No Shortcuts: The Truth About Eco-Homes and Planning in England
by Sean Hill on Jan 9, 2025
At RISE, we believe in buildings that give more than they take. Homes that breathe. Structures that feel rooted to the landscape. Architecture that lifts the human spirit while treading lightly on the earth.
How to Choose a Builder Without Losing Sleep (or Your Budget)
by Sean Hill on Jan 9, 2025
A builder is more than a contractor. They’re your partner in realising a dream. Choose wisely, and you’re building more than bricks and mortar - you’re building trust.
Redefining the Modern Country House: The Art and Challenge of Paragraph 80
by Sean Hill on Dec 13, 2024
For those who dream of creating a one-of-a-kind home nestled in the quiet beauty of the countryside, Paragraph 80 offers a rare and exciting opportunity. This section of the UK’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is not just a policy - it’s an invitation to think differently, …
Navigating the New National Planning Policy Framework: Thoughts from Sean Ronnie Hill, Director of RISE Design Studio
by Sean Hill on Dec 13, 2024
The recent reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) are causing waves in the worlds of architecture, urban planning, and development. For someone like me - someone who’s dedicated their career to creating spaces where sustainability is a cornerstone - these changes are …
Aligning a Vision with a Digital Twin Before the First Brick
by Sean Hill on Dec 12, 2024
The Lexi Cinema is more than a building. It’s the beating heart of the Kensal Rise community. When RISE Design Studio was asked to extend its legacy, we knew it wouldn’t be just another architectural project. It was about creating a space that worked for everyone - funders, consultant …
Reimagining Semi-Detached House Extensions: Rules & Guidance
by Sean Hill on Dec 6, 2024
Semi-detached houses are more than just a staple of the UK housing landscape - they’re a symbol of potential. With almost one-third of the nation’s homes falling into this category, these properties hold untapped opportunities for transformation. A shared wall on one side and an open …
A Comprehensive Guide To Wraparound Extensions
by Sean Hill on Dec 4, 2024
RISE Design Studio | Extensions Wraparound extensions are a fantastic way to add valuable living space, bring in natural light, and enhance the aesthetics of your home. In this guide, we’ll explore the key benefits, types of wraparound extensions, and essential considerations for plan …
Crafting Stillness: Lessons from Casa Viggiano
by Sean Hill on Dec 3, 2024
In a quiet Swiss valley, where the alpine light filters through trees with effortless grace, an architectural whisper echoes through time. Casa Viggiano, designed in 1971 by Ivano Gianola, isn’t just a house - it’s a meditation in form. A structure that invites us, as architects, to t …
Casa Gomis: A Masterclass In Sustainable Architecture - Lessons From A 1960's Pioneer
by Sean Hill on Nov 29, 2024
A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting Casa Gomis with my friend and fellow architect Pera Buil of Vora, the Barcelona-based architectural studio. Also known as La Ricarda, this remarkable house near Barcelona offers a masterclass in sustainable architecture that remains sta …
Reimagining Cultural Spaces: Lessons from the Pandemic
by Sean Hill on Nov 27, 2024
The world of architecture, like so many other fields, has been profoundly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we've navigated through lockdowns, social distancing, and a heightened awareness of public health, the way we think about and design cultural spaces has undergone a signific …
