Experience

We have a high level of expertise in planning applications and deep understanding of local authority requirements when it comes to barn conversions, new builds and the extension and alteration of existing homes.

We are seasoned in architectural design, working across heritage, conservation and AONB contexts, sensitive to what’s required to balance preservation and the needs of a modern home.

Once planning is complete, we enjoy seeing those plans through to completion with you, becoming your build partner for every brick, window and interior fit-out, right through to handing you the keys – a moment we never forget!

Design and Build – all under one roof

We’ve been designing and building homes for many years – our team spans a few different decades, so our expertise is wide and varied.

And that’s the difference with Vernacular Homes – we don’t just design, we build too, so we know that the designs we are creating can be turned into reality.

We know the timescales, the costs, if it’s what a client wants and has a budget for.

Along with extensions, renovations, restorations and new builds, we are specialists in barn conversions – having transformed a wide range over the years from disused storage sheds, falling down structures and neglected buildings, into beautiful new homes designed to last for many more years to come.

Conversion projects come with their own challenges, but we are highly experienced in what old buildings hide, what they require to be developed, and in dealing with everything from planning requirements to bats in the roof. 

Planning is the key to a smooth build and we take our time to leave no stone unturned before we build your new home with you.

Look through the projects that we have planned, designed and built. 

“The planned basement was the most expensive part of the build, so they suggested scrapping that idea and going up into the roof instead, and so they changed the design and planning for us. They gave us lots of choices and great advice. We always felt reassured by them and that we were being given direction and help.”
Read more about this new build project in East Kent

Survey

Before we can design, we need to measure up and we do this using digital technology called Matterport that scans the site or old barn, giving us a digital twin or clone.

From this, we know exactly what space we have to design within, plus what walls, structure or windows to build around and into.

It means we can only design what the structure or space allows – and can try different options to explore various ideas, layouts and concepts.

“Vernacular Homes took care of everything from planning to design and construction. The whole team would walk through the space to see how best to use it. They were great at coming up with ideas for maximising space; for example, we had an odd-shaped living room but they came up with some great ways of dividing it up to make it work.”
Read more about this project here – an extension to an Oast house in West Kent

Design

Step into our design room and join us to see your ideas and our designs come to life. We’ll show you options for everything, from layout to window position and size, elevation, storeys, basements, and even aspect.

The beauty of how we work is that you can try it all out first – you might have a burning design idea but when you see it you either love it or hate it…but not a single brick has been laid or wasted while you change your mind.

We can also show you some of our ideas – we’ve worked with many clients to tweak theirs, giving them a better layout that really does make more use of the space and create a way of living they might not have thought of.

“The planned basement was the most expensive part of the build, so they suggested scrapping that idea and going up into the roof instead, and so they changed the design and planning for us. They gave us lots of choices and great advice. We always felt reassured by them and that we were being given direction and help”
Read more about this new build project in East Kent

3D design

Our clients are able to walk around their new home before it’s event built.

How?

Through virtual reality software – we use EnScape to immerse them into their design, allowing them to really feel the flow of the house.

If they walk into the hallway and want a larger window, we can add one to see how it looks, feels and also find out what it adds in terms of time and cost.

Our 3D design software allows us to provide accurate and early costings which are clear for everyone.
This level of detail allows a smoother handover from design to construction stage and with any issues, queries, concerns or problems already overcome, the build stage can gather swift momentum.

Our clients really do enjoy this part of the design process and so do we – showing them round what will soon be their new home.
They can take it home and start to show their friends and family too.

“They started out by asking us to focus on our top three requirements – lots of light, a more open feeling, and to connect to the barn on two levels. We really liked that although they had lots of suggestions, they were very open to our ideas and listened to what we wanted; we didn’t feel like we had a big flashy architect telling us what to do – it felt very collaborative.”
Read more about this West Kent extension & renovation

Take a look at the virtual tour of the plans we created for our client who wanted to convert their barn into four separate beautiful homes.

Get in touch so we can create your plans or revise and resubmit with you.
If you are planning a barn conversion, ask us for help to design and cost before you buy or decide to convert
Take a look at all of our projects that we have planned, designed and built.

New planning permission

We really enjoy working with our clients from the beginning of their home building dream, enabling that vision to be fulfilled through carefully developed designs.

Our expertise will save you time and money – we are adept at devising planning designs that meet the local authority criteria; but which don’t compromise on your vision.

Existing planning permission

You may have an existing planning permission with your home – it might be yours from a while ago or it may have been inherited with the property. It might not be quite what you want, so we can work with you to develop those designs to better meet your brief and improve on the consent you already have.

