We are delighted to share that, in collaboration with Atticus Planning, VESP Architects have secured planning permission for the conversion of an existing agricultural barn into a substantial contemporary dwelling in the South Hams.
Located at Rowden, the existing structure is defined by a distinctive precast concrete portal frame. While much of the building has reached the end of its useful life and requires significant upgrading, the structural frame has endured remarkably well and will form the backbone of the proposed design.
The scheme celebrates the agricultural heritage of the site through a carefully considered material palette. Natural local stone will be paired with a combination of horizontal and vertical heat-treated ash cladding from UK Hardwoods, alongside a standing seam metal roof. Together, these elements will complement the retained concrete frame, creating a cohesive architectural language rooted in its rural context.
VESP architects were approached by the clients to look at improving upon an existing Class Q prior approval ‘permission’. Class Q permits the owner to convert an agricultural barn into a dwelling. There are certain rules that must be adhered to, but if followed, the work can be undertaken without planning permission. See our article on Class Q here. VESP re-designed the house to the clients brief, to achieve a more attractive and functional house than provided by the Class Q conversion. A full planning application was then submitted to effectively replace the Class Q prior approval, with permission to convert the barn into a dwelling. This provided more flexibility for the design of the dwelling, and allowed a more appropriate domestic curtilage to be established around the barn.
We look forward to seeing this project progress over the coming months and will share further updates as it develops.
Please contact us, if you would like to discuss your own project.