Architectural innovation and heritage expertise secure transformative Durham PBSA for Howarth Litchfield

Image - courtesy of Howarth Litchfield - show the proposed development at dusk

Leading architecture practice, Durham-based Howarth Litchfield, has been appointed architect for Ward Group Investments’ (WGI) latest purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development, Hopper House, in Durham.

The multi-million-pound scheme recently received unanimous approval from Durham County Council’s planning committee who were appreciative of the consideration given to the gym, fitness room and large kitchen/living space for mixing and mingling in the transformative proposals as well as the additional fenestration to maximise the amount of daylight entering the building.

The development will transform the 18,000 sq. ft. Hopper House on Atherton Street - a "nondescript" 1980s office building that has stood vacant for over 12 years - into 45 high-spec, self-contained studio apartments.

Transformational vision

While the scheme has already garnered significant attention, the design was specifically commended by the Council’s planning department for its innovative approach to internal amenity and heritage sensitivity.

The planning department praised the proposed increase in window heights and the introduction of larger sash windows, which create a "lighter and more active" appearance to the elevations.

Furthermore, the thoughtful use of existing roof voids to create duplex apartments was a standout feature. By introducing contemporary dormer windows, Howarth Litchfield has transformed previously "landlocked" areas of the floor plate into sun-filled living spaces with long-range views of Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral.

Jonathan Yates, managing director of Howarth Litchfield and lead architect on the scheme, commented:

"We are delighted to have been appointed by Ward Group Investments for this landmark scheme. Our vision was to take a building regarded by the Council as 'neutral' and give it a new lease of life with a contemporary aesthetic that respects its sensitive location near the Grade II* listed railway viaduct.

“It’s our first time working with Ward Group and we are delighted with the way the design brief has put us through our paces to produce an innovative solution to maximise useable space. We have designed some amazing studios with great communal spaces to enhance the study experience in Durham. The building had many constraints, so it has taken significant remodelling of the roof space resulting in some exciting duplex units with feature dormers and skylights.”

The design for the transformation of Hopper House leveraged the practice's extensive experience in the student accommodation sector as well as its vast conservation architecture expertise. In this way the team unlocked the potential of the roof voids to create premium duplex units. Maximising daylight penetration was a central pillar of the design and a key factor in securing the positive backing of the planning department.

The development is a cornerstone of WGI’s strategic expansion in Durham City, enabling the firm to establish its new headquarters on the ground floor of the building.

Sustainability and Community

The repurposed building will be highly energy-efficient, featuring air source heat pumps and high-performance window designs. Beyond the 45 self-contained studio apartments, the scheme includes a naturally lit central amenity hub, a cinema room, a residents' gym and a south-facing landscaped study garden created from a former car park.

Leading the development day-to-day, WGI Director, Charlie Ward, added:

"The unanimous approval from the planning committee is a strong endorsement of the collaborative approach we took throughout the design development process. Working closely with Jonathan and his team has allowed us to deliver a sustainable development that supports the city’s demand for high-quality PBSA while bringing a prominent, long-vacant building back into productive use".

Andrew Ward, Chairman of WGI, and founder of the company in the early 2000s, said: "Ward Group Investments was built on a commitment to high-quality assets and purposeful growth. This project reflects our long-term dedication to Durham. By partnering with experts like Howarth Litchfield, who possess deep expertise in both student living and historically sensitive sites, we are ensuring that our developments offer a best-in-class experience for residents and the city alike".

Construction is scheduled to commence in early summer 2026 and will be delivered by group company, Viaduct Residences.

Other members of the professional team include planning consultants, Lichfield; Kinetic Consultants; structural engineers, BDN; Innovation Fire Engineering; transport planning consultants, Andrew Mosely Associates; and independent construction consultancy, Consult North.