ABL3 Architects, a long-standing architectural firm celebrated for its innovative and sensitive designs, has purchased the freehold of The Old Post Office at No. 6 Church Street. With plans to restore this historically significant building as their future headquarters, ABL3 Architects will transform the space into a vibrant office while maintaining its historic character and charm.
This acquisition marks a new chapter in a practice steeped in family heritage and community connection. Originally founded by Robert L. Adams as Robert L Adams Architects in 1991, the firm evolved into Adams + Collingwood Architects before taking on its current identity as ABL3 Architects. Now led by Tamsin Lemesle, Robert’s daughter, ABL3 is the third generation of the Adams family to practice architecture, a legacy begun by her grandparent architects, Beak and Cate Adams, who lived and worked locally in St. Peter’s Cottage during the 1990s and early 2000s.
ABL3 Architects is well-known for its expertise in residential and waterside architecture. Their impressive portfolio includes the family conversion of St. Peter’s Cottage, restorations at 1A and 16 Hammersmith Terrace, the Staithe House infill, and the Field House garden room. Further afield, the firm’s notable waterside projects include the timber award-winning house called The Boathouse on the Salcombe Estuary AOONB in Devon, as featured in Dezeen magazine, the School Boathouse at Bryanston School shortlisted for an RIBA Award, and the Salcombe Gin Distillery. Through such projects, ABL3 has built a reputation for delivering thoughtful, sustainable designs that harmonize with their environment.
As they transform The Old Post Office, ABL3 Architects will restore the shopfront to its original design, using it to exhibit objets d’art and architectural displays, a nod to the building’s history. The historic signboard will be repurposed to showcase the practice’s name, ensuring their presence is felt in the heart of the community. Interior renovations will be conducted with care, preserving the building’s unique character while creating an inspiring workspace for ABL3’s architectural team.
A listed building consent application for the restoration is forthcoming, ensuring that each detail adheres to heritage standards and reflects the firm’s dedication to conservation.
