Expanding Horizons: A New Chapter in Architectural Excellence
Paul Channing • 23 August 2025
We're excited to share some significant updates in the BluePrint Architectural Workshop journey, showcasing how expertise can thrive across multiple platforms.
A Strategic Partnership Develops
Starting 1st September, our Director, Christina Channing, will undertake an innovative dual-role position, joining the accomplished team at Kensington Taylor Architects (KTA) on a part-time basis while continuing her responsibilities as a director at BluePrint Architectural Workshop.
This strategic move signifies more than career progression—it's a reflection of the increasing demand for specialised BIM expertise in today's architectural field. Christina will bring her extensive Building Information Modelling skills to support KTA's innovative projects, while also maintaining her dedication to our heritage and contemporary work at BluePrint.
The Power of Dual Expertise
After 25 years shaping the South West's architectural scene, this arrangement allows Christina to maximise her impact as a BIM specialist across two exceptional practices. The strength of this partnership lies in its mutual benefits: KTA gains access to proven expertise, and BluePrint continues to benefit from Christina's directorial influence and technical skill.
For our clients, this means access to broader expertise and advanced BIM capabilities that improve project delivery in heritage conservation as well as modern architectural challenges.
Looking Forward
The industry continues to evolve, with advanced BIM skills becoming essential for project success. This dual arrangement positions both practices as leaders in these developments, fostering collaboration across various project types and scales.
As we progress, we look forward to the new perspectives this partnership will bring to BluePrint, as well as its contribution to the innovative projects at KTA. It exemplifies how strategic collaboration can elevate the architectural profession.
Here's to embracing new challenges, exciting projects, and the ongoing pursuit of architectural excellence across both practices!

🏊♂️🚗 When heritage meets horsepower! The Rolling Stone article's mention of Keith Moon, The Who's legendarily wild drummer, struck a particular chord with us here at BluePrint Architectural Workshop. You see, our very own Paul Channing currently wields drumsticks with Levens Four, Plymouth's own purveyors of classic 60s-70s rock.

As we approach the eagerly anticipated reopening of Tinside Lido next week, we're proud to share the culmination of our careful restoration work on this iconic Grade II-listed Art Deco landmark. Built in 1935, this beloved Plymouth institution has stood against nine decades of challenging maritime conditions, making its restoration both complex and crucial.
The Market Hall in Newton Abbot stands as a testament to the town's vibrant commercial heritage. As specialists in listed buildings and heritage properties, BluePrint Architectural Workshop is proud to be part of this significant restoration project, working alongside Teignbridge District Council, LHC Architects, and AECOM. The Challenge: Balancing History with Modern Needs Historic market halls present unique challenges. Years of ad hoc modifications, varying maintenance approaches, and the natural wear of time had left their mark on this 19th-century landmark. Our initial dilapidation surveys revealed several critical issues: Inappropriate modern alterations that compromised the building's historical integrity. Structural concerns requiring specialist attention. Complex compliance requirements for modern safety standards. The need to maintain the building's commercial viability while preserving its heritage. Our Approach: Expertise in Action Drawing upon our 99% success rate with listed building consent applications, we developed a comprehensive strategy that addressed both preservation and practical needs: 1. Detailed Documentation: Our thorough dilapidation surveys mapped every historical feature requiring attention, creating a precise blueprint for restoration. 2. Strategic Planning: We crafted detailed repair information that satisfied both conservation requirements and modern building standards. 3. Consent Navigation: Our expertise in heritage projects proved invaluable in securing the necessary planning and listed building consents, ensuring all stakeholders' requirements were met. The Solution: Restoring Authenticity Our restoration plan focuses on: Removing unsympathetic modern alterations. Reinstating original architectural features. Implementing repairs that respect traditional building methods. Ensuring the building meets contemporary requirements while maintaining its historic character. Progress Update Construction has commenced, marking an exciting phase in the Market Hall's journey. As we progress, we uncover and document historical features hidden for generations, adding to our understanding of this important building's heritage. Looking Forward This project exemplifies our commitment to preserving Devon's architectural heritage while ensuring these buildings remain viable for future generations. We'll be sharing regular updates on social media as this exciting project progresses, documenting each step of returning this cherished landmark to its former glory while preparing it for its next chapter.

Traditional joinery often presents complex challenges when it comes to listed buildings in Devon and Cornwall. Our recent Grade II listed project at Rosemount in Ipplepen offers valuable insights into how specialist intervention can deliver authentic solutions whilst improving comfort and efficiency.

Are you contemplating investing in a listed building or planning modifications to your heritage property? Our comprehensive Investment Guide is designed to help you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities these special buildings present. Why We Created This Guide There are over 500,000 listed buildings in the UK, each telling a unique story of our architectural heritage. However, owning or developing these properties requires specialist knowledge and careful consideration. Drawing on our extensive experience in the South West, we've created this guide to help you make informed decisions about your heritage property investment. What You'll Discover Our Investment Guide covers essential aspects of heritage property development: Understanding listed building significance. Navigating the planning process. Balancing conservation with modern comfort. Sustainable approaches to heritage buildings. Cost considerations and value enhancement. Real-world case studies from our portfolio. Making Heritage Work for You Through carefully selected case studies, we demonstrate how thoughtful architectural intervention can: - Preserve historic character while meeting modern needs - Add value through sensitive design - Improve energy efficiency without compromising heritage - Create comfortable, practical living spaces Expert Guidance As specialists in listed buildings and sensitive sites, we understand the complexities of heritage property development. Our guide reflects our commitment to helping property owners make informed decisions about their investments. Get Your Copy To receive your complimentary copy of our Investment Guide, click here .

Plymouth's iconic Tinside Lido, one of Britain's finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the South West, is undergoing a transformative £4.5 million conservation project. As heritage building specialists at BluePrint Architectural Workshop, we're proud to play a crucial role in preserving this Grade II listed landmark for future generations of Devon and Cornwall residents.

A remarkable transformation has taken place in the heart of Penzance. A once-derelict Grade II-listed reservoir has been given a new lease on life as the Penzance Creative Cluster, now known as Pixel. This innovative project, which I had the privilege of working on during my time at Stride Treglown, showcases an exciting blend of conservation and modern design.

A Monumental Challenge In the heart of Plymouth's historic Devonport area, a piece of naval history recently faced an unexpected setback. The late 18th-century Grade II-listed gateway to South Yard, a testament to Devonport's rich maritime heritage, was accidentally toppled in a traffic incident. As conservation architects, we were given a unique opportunity to piece together this architectural puzzle and breathe new life into a cherished local landmark.

A Gem in Cornwall's Crown Nestled in the picturesque town of Padstow, Cornwall, Cove Cottage stands as a testament to the region's rich architectural heritage. This Grade II listed property, dating back to the early 18th century, embodies the charm and character that make Padstow a beloved destination.

Heating large buildings doesn’t have to cost the earth In the heart of Plymouth, a groundbreaking project is setting new standards for sustainable energy in historic settings. BluePrint had the privilege of working with the University of Plymouth to secure listed building consent for an innovative water source heat pump at Drake's Reservoir.

We're thrilled to announce that BluePrint has recently achieved the notable milestone of becoming a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Practice! This achievement demonstrates our enduring commitment to providing the highest quality professional architectural services, upholding the highest ethical and best practice standards in the field. As a RIBA Chartered Practice, we will continue to build upon and deliver innovative architectural solutions for our clients. Becoming a RIBA Chartered Practice signifies our growth and evolution as a specialist architecture firm. We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead as an RIBA Chartered Practice.