Orange Key Architectural Design Studio

Renovations & Conversions in Berkshire & Oxfordshire

Reworking and adapting existing buildings — from internal remodels to garage, basement and barn conversions — with the drawings and approvals handled in-house.

The Coach House · Gerrards Cross

Renovation and conversion projects adapt an existing building to suit modern living — often the most effective way to transform a home without moving. Orange Key works on renovation and conversion projects across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, from Reading and Newbury to Oxford and Abingdon.

As part of our architectural design service, we develop proposals that make significant improvements to how a building works while respecting the character of the existing structure — then prepare the drawings needed to secure approvals and build.

Improving existing buildings

Renovations often mean rethinking how internal spaces are used — removing walls, reconfiguring layouts and improving the connection between rooms and the garden. Careful design can make a real difference to how a home functions while retaining what makes it distinctive.

Converting existing spaces

Conversions bring under-used space back into everyday use. Projects we design include:

  • Garage conversions — turning an integral or attached garage into living space
  • Basement conversions — creating usable rooms below ground
  • Barn conversions — sensitive reuse of rural and outbuilding structures
  • Change of use — adapting a building for a different purpose

These projects often need close coordination with structural engineers and other consultants to make sure the existing building can accommodate the changes.

Planning & technical design

Many renovation and conversion projects require planning permission or building regulations approval, and often both. We prepare the planning permission drawings and the detailed building regulations drawings, taking the project from concept design through to construction.

Project · Gerrards Cross

“At The Coach House we designed a sensitive conversion and extension, blending period character with modern family living.”

The Coach House — a conversion project by Orange Key

Projects across Berkshire & Oxfordshire

We work on renovation and conversion projects throughout both counties, drawing on our familiarity with the local planning authorities. See the areas we cover across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, or get in touch to discuss your project.

Common questions

Renovation & conversion FAQs

Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?

Converting an integral or attached garage into living space often falls within permitted development, provided the work is internal and the footprint isn't changed. Some properties and conservation areas need planning permission — we assess the route and prepare the drawings required.

Do I need planning permission for a barn conversion?

Barn conversions usually require planning permission, or may be possible under Class Q permitted development rights in some cases. The route depends on the building and its location, and we advise on the most appropriate approach.

Do renovation and conversion projects need building regulations approval?

Most conversion and structural renovation work requires building regulations approval — structure, insulation, ventilation and fire safety. We prepare the building regulations drawings and coordinate with a structural engineer where needed.

What is a change of use application?

A change of use application seeks planning consent to use a building for a different purpose — for example converting a commercial building to residential. We prepare the drawings and information required to support it.

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Thinking about a renovation or conversion?

Tell us about your property in Berkshire or Oxfordshire and what you'd like to achieve — we'd be happy to talk it through.

01865 578931