Thistle Architecture

Thistle Architecture: feasibility and conversion of existing buildings

Thistle Architecture is an architecture practice based in Winchester that operates across the UK and focuses on feasibility studies, the conversion and reuse of existing buildings. The firm presents itself as a developer-led practice, with direct experience in buying and transforming properties similar to those of its clients. It is part of the Thistle Group, alongside HMO Designers and HMO Checker.

The practice's approach starts with a question prior to design: whether the building can be converted into something more profitable. To answer it, it applies a data-driven analysis — planning history, regulations, comparables and viability — before issuing a professional judgement. The firm states it has delivered over 500 projects nationwide and has designed more than 350 HMO conversions.

Feasibility studies in five days

The main service is the feasibility study, offered at a fixed fee with a five-day response commitment. The process is structured in five steps:

• Property details upload: the client shares the address and basic details such as size, number of floors and current use. The form takes under two minutes to complete.
• Data gathering session: a call with Jodi, property specialist, to understand the client's goals and keep the five-day deadline on track.
• Automated analysis: the system reviews planning history, site constraints, density and comparable schemes in the area.
• Sketch scheme: a designer prepares an optimal layout analysis based on the brief, local comparables and regulatory constraints, seeking the best commercial outcome.
• Final meeting: after five days, the full feasibility is reviewed by video call so the client can bid, walk away or proceed with the sale with confidence.

If the outcome is favourable, the same team can continue with the project: planning, design, technical development, tender and construction.

Specialisation in conversions and HMOs

The practice covers several areas of specialisation: commercial-to-residential conversion, HMOs (houses in multiple occupation), co-living and large HMOs, and high-end mixed-use commercial and residential. Most projects involve testing and reusing existing structures rather than building from scratch.

Published project examples include the conversion of Regency offices in Royal Leamington Spa (Warwickshire) into four flats, and the transformation of a former bank in Cheddar (Somerset) into an eleven-bedroom HMO with a retail unit. A six-bedroom HMO in Croydon, south London, extended to thirteen, is also mentioned.

Digital tools for investors

The practice makes several online tools available to users: a Class MA (permitted development) checker, an apartment GDV calculator, an HMO valuation calculator and an HMO checker. These utilities allow investors to quickly assess a property's potential.

Team and experience

The team combines technical and commercial profiles. Edward Kercher, founder and director, sets the commercial and technical standard for every feasibility study, with experience in refurbishments from £50,000 to £20 million construction management. He founded the Thistle Group and holds a BA (Hons) in Architectural Technology and is an affiliate of CIAT.

Kaan Taskin, head of design and planning, leads every feasibility study from initial scheme to approval and heads the planning process across the practice. He joined Thistle in 2024 after five years in residential and HMO projects, and holds a BArch in Architecture.

Jan Kercher, interior designer, leads interior design across the group, producing mood boards, specifications and design packages for co-living, HMO and residential projects. She brings 25 years of experience in interior design, graphic design and brand management, with an HND in Design, and is a CIPD associate.

Adouj Abu Saadeh, architectural designer, brings international experience in Turkey, Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates. He holds a BA in Architecture from Bilkent University (High Honours, 2019) and is a LEED Green Associate.

Seyma Dilber, architectural designer, takes projects from initial survey through planning and technical stages, producing drawings and technical packages. She has six years of experience in residential and HMO projects, commercial measured surveys, design and planning in the UK, and holds a BSc in Architecture and an MA in Interior Design.

Beverley Gibbs, practice manager, handles administration and finance, with over 20 years of experience in practice management. Jodi Edgley, business developer, leads the first conversation of every feasibility study, gathering project details and understanding the client's commercial goals. She is a specialist in commercial-to-residential and HMO investment, with 10 years in estate agency and an NAEA qualification.

Client recognition

The practice's Trustpilot profile contains only five-star reviews. Comments highlight technical strength in planning applications, honesty in flagging risks and constraints, and the ability to manage complex conversions, such as transforming a hotel into a nine-bedroom HMO.

Location and contact

The Pump House, Garnier Road, Winchester, SO23 9QG · Phone: 0808 175 5405 · Email: hello@thistlearchitecture.co.uk