Historic buildings form a large part of a nation's heritage. Many are still used for their original purpose, such as theatres, churches, stately homes and railway termini. It is often possible to considerably improve the overall quality of illumination and create a visually dramatic expression of the architecture, by the sensitive application of modern lighting technology, without compromising the original character of the building.

There are also many historic buildings where the use has completely changed and the functional requirements of the new will probably outweigh the needs of the old. As might be the case when a redundant building is transformed for an entirely different use such as an art gallery or restaurant. Once the decision has been made to use the building in a new way, it should be possible to retain the original integrity of the building, whilst fully satisfying the needs of the future.

Lighting solutions for historic buildings can often demand additional levels of ingenuity. Careful consideration must be given to the selection of appropriately styled luminaires, their method of fixing, and cable supply routes, to ensure that there is minimal damage to the fabric of the building.

dpa have a high level of expertise in the lighting of historic buildings and of liaising with English Heritage, Historic Scotland, CADW and other Planning Authorities.