We have been working on this for 2 years, promoting a contemporary design on a secluded site outside of Leamington Spa, working closely with the client to realise their aspirations for a significantly larger accommodation that than the existing dilapidated bungalow can offer. This has been achieved with the use of a basement under the existing developed footprint. The principle has been accepted by Warwick District Council, following detailed discussions concerning the impact on the open countryside.

The scheme, expressed as a collection of articulated geometric shapes maximises the built volume of the existing bungalow without increasing the above ground massing beyond the additional 30% enshrined in Local Plan Policy.

The design has the capacity to be developed as a zero carbon dwelling, using renewables as it’s only energy source, and can incorporate significant of site construction methods.

We hope to see this scheme on site in 2013.

Chris Rogers, a Brackley resident and manager for Anthony Rickett Architects Ltd, has taken a keen interest in the future of the building.

“Having researched the history of the building, discussed its future with the National Trust and analysed the responses on general forums, it was a relatively straightforward exercise to outline a hypothetical design brief.”

• The building should be sustainable, in that it must generate sufficient revenue to finance the maintenance of its structure and adjoining green space.
• The restored building should allow a variety of community activities and should encourage the use of the adjoining open space.
• Significant architectural features should be retained and any new design must maintain the identity and integrity of the original building.

The restored structure could become an admirable civic resource as a hub of community functions, responding well to the above brief and allowing a variety of activities and services.   The design retains the original Engine House as a general function room, which could be used for mother and child groups, local club meetings and presentations.   The rear of the more recent engine room would be removed and replaced to accommodate toilet facilities and a new café, with both internal and external seating areas.  The insertion of an additional storey will house a gallery space to be used for a variety of displays and functions from networking events to local children’s artwork presentations.   Wall space could be rented to our vigorous community of local artists, generating additional revenue whilst providing a focus of interest for the café customers.

Open views into the park together with easy access will attract visitors into the park and encourage the use of existing facilities and space.   The design allows parents to supervise children from within the facility, and the covered external seating areas will extend the summer season use for additional external enjoyment of the park.

Such a hub could readily become the focus for the community events held annually within the park like the beer festival, music festival and chicken run.

Anthony Rickett Architects would like to stress that this design exercise was carried out entirely independent of South Northants Council and Brackley Council.

By
Chris Rogers

1. Bushbury Hill Primary School

You can’t tell from the outside view but this building actually has an atrium in its centre. As well as being pleasing to the eye, it also serves all the young students’ needs. Probably the trendiest primary school you’ll see in the area, it has been carefully designed so that every classroom and corridor is bathed in natural light. All well as being a bright and airy learning centre, the building is also in a fantastic position to reap the benefits of solar energy. Check out the inner central hub (where the children can actually enjoy being indoors on a rainy day) and unfussy exterior design for yourself – or maybe even send your own little ones to school here!

2. The Hub, Coventry University

The Bushbury Hill primary schoolers aren’t the only lucky students. A year ago, Coventry University completed The Hub, a purpose built work of modern architecture to rehome the students’ union and host other facilities such as work-pods, restaurants, a club, a cinema and a performing arts centre. With modest glass and concrete, the architects created a legendary sleek box that puts the surrounding buildings to shame. Coventry’s answer to Birmingham’s Cube, come to The Hub for an evening show and enjoy the buzz of this popular building along with its daring architectural design.

3. Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham

Possibly one of the most complicated briefs an architect can receive would be to make a huge, beautiful building that also allows for the efficient functioning of a hospital. However, the job was admirably taken on, with an inspiring result well worth a visit. Liaising carefully with a client as demanding as the NHS, the architects successfully delivered a building that takes account of the flow of people both horizontally and vertically. Patient privacy was maximised, without comprising the quality of healthcare. This is one hospital where you won’t see endless corridors, so I hope you’ll visit the elliptical shaped building for yourself.

4. Severn Trent Water Regional Office

If you were surprised by a primary school making it onto the list of local architecture pieces, you are probably baffled by this one. What is great about the Severn Trent Water Regional office is not just that it won a RIBA Award for its “floating appearance” (due to being built on a stainless steel plinth) but also its promise of sustainability. It has achieved a stamp of excellence when subjected to BREEAM, an environmental assessment method and rating system for buildings, and boasts carbon emissions that are 4x lower than your bog-standard office.

Drive up (if you dare to approach this eco-friendly edifice) and take in the impressive view from the car park.

5. The Cube

This Birmingham icon is one example of local architecture on the list you’re much more likely to have heard about. The ornate 53m cubed modern example of architecture is crowned with restaurants and bars that come to life in the night. Even when viewing the cube dead on, it’s far from 2D due to its dappled geometric exterior of multi-tonal crosses. One of the 4 vertical faces is actually partially filled in, allowing light to flow into the heart of the cube from the horizon as well as from immediately above. Whilst you visit this landmark in the city of Birmingham you can also use the spectacular views it offers to scope out more architectural gems in the surrounding panorama.

