Terra Firma Architecture

Terra Firma Architecture We are a small, RIBA-chartered architectural practice specialising in personal, bespoke architectural services tailored to every client and every site.

From concept to completion, we can create unique spaces that reflect your vision and needs.

Split, Croatia presents a rare case of architectural continuity, where Diocletian’s Palace - once a Roman imperial compl...
25/07/2025

Split, Croatia presents a rare case of architectural continuity, where Diocletian’s Palace - once a Roman imperial complex, has been absorbed into the everyday life of the city. Rather than preserved as a monument, its structure has been continuously adapted, with layers of vernacular intervention shaping courtyards, thresholds, and circulation. The result is a dense, lived-in urban fabric that blurs the line between heritage and habitation—offering architects a compelling model of resilience, adaptive reuse, and spatial evolution over time.

Restoring historic buildings isn’t just about preserving charm—it’s about working with the building, not against it.Too ...
01/07/2025

Restoring historic buildings isn’t just about preserving charm—it’s about working with the building, not against it.

Too often, modern materials trap moisture, leading to damp, decay, and discomfort. But traditional materials like lime render, timber, and breathable insulation allow the building fabric to breathe—just as it was designed to.

Terra Firma Architecture is now in the process of restoring this beautiful old farmhouse—carefully combining breathable materials with energy-efficient upgrades to bring comfort and longevity to this timeless structure.

Enjoyed the most wonderful day out at the woodland spa .bound Absolutely gorgeous 🤩
30/06/2025

Enjoyed the most wonderful day out at the woodland spa .bound
Absolutely gorgeous 🤩

Great to see steady progress on this beautiful courtyard barn conversion in the Norfolk countryside. The design focuses ...
13/04/2025

Great to see steady progress on this beautiful courtyard barn conversion in the Norfolk countryside. The design focuses on retaining original features while introducing modern touches to create a comfortable, high-end holiday home. The client is self-building with impressive dedication to quality and detail — a real credit to the vision behind the project.

Thatched cottages are an iconic feature of the Norfolk Broads, but restoring a Grade II listed property like The Gables ...
28/03/2025

Thatched cottages are an iconic feature of the Norfolk Broads, but restoring a Grade II listed property like The Gables in Martham comes with unique challenges—especially following a fire. As project architects, Terra Firma Architecture is carefully balancing historic preservation with modern needs while addressing the additional complexities of fire damage.

Rebuilding the thatched roof using traditional Norfolk reed is just one part of the process. Fire-damaged timber framing must be sensitively repaired, and structural integrity carefully assessed. Strict listing regulations mean every decision—from insulation to window replacements—must respect the building’s heritage. That’s why experienced architectural guidance is essential.

Beyond compliance, a thoughtful approach ensures The Gables is not only restored but enhanced for the future. Clever solutions, like breathable insulation and discreet glazing, will improve energy efficiency while maintaining its historic charm. This project isn’t just about rebuilding—it’s about safeguarding a piece of Norfolk’s heritage for generations to come.








Class Q Planning Changes, May 2025The transition period between old and new Permitted Development (PD) rights for barn c...
05/02/2025

Class Q Planning Changes, May 2025
The transition period between old and new Permitted Development (PD) rights for barn conversions is coming to an end. Here’s what’s changing:
- Old PD: Convert a barn into a single large dwelling.
- New PD: Convert a barn into multiple smaller dwellings (each max 150m²).

Key Considerations:
- Under Class Q, building work must be completed within 3 years
- Larger barn conversions are still possible but will require full planning permission

If you're unsure how this affects your project, contact us for a consultation tailored to your individual needs.

Back in 2017, Terra Firma Architecture achieved planning permission for a large new family home for a young couple wi...
30/01/2025



Back in 2017, Terra Firma Architecture achieved planning permission for a large new family home for a young couple with two children. We utilised the Replacement Dwelling in the Countryside policy to secure approval.

The approved scheme was taken to site by SA Architectural Services, while the Client herself designed the gorgeous interiors, creating a truly personal and stunning living space.

This planning route allows homeowners to replace existing rural dwellings with modern, energy-efficient homes while maintaining the character of the countryside. Key benefits include improved sustainability, enhanced property value, and a design tailored to modern living needs. If you're considering a replacement dwelling, expert guidance can help navigate the process smoothly. Get in touch to explore your options.

**Final note:** This beautiful property is now available for sale. You can find it here: [Rightmove Listing](https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/156364580 #/?channel=RES_BUY)

Absolutely fantastic day with the RIBAeast Small Practice Network visiting Gainsborough House. Thank you to our wonderfu...
23/01/2025

Absolutely fantastic day with the RIBAeast Small Practice Network visiting Gainsborough House.
Thank you to our wonderful host- project architect Angus Goodwin from award winning ZMMA architects.

Absolutely fantastic day with the Small Practice Network . Enjoying a much appreciated tour of by project architect An...
23/01/2025

Absolutely fantastic day with the Small Practice Network . Enjoying a much appreciated tour of by project architect Angus Goodwin from award winning .

Barn conversions in Norfolk offer a unique opportunity to create stunning, character-filled spaces, but navigating the p...
22/01/2025

Barn conversions in Norfolk offer a unique opportunity to create stunning, character-filled spaces, but navigating the process requires expertise. Terra Firma Architecture is here to guide you through every step, including:
* Planning Permissions: Understanding when full planning consent is required for your project.
* Permitted Development Rights (Class Q): Utilising Class Q rights for agricultural-to-residential conversions, ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria and limitations.
* Design & Services: Delivering tailored designs that balance modern living with traditional features, alongside a full range of complimentary architectural services.
Contact us to discuss your barn conversion project today!

Winter offers the perfect opportunity to prepare for renovations, extensions, or even new builds. Taking the time now to...
18/01/2025

Winter offers the perfect opportunity to prepare for renovations, extensions, or even new builds. Taking the time now to work with an architect allows you to:

- Explore and refine your ideas
- Develop tailored plans that suit your needs and your property
- Ensure all designs, permissions, and preparations are in place before the construction season begins.
By starting the planning process during the quieter months, you’ll be ready to move seamlessly into construction when the weather improves—making the most of the valuable building season.

At Terra Firma Architecture, we provide a personalised service, working closely with each client to ensure their vision is brought to life. Whether you’re re-imagining your existing space or embarking on a new build, we’re here to assist every step of the way.

Now is the time to take the first step. Contact us to discuss your project and start planning for the year ahead.

Only too often, old buildings are allowed to further deteriorate by leaving damaged brickwork exposed, permitting moistu...
16/01/2025

Only too often, old buildings are allowed to further deteriorate by leaving damaged brickwork exposed, permitting moisture to seep into the building structure.
This can lead to serious long-term issues.
Contact us to discuss best-practice repairs and how to preserve your property using the right materials and techniques.






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Great Yarmouth
NR294PQ

Opening Hours

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

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+441493748808

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