Our client owned a large 743m2 barn which they wanted to convert into individual dwellings. The previous owners had applied for planning consent a number of times for replacement of the barn with a small housing development – all of which had unfortunately failed as they did not take into account the planning policy restrictions. The client understood some of the changes in planning policy in relation to barn conversion and wanted us to take on the design and planning of the project. We advised that conversion was indeed the best route forward but with some imagination, it might be possible to create separate, attractive houses through conversion with the following specification:
Meticulous planning
Our vast experience of barn conversions and with the local authority, as well as taking into account the complex history of the site meant we understood how to approach the planning procedure to maximise the chances of success.
We therefore took a two-step approach:
Considerate design
In order to avoid imposing on surrounding properties, features of the project were designed to maximise privacy and limit the impact on nearby residences. We understood the appropriate aesthetics to achieve this and the planners were particularly impressed with the addition of double height elements, mezzanine levels and additional external space which maximised windows and light without unacceptable overlooking of neighbouring homes.
Planners also commented on our sensitive use of materials such as hit and miss timbers (which allow air and light flow while maintaining privacy) to screen upper floor windows which they also felt ‘…provides a subtle appreciation of the agricultural character of the surroundings and prevents the building appearing too urban.’
Overall, they commented, ‘The design of the proposal is of a high quality and is a significant improvement compared with the approved Stage 1 Class Q prior approval. The building would sit appropriately within its context and provide a subtly modern design approach to the conversion of the building.’
On budget
The client was keen to limit costs whilst obtaining the best value residential units for a complex site in close proximity to neighbouring properties. The design and materials are in many ways simple and straightforward. Careful division of the building with the demolished sections, courtyard gardens and screening between units has created interest and a premium feel to the proposed new homes.
As a large agricultural building, pushed up against neighbouring properties, we had to take a very considered approach to this project in order to not only deliver on the client’s requirements, but also satisfy the planners. This has been achieved through the careful design.
“The design and planning of this project required a lot of careful consideration but thanks to our experience of work with complex sites, we knew the steps needed to create a successful design with the best chance of being approved.
“Despite the constraints of the site, we came up with stunning designs for the properties including some special touches to maximise light and privacy. We’re delighted that the planners were as impressed with the designs as the client, meaning that planning permission was granted.”
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