Be Inspired

Recently we have seen an upsurge in the way clients are using digital platforms to help them bring their design ideas to life. Throughout our consultations with our clients we are building a very clear picture in our minds of the designs they are communicating to us.

Alongside the complex procedures that can be part of a build project, from planning permission, building regulations through to monitoring the builders programme of works, the ultimate picture of what our clients are looking for is a constant reference to all that the build involves.

This is where online platforms such as Houzz and Homify come into their own. Both platforms allow users to create ideabooks showcasing their thoughts on the overall design as well as materials used and any eco credentials desired, giving us a snapshot of what our clients are wanting from the final build and ultimately what service they require from us.

We are showcased on both platforms where our project in North Devon has recently appeared in many editorials and is winging its way into plenty of ideabooks. We felt it was only right that we should tell you a little more about it…..

Our client purchased a barn that had been poorly converted about 30 years ago. It was at this time divided with a separate annexe, resulting in a disjointed layout and the living accommodation split over two levels. The site benefited from wonderful sea views but the poor conversion meant the internal spaces did not relate well or maximise the potential of the site.

Our brief was to not only bring back and enhance the quality of the existing building but to re-design the internal layout whilst maximising the views by linking the house with the surrounding landscape.

The final scheme provides sleeping accommodation on the lower level linked with the gardens and a large open plan living space at first floor opening on to an integrated south facing balcony. By cleverly rationalising the structure we have been able to increase the outlook towards the panoramic sea views from the first floor accommodation.

With the combination of natural wood, locally sourced slate and stone and some contemporary glazing this really isn’t just your usual barn conversion.

The team at Homify put it nicely when featuring our project; “It is amazing to think that a home as cohesive, beautiful and well put together as this one could be the result of a formerly botched extension project, but therein lies the genius of the team behind a sensitive re-imagining of what this barn could become.” Click here for the full article.

The scheme has been awarded Highly Commended at the 2014 LABC Building Excellence Awards for Best Extension or Alteration to an existing home.

For more of our private housing projects please visit our website