Refurbishment & Retrofit

Revitalising buildings. Improving everyday life.

Creating warmer, more efficient spaces and securing a lasting future for existing buildings.

BTP gives existing buildings a better future. From PAS 2035 retrofit and residential refurbishment to estate regeneration and the sensitive reuse of historic buildings, we improve performance, comfort and aesthetics while extending building life.

As a TrustMark-registered retrofit consultancy, our in-house PAS 2035 specialists take a coordinated, whole-building approach. We help housing providers and local authorities reduce energy demand, tackle fuel poverty and deliver funded retrofit programmes without creating unintended consequences.  Over the last year we helped to improve 3,000+ homes through retrofit works.

Our experience ranges from improvements across Rochdale’s Lower Falinge Estate and retrofit works to more than 400 Torus homes, to the refurbishment and repurposing of significant historic buildings.

By bringing together architectural, conservation, energy and building-safety expertise, we develop practical solutions shaped around each building, its occupants and its long-term use.

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    Director

    Manuel Atkinson

    BA (Hons), M.Arch, ARB, RIBA, Dip.DEA

    Director

    Manuel Atkinson

    BA (Hons), M.Arch, ARB, RIBA, Dip.DEA

    I joined BTP in 2008, qualified as an Architect in 2013, and progressed to Director in 2017. Over my career, I’ve built extensive expertise across the full range of design criteria for housing, later living, and care environments, including HQI, DQS, Lifetime Homes, HAPPI, NDSS, and Building Regulations accessibility standards.

    Sustainability is a core part of my professional focus. I am an accredited Energy Assessor for both new-build and existing homes (OCDEA / DEA) as well as a certified Home Quality Mark Assessor and PAS2035 Retrofit Designer / Assessor. Within BTP, I lead many of our sustainability initiatives; developing strategies to help clients realise their ambitions, meet zero-carbon targets, and align with the Future Homes Standard.

    Since 2013, I have also played a key role in enhancing BTP’s BIM (Building Information Modelling) capability. I have achieved multiple BRE qualifications, including ISO 19650 accreditation, enabling me to manage BIM processes and workflows effectively across our projects.

    In 2024, I joined the RIBA Principal Designer Register, gaining Principal Designer status with High‑Risk Building (HRB) expertise for both CDM and Building Regulations following rigorous training and examination. I now act as Building Regulations Principal Designer across a range of new‑build and refurbishment schemes, providing trusted guidance to clients and development teams.

    My advanced knowledge of BIM, sustainability, and the Building Safety Act also sees me deliver regular training, CPD sessions, and workshops for Registered Providers and contractors.

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    Architectural Technician

    Ethan Tayler

    BSc(Hons)

    Architectural Technician

    Ethan Tayler

    BSc(Hons)

    I joined BTP Architects straight from University in mid-2023 as an Architectural Technician. Since then, I’ve developed my skills in Revit, project management and technical design, alongside a growing understanding of Building Regulations and industry guidance.

    Having been thrust into many different projects, I’ve gained wide sector experience including large-scale retrofit, social housing and accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, refurbishment and luxury new-build homes. This experience has sparked a particular interest in site planning.

    Outside work, I enjoy playing padel with colleagues, football and the occasional attempt at golf. I’m also a Liverpool FC supporter and like to unwind playing video games.

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    Architect

    Oli Martin

    BA(Hons), M.Arch, ARB

    Architect

    Oli Martin

    BA(Hons), M.Arch, ARB

    I am an ARB-registered Architect at BTP Architects, primarily working on new-build residential, social housing and extra-care projects. I hold a BA (Hons) and M.Arch from Liverpool John Moores University and joined BTP in 2022, qualifying as an architect in 2024.

    My approach is grounded in clarity, proportion and considered design. I am interested in housing that is composed and enduring, architecture that prioritises long-term value and resident wellbeing over fashion or novelty. For me, good residential design is measured, durable and carefully integrated within its wider community.

    I am developing in the role of Project Architect and have particular strength in drawing and technical coordination across all RIBA stages. I enjoy the analytical side of projects, testing layouts, refining detail and working through complex requirements to arrive at clear, buildable solutions that respond to both client and community needs. I have also begun contributing to projects involving Higher Risk Buildings, engaging with the evolving regulatory framework and its implications for residential design.

    Outside of practice, I enjoy spending time with my family, travelling and listening to podcasts focused on history, politics and wellbeing. I am also a lifelong supporter of Liverpool F.C.