Projects
The architectural and historic importance of the Middle Street Deal Conservation Area has long been recognised. In 1968 it was the first Conservation Area in Kent to be designated and since that time the boundary has been extended three times. Its distinctive character is typified by the central axis of mainly Georgian terraced houses clustered around Middle Street, changing as you move towards Deal Castle, to grander Victorian villas. The entire area is covered by an Article 4 (2) Direction meaning all permitted development rights are removed and all work requires Planning Permission and /or Listed Building Consent. Valerie has extensive experience of working in Georgian buildings like those in Middle Street Conservation Area as she was previously retained by the Marquis of Tavistock and the Trustees of the Bedford estates, to refurbish and improve many grand, Listed houses in Russell, Bloomsbury and Bedford Squares. Valerie also previously held a Ministerial appointment to the Church Buildings Council managing a portfolio of Listed churches of national significance.
“Ivy House is a detached, 250-year-old Georgian house, which is Grade II Listed Building in Deal’s prestigious Middle Street Conservation Area. We appointed Valerie as our architect, to restore the house and transform it into a distinctive period home. Early in the project we discovered severe rot in the roof timbers and structural problems with the front elevation. These issues required skilful negotiation with Listed Building officers, and we were delighted when Valerie was able to secure the Consents, while simultaneously progressing construction work on site successfully. The project enabled us to create a sophisticated home within the existing Listed structure, which the whole family can enjoy. Ivy House was meticulously restored, blending contemporary colours and patterns with original Georgian features, and we were thrilled when it was featured in the June 2026 issue of ‘Period Living Magazine.’ Our project was a great success, and it was a pleasure working with Valerie.”
Case Study
Ivy House, College Road, Deal
Ivy House is an impressive Grade II listed Georgian house in the centre of Deal in the Middle Street Conservation Area. Le Vaillant Owen undertook comprehensive external repairs and restoration of the entire property and transformation of the interior into a beautiful contemporary new home whilst maintaining the original external appearance and historic character.
