space standards can all affect whether a proposal is viable.

If you're assessing a property for conversion, understanding the options early can help avoid unnecessary time and cost.

Find out more: https://ds-a.co.uk/commercial-architecture/

26/08/2026

Not every building with planning significance is a 'listed' property.

Former pubs are a good example. They can have an established place within their local community and surroundings, which can become an important consideration when looking at a change of use.

Cottage Mews had stood vacant following a fire before being brought forward for residential development.

The scheme responded to the existing character of the building and its wider context, bringing a previously unused site back into residential use.

If you're considering the potential of a former pub or similar building, understanding the planning and design context early can help establish what is realistically achievable.

See the Cottage Mews project: https://ds-a.co.uk/properties/cottage-mews/

19/08/2026

Historic buildings can present significant challenges for developers, but a heritage site does not necessarily make it an unviable project.

Grey Friars in Leicester's Old Town is a good example. Working with two Grade II listed buildings and a non-designated heritage asset, DSA developed a scheme for 62 apartments and commercial space, with full planning permission granted.

The project demonstrates how understanding the existing building and its constraints from the outset can help create a viable route forward.

Read the full project story: https://ds-a.co.uk/historic-grey-friars-site-major-redevelopment-by-design-studio-architects/

14/08/2026

🥾 Claire is taking on a Mighty challenge! 💚

On 12 September, Claire will be taking on the Cotswolds Mighty Hike Half Marathon to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Claire is aiming to raise £250 to help Macmillan continue providing vital support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. She’s already raised £105 – that’s 42% of the way there! 🙌

Every donation, no matter how big or small, can help make a real difference.

If you’d like to support Claire and help her reach her target, you can donate here:
👉 https://macmillan-mightyhikes-v2.blackbaud-sites.com/fundraising/claires-mighty-hike1808

Good luck, Claire! We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way. 💚

13/08/2026

🚀 We’ve had a makeover!

We’re excited to officially launch the new DSA website 🎉

After plenty of work behind the scenes, our new site is now live - with a fresh look, improved navigation and an easier way to discover everything DSA has to offer.

Our new website has been designed to make exploring our projects and finding out more about our services a clearer and more engaging experience.

Take a look and explore our new online home: https://ds-a.co.uk/

We’d love to know what you think!

29/07/2026

A plot of land might look perfect on a sunny afternoon, but hidden architectural constraints can quickly drain your budget if they aren't caught early 📉⚠️

Before you commit to a plot, it’s vital to assess the technical realities of the site. At DSA, we evaluate the complex factors that standard buyers miss:

🔹 Topography & Levels: Steep gradients require creative multi-storey stepping and complex engineering. We design in harmony with the landscape, turning a slope into a stunning architectural feature rather than a costly obstacle.
🔹 Conservation & Heritage: Building in a sensitive conservation area requires a delicate, contextual approach to planning. We specialise in navigating local authority regulations to get designs approved where others face setbacks.
🔹 Passive Orientation: We analyse how the sun moves across your plot to maximise natural light, integrate passive solar heating and map out privacy angles from neighbours.

Whether it’s an awkward shape, an elevation challenge or a strict local planning committee, we know how to unlock a site’s true potential.

📞 Let’s talk planning: 0116 251 0606
🔗 https://ds-a.co.uk/residential-projects/

22/07/2026

The single biggest hurdle for most self-builders isn’t the design - it’s finding the right piece of land 🗺️

If you're searching for the perfect canvas for your bespoke home, looking beyond standard property portals is essential. Here are three pro-tips for uncovering hidden plots in and around Leicestershire:

1️⃣ The Right to Build Register: Local councils are legally required to keep a register of people looking for land in their area. Signing up for your local authority’s register helps them gauge demand and identify suitable custom-build plots.
2️⃣ Demolition & Replacement Opportunities: Often, the best plot isn’t empty land - it’s a site with a derelict bungalow or an old structure ready for replacement. This frequently comes with utilities already connected, saving thousands.
3️⃣ Look for ‘Infill’ Sites: Look closely at oversized corner plots, redundant commercial land or large side gardens within established residential areas.

The DSA Advantage: Found a potential plot? Don't buy it blindly. We provide expert Feasibility Studies to check access rights, boundary issues, local planning constraints and topography before you exchange contracts.

Let's find out what's possible on your target land.

📞 Call our studio: 0116 251 0606

Address

Regent House, 7 Upper King Street
Leicester
LE16XB

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	9am - 5:30pm
Thursday	9am - 5:30pm
Friday	9am - 5:30pm

Website

http://www.ds-a.co.uk/

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