Domestic retrofit is about improving the fabric and systems of your home so it’s more comfortable, more efficient and ready for the future. Solent Architecture helps homeowners plan retrofit works in a logical, affordable way – not just bolt-on upgrades.
A home retrofit is a planned upgrade of your existing house to improve its energy performance, comfort and long-term resilience. Rather than just adding solar panels or changing the boiler, we look at the whole building – walls, roof, windows, ventilation and heating – and how they work together.
At Solent Architecture we design retrofit as a coherent plan, so each step supports the next rather than fighting against it.
Retrofit is an investment in the way your home feels every single day, not just a technical upgrade.
1.
A warmer, more comfortable home
No more cold corners, draughty halls or rooms you avoid in winter. A well-designed retrofit helps maintain even temperatures throughout the house and reduces cold surfaces where condensation can form.
2.
Lower and more predictable energy bills
Better insulation and airtightness mean your home loses less heat, so you need less energy to stay warm. Over time, this can significantly reduce your running costs and protect you against future energy price rises.
3.
A healthier indoor environment
Good ventilation is essential. When we retrofit, we design fresh air into the building, reducing moisture, mould growth and stale air. This supports better respiratory health and protects the fabric of your home.
4.
A smaller carbon footprint
Using less energy and moving toward low-carbon heating cuts your home’s CO₂ emissions. It’s one of the most direct climate actions you can take as a homeowner.
5.
A home that’s ready for the future
Standards for energy performance are rising, and buyers are increasingly aware of running costs. A thoughtful retrofit can improve your EPC rating and make your home more appealing in the market.
Retrofit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We break it down into clear, manageable stages.
1
Initial conversation
We start with a free, no-obligation call to understand your home, your priorities and your budget. You can also download our Home Retrofit Guide to get a feel for the overall journey.
2
Survey & assessment
We carry out a measured survey of your home and review any existing information (EPCs, bills, previous reports). We look at how the building is constructed, where it loses heat and where the main risks and opportunities lie.
3
Retrofit strategy & options
We develop a whole-house retrofit plan that sets out recommended measures, phasing, order of works, and high-level cost bands. We’ll talk through the options with you so you can decide what to tackle first.
4
Detailed design
For the agreed measures, we prepare the drawings, specifications and details needed for quotes, building control and construction. This includes junction details to reduce cold bridges and guidance on airtightness and ventilation.
5
Contractor selection & quotes
We can help you approach suitable contractors, review quotes and ensure that what’s being priced matches the retrofit strategy and design.
6
Support during construction
During the works we can offer site visits and advice to check key details are being installed as designed, helping to reduce performance gaps and defects.
7
Handover & next steps
At the end of the project we review what’s been achieved, and update your long-term plan so you know what the next steps are when you’re ready.
We look beyond single upgrades and design a joined-up plan that makes technical and financial sense over time.
Independent advice
We don’t sell products. Our role is to help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Design quality and practicality
We care about how your home looks and feels as much as how it performs. Retrofits should enhance your space, not compromise it.
Clear communication
We explain technical issues in plain language, with drawings and diagrams where helpful.
Local understanding
Experience with existing homes in the Solent and South Coast area, including typical construction types and planning considerations.
Is Home Retrofit Right for You?
Retrofit can work for many types of homes and budgets, but it’s especially suitable if:
Home Owner
You own an existing home you plan to stay in for several years
Cold House
Your house feels cold, draughty or suffers from condensation or mould
High Bills
Your energy bills feel high for the size of the property
Renovation
You’re planning other building works (extensions, loft conversions, new windows) and want to “get it right” at the same time
Environmental Impact
You care about reducing your environmental impact and want your home to reflect that
Common QuestionsAbout Home Retrofit
Do I have to do everything at once?
Costs vary widely depending on the size and condition of your home and the level of upgrade. During the strategy stage we provide indicative cost bands and help you prioritise measures that offer good value for money.
Is retrofit only for older houses?
Retrofit can improve most existing homes, from Victorian terraces to mid-century properties and more recent builds. The starting point and details will differ, but the principles are the same.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary widely depending on the size and condition of your home and the level of upgrade. During the strategy stage we provide indicative cost bands and help you prioritise measures that offer good value for money.
Can I still open windows if we install ventilation?
Yes. Mechanical ventilation is there to ensure a consistent level of fresh air and moisture control, not to stop you using your windows. It gives you a good baseline, whatever the weather.
Do you work with listed buildings or homes in conservation areas?
Yes, we can advise on sensitive retrofit strategies for heritage and character properties and guide you through relevant permissions where required.
Ready to Start Planning Your Retrofit?
Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or you already have a project in mind, our Home Retrofit Guide will help you understand the options and avoid common pitfalls.
