Ashwood Design Associates were appointed as lead architects for the sensitive conversion of Paternoster Row, a Grade II listed building located within the Cathedral precinct and Carlisle city center conservation area. Architects in Carlisle are renowned for their ability to handle such delicate projects. Previously used as offices, the building had become underutilized and was in need of investment to safeguard its long-term future.
Our design proposal will bring this important heritage asset back into active use through a mixed-use development that includes:
- Three individually designed residential dwellings
- A café and bakery with outdoor seating and private dining space
- A flexible commercial or retail unit adaptable to future occupiers
The team carefully developed this scheme to preserve the building’s historic character while contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Carlisle’s Market Square and Cathedral Quarter.
Design Approach
Working closely with our clients, our design team produced a concept that balances heritage sensitivity with modern usability. The architects in Carlisle took care to ensure the proposals respect the building’s original fabric, retaining stone façades, timber detailing, and internal features. While introducing thoughtful interventions that enhance functionality and accessibility.
A key part of the design process was flexibility and future-proofing. The ground floor was reorganized to create a clear distinction between public café areas and private amenity spaces. The rear portion of the property will form a contemporary urban retreat for the owners, while the front accommodates a light-filled café/bakery, encouraging footfall and activating the street frontage.
Externally, works are minimal and sympathetic:
- Roof and rainwater goods repaired to extend lifespan
- New timber courtyard gate for improved security and appearance
- Subtle signage, lighting, and planting to draw visitors in while maintaining the building’s heritage character
Conservation and Heritage Significance
Paternoster Row sits within the historic core of Carlisle, immediately adjacent to Carlisle Cathedral. The surrounding streetscape has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century, making it one of the city’s most important heritage settings.
Our proposals have been developed in line with national and local heritage conservation policies, ensuring that all works preserve and enhance the building’s architectural significance. Architects practicing in Carlisle have ensured that materials, joinery profiles, and finishes have been specified to match traditional details wherever possible, while new insertions are clearly contemporary yet sympathetic to context.
Impact and Community Benefit
This project aligns with Carlisle City Council’s regeneration strategy, supporting the growth of a vibrant mixed-use city center. By combining residential, commercial, and cultural uses, the scheme will:
- Re-activate a long-vacant listed property
- Create employment opportunities within the Cathedral Quarter
- Attract visitors through high-quality local food and retail offerings
- Enhance the character and economic vitality of the Market Square area