Replacement dwelling design and planning

Local authorities support replacement dwellings and for many clients, they are a better solution than refurbishing an inadequate existing building. Replacement dwellings allow us to build a home which works much better than any refurbishment could hope to achieve, arriving at a modern, efficient and high quality home.

• A better home can be built
• A good increase in the size of the home is usually possible
• Layout can better suit your needs
• Efficiency improved
• Sustainability achieved
• A more reliable home – all will be new

We work across heritage, conservation areas and AONB locations – understanding the requirements of what will be needed for the planning application and providing that extra level of thought and consideration.

Failed planning permission

Sometimes, a little more understanding of local authority planning policy, together with imaginative design solutions are needed to see your plans passed and see you ready to start building.

We’ve worked with many clients to revise and develop failed applications to breathe life back into them and achieve the desired result without significant compromises.

We work accurately and honestly – we’ll be up front with you on the planning prospects of a scheme.

Contact our planning team to discuss your project.

Talk to us about your planning application…
Read about previous projects
Find out how we revised plans to create a home that worked for this client’s new build

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. What is involved in a planning application for a new home or renovation? 

We handle the entire planning process, starting with the initial consultation with our client to find out what they want from the project, their budget and needs. Once plans have been designed, we submit them to the local authority on behalf of the client, aware of some of the local planning requirements, preferences, guidance and restrictions, to ensure the design meets all regulations. 

2. Can you help with revising or resubmitting a failed planning application? 

Yes, we have a lot of experience revising previously rejected applications and seeing them approved. We offer creative and imaginative solutions that align with local authority requirements while ensuring the client’s vision is achieved. 

3. What types of projects does Vernacular Homes specialise in? 

We specialise in planning and designing new builds, extensions, renovations, restorations, and barn conversions. Our experience includes working in heritage, conservation, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), balancing preservation with modern living. 

4. Do you offer both architectural design and building services? 

Yes, Vernacular Homes provides both design and build services. We take care of everything from initial planning to the final build, so you only have one point of contact throughout the entire project. We organise everything – initial site clearance, utilities, and final testing, inspection and certifications.  

5. Can you help me design a home using existing planning permission? 

Absolutely. If you have existing planning permission, whether it’s your own or inherited with a property, we can help revise the designs to better meet your needs without compromising the approval. 

6. What is the benefit of replacing an existing dwelling? 

Replacement dwellings often offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution than refurbishing an older building. It allows for better design, increased space, improved energy efficiency, and a more reliable, modern home. 
Read more information in our blog.

7. How do you ensure that my design will be practical and achievable? 

Because we are both designers and builders, we know what is feasible within timescales and budgets. This ensures that what we create can be efficiently and effectively turned into reality without compromise on budget or design. 

8. Do you use advanced technology in your design process? 

Yes, we use 3D design and Matterport scanning technology. These tools allow us to provide accurate measurements, design options, and even virtual walk-throughs of a future home before construction begins. Our clients like this process, as it gives them the opportunity to step into their home, experience the space, make changes, and get a clear idea of how the final build will look and feel. 
Take a look at a recent project to see how it works.  

9. Can you help with barn conversions? 

Yes, barn conversions are one of our specialities. We’ve transformed disused barns and neglected buildings into beautiful, efficient homes, often overcoming unique challenges like structural limitations and conservation requirements. 
Take a look at some of our barn conversions.

11. What is the process for revising existing planning applications? 

We work with clients to revise and improve existing planning applications. This may include reworking designs to better meet their needs or local authority requirements, ensuring a smoother process and higher chances of approval. 

12. Can you help if my planning permission has been rejected? 

Yes, we have experience with rejected planning permissions. We work to understand the reasons for rejection, then offer innovative solutions that can meet local planning policies without compromising your vision. 

13. How do you approach conservation and heritage projects? 

We are experienced in working within conservation and heritage projects, carefully balancing preservation with modern design. We work closely with local authorities to ensure all guidelines are followed while creating a home that meets your needs. 
Take a look at our work on the Grade I listed Linton Park Estate, set in a conservation area.

14. How long does the planning and build process take? 

The timeline depends on the complexity of the project, from planning permissions to the scope of the build. We ensure that every step, from design to completion, is carefully managed to stay on schedule and within budget. 

15. I want to build my dream home – but don’t know if I can afford what I want. Can you help me? 
Yes, we can cost projects so that you know before you buy land, or a property for conversion or seek to convert something you already own, what the costs, timescales and planning challenges might be. 
Read our blog for more details of wat you might need to consider.

16: Do you do residential or commercial building? 
We mainly work with private clients on homes, but we also work with small developers who are building up to 5 properties on a plot, or restoration organisations looking to restore old buildings like churches or schools.