About

Roger Joyce Associates

Conservation Architects in Folkestone, Kent

For more than six decades, our architects have been dedicated to the careful conservation, repair and adaptation of historic buildings across Kent and the South East. Based in Folkestone, we are specialist conservation architects with deep expertise in ecclesiastical architecture, listed buildings and heritage-led design. Our practice combines architectural knowledge, technical precision and a genuine respect for historic fabric — ensuring that every project safeguards the past while preparing buildings for the future.

Founded in 1977 by Roger Joyce, the practice was established on a clear principle: historic buildings deserve architects who understand their significance, materials and cultural value. Today, that ethos continues to define our work. From quinquennial inspections and statutory surveys to listed building extensions and church conversions, we provide clear, informed architectural guidance at every stage.

Our Heritage and Experience

Roger Joyce brought exceptional expertise to the practice from the outset. A graduate of the Canterbury School of Architecture, he later completed a Diploma in Conservation at the Architectural Association, focusing his thesis on the re-use of redundant churches. As a Diocesan Approved Architect serving the Canterbury and Rochester dioceses, he has inspected and repaired hundreds of churches, shaping a career defined by stewardship and careful conservation.

Across our history, we have restored more than 250 churches, completed over 500 surveys, and supported projects across 40 dioceses. This breadth of experience enables us to approach every building — whether a Grade II* listed manor house or a medieval parish church — with confidence and authority.

Specialist Conservation Architects in Kent

As conservation architects in Folkestone, Kent, we provide a full range of heritage architectural services, including:

  • Heritage Planning & Listed Building Consent – Navigating conservation area policies, statutory requirements and DAC procedures with clarity and precision.

  • Quinquennial Inspections & Statutory Surveys – Comprehensive five-year inspections for Church of England buildings, assessing structure, fabric and repair priorities.

  • Conservation Repair & Restoration – Sensitive repair strategies using traditional materials and craft techniques.

  • Church Reordering & Conversion – Enabling liturgical flexibility or transforming redundant churches into distinctive homes while respecting sacred heritage.

  • Listed Building Extensions & Adaptations – Thoughtful architectural interventions that complement historic character.

  • Sustainable Heritage Design – Integrating energy-efficient solutions into historic buildings without compromising significance.

Our work extends across Kent, including Folkestone and the Kent coast, as well as projects throughout the South East.

Our Architectural Approach

Every project begins with understanding. We undertake detailed historical research, archival study and building analysis to fully appreciate a structure’s evolution and architectural significance. This informed foundation allows us to design interventions that are proportionate, appropriate and sympathetic.

We champion traditional craftsmanship, collaborating with skilled specialists in stonework, leadwork, stained glass and historic joinery. Authentic materials and time-honoured techniques remain central to our conservation philosophy.

At the heart of our work is a principle of sensitive intervention. We follow a minimum-intervention approach wherever possible, ensuring that original architectural character is preserved and that new additions are clearly defined yet harmonious.

Bringing Historic Buildings into Contemporary Use

Historic buildings must evolve to survive. Whether adapting a listed property for modern family living, converting a chapel into a home, or reordering a church interior for contemporary worship, we balance conservation integrity with practical design solutions. Our architects understand how to unlock the potential of heritage assets while meeting current building regulations, sustainability goals and client aspirations.

Projects such as Grade II* listed Barham Mews and the restoration of St. Mary the Virgin’s 15th-century chancel demonstrate our ability to combine conservation expertise with creative design thinking.

Professional Standards and Affiliations

Our practice maintains the highest professional standards. We are registered with the Architects Registration Board and are members of the Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association and the Institute of Historic Building Conservation. These affiliations reflect our commitment to best practice in architectural conservation.

A Legacy of Stewardship

Established in 1972 and rooted in Folkestone, our architects continue to provide dedicated support for churches, listed buildings and heritage properties throughout Kent and the South East. With over 60 years of combined expertise, we remain committed to thoughtful design, careful stewardship and the enduring value of historic architecture.

If you are seeking experienced conservation architects in Kent, we would be pleased to discuss your heritage project.