Cara De Angelis
RIBA Conservation Lead Architect

Cara is AJA's Conservation Lead and a RIBA Conservation Architect, specialising in the sensitive repair, adaptation and reuse of historic buildings. She is passionate about protecting our shared heritage while finding creative ways for historic places to continue serving modern communities and future generations.

With experience gained within specialist conservation practices early in her career, Cara has worked on projects involving buildings of significant heritage value, developing a deep understanding of traditional construction, conservation principles and the challenges involved in adapting historic buildings for contemporary use.

Clients value Cara's passion, knowledge and ability to balance the importance of historic fabric with the practical needs of today's buildings. She understands that successful conservation is not simply about preserving the past, but about carefully evolving buildings so they remain relevant, sustainable and useful. Her expertise is applied across a wide range of building types, from listed buildings and heritage assets to community, commercial, cultural and residential projects.

Cara is particularly passionate about the adaptive reuse of historic and underused buildings, helping clients unlock the potential of challenging sites while retaining the character and significance that makes them special. She enjoys finding creative solutions where conservation, sustainability, accessibility and modern expectations need to work together.

Collaboration is central to Cara's approach. She thrives in working with clients, consultants, craftspeople and communities, believing that the best conservation projects come from a shared understanding of the building's history, significance and future potential.

One building that has particularly influenced Cara is the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome. Originally constructed as a Roman bathhouse around 300 AD before being transformed into a basilica in the 16th century, it represents the powerful relationship between history, adaptation and architectural creativity.

Outside of architecture, Cara enjoys an active and family-focused life. She is involved with her local squash club, supporting her two teenage sons in their sporting pursuits while also playing herself. She enjoys running and spends much of the warmer months tending her allotment.

Planning a listed building project, heritage restoration or adaptive reuse scheme? Cara and the AJA team provide conservation expertise that helps clients protect historic buildings while creating places that work for modern life.