6. Wyre Forest Crematorium

Completed in December last year, Wyre Forest Crematorium is nestled in 23 acres of well-kept grounds that keep it padded it from a neighbouring industrial estate. Like its groomed but natural gardens, the architecture provides its guests with a serene and tranquil space for the contemplation. It was an ambitious architectural project funded by Dignity in partnership with Wyre Forest District Council. The architects designed the building in a sophisticated way rather than adhering to the traditional layout. The state of the art multi-faith chapel cleverly incorporates a heavenly clerestory light, but is not to bright to detract from the occasion.

Have you seen any of these amazing examples of local architecture in person? Post your thoughts and comments in the box below!

[image credits:Royal Institute of British Architects]

What is the Stirling Prize?

It’s the UK’s most prestigious architectural prize, recognising the architects of a building that has made the biggest contribution to the evolution of architecture over the last year. To be eligible, buildings need to be either in the UK or EU and designed by an architect who has a head office is based in the UK. This year, 50 buildings in the UK and 9 from the EU are in the running for the prize.

How is the prize judged?

The longlist is drawn from winners of RIBA Awards for architectural excellence. After the RIBA Awards are announced in May, a jury is formed to create the shortlist, with the eventual Stirling Prize winner being announced in October.

What does the Stirling prize longlist 2012 reveals about architecture

RIBA President, Angela Brady, says that “What really stands out is that even in times of austerity, we can still deliver amazingly clever, high quality buildings that reflect the needs of today and enhance our daily lives.” The RIBA longlist has “revealed a trend which could be coined austerity chic” and emphasises the depth and expression in current architecture.

The final winner of the Stirling prize is due to be announced 13 October in Manchester.

Full details of the Stirling prize can be found on the RIBA website.

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Want to find out more about how an architect can help bring your building projects to life? Then contact ARA today to discuss your needs and requirements.

What are permitted development rights?

These allow for minor changes to your property, which can be completed without needing to obtain planning permission or go through the planning permission decision process. The precise details of your permitted development rights depend on a number of factors, for example if your property is a listed building or situated in designated land. Also, while permitted development rights apply to many projects for houses, such as conservatories, this is not necessarily the case for flats or maisonettes.

When is a conservatory development considered a permitted development?

To be considered a permitted development a conservatory should comply with the following guidelines:

• The conservatory should cover no more than half the area of land around the original house
• The conservatory should be lower than the highest part of the roof.
• Single-storey rear conservatory must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than three metres if an attached house or by four metres if a detached house
• A single-storey conservatory should be no higher than four metres.
• Maximum eaves height of an extension, which is within two metres of the boundary, is three metres
• Any eaves and ridges on the conservatory should be no higher than the original house
• Single-storey conservatories, which are to the side of the original house, should be no higher than four metres, with the total width not more than half the original house
• There should be no verandas, balconies or raised platforms as part of the development

There is also a useful conservatory mini-guide available on the planning portal, which demonstrate all the guidelines for a conservatory development.

Specific considerations for conservatories on Designated Land

Any developments on Designated Land, which includes national parks, world heritage sites and areas of outstanding natural beauty, must comply with more specific requirements. In particular, conservatories with cladding, including stone, pebble dash, timber and plastic are not allowed. Also, conservatories build on designated land are not allowed to extend beyond the side-wall of the original property. For anyone in this position, then your architect would be able to guide you through the planning process.

To discuss your conservatory development requirements further please contact us.

[image credit:http://renegadeconservatoryguy.co.uk]

When is permission not required for garage developments?

Garage projects are often considered to be permitted developments. This means they do not require planning permission. For a proposed project to be considered a permitted development, it should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Garage developments should be a single story, with a maximum overall height of 4 metres if it has a dual pitched roof or 3 metres for other roof types.
• There should be no verandas or balconies included in the development
• Developments should cover less than half the land surrounding the original house.
• In the case of conservation areas, including National Parks and World Heritage Sites, the total area which can be covered by permitted developments that are more than 20 metres is limited to 10 square metres.

What are the exceptions requiring planning permission?

It is normally possible to build a separate garage development, in the land surrounding your property, without having to apply for permission from your local authority. However, this is not always the case. There are occasions when you will need to go through the planning permission decision process before you can proceed with your project.

Firstly, if your project does not adhere to the guidelines for permitted developments, then you’ll need permission from the planners. Other exceptions include listed buildings or properties situated in conservation areas. In these cases, planning permission is required before any alterations can be made. Also, there are separate guidelines for flats and maisonettes.

Planning permission for garage conversions

For converting existing garages, if the work is all internal and the structure itself is not being enlarged, then planning permission is not normally required. So, it is normally not a problem for garage conversions to go ahead. However, before beginning any work, it is worth double checking that the development rights for garage conversions have not been removed from your property. If this is the case, you will need to contact your local authority before starting any work.

If you would like further information on garage developments and planning permission, please contact us now.

[image credit: builder-team.co.uk]

Which