Our change of use projects focus on transforming existing buildings into spaces that serve a new purpose. We help clients unlock the full potential of their properties by creating designs that are practical, compliant, and visually strong.
XO Dental occupies the former Fulwood Art Gallery at 85 Watling Street Road, Fulwood, Preston, within the Fulwood Conservation Area. The project involved adapting an existing building for modern dental use, requiring a sensitive balance between contemporary healthcare requirements and the architectural character of its surroundings. Studio FRI was appointed to provide planning and architectural services, guiding the project through assessment, submission and approval. In 2024, Studio FRI prepared and submitted the planning application that secured full planning permission
Just Padel Preston is Lancashire’s first dedicated indoor padel tennis facility and the founding project in what has since become the North West’s leading padel portfolio. Located within a prominent city centre building on Corporation Street, the scheme established a new sporting typology for Preston, introducing year-round indoor padel to the city for the first time.
Studio FRI has acted as lead architectural and planning consultant to Just Padel since inception, providing the strategic planning insight and architectural leadership that has supported the brand’s expansion across Preston, Bolton and Blackpool.
Studio FRI secured full planning permission for Bolton’s first indoor padel facility at Unit 2A, Bolton Central Business Park, Nelson Street (BL3 2JJ). Delivered for Just Padel, the North West’s leading padel operator, the scheme reimagines a long-vacant industrial unit, formerly within Use Class B2/B8, as a refined and contemporary leisure destination under Use Class E(d). The development introduces five premium indoor padel courts alongside a carefully considered reception and lounge environment with full changing and shower facilities.
Just Padel Blackpool represents a defining moment for sport and leisure provision on the Fylde Coast, introducing the town’s first purpose-designed indoor padel tennis facility. Delivered through a close partnership between Just Padel – the North West’s leading indoor padel operator – and Studio FRI, the project reflects a shared commitment to high-quality design, strategic planning, and long-term community value. Located at Unit 1C, Squires Gate Industrial Estate, within Blackpool’s Enterprise Zone, the scheme transforms a vacant industrial unit into a modern, fully serviced indoor leisure destination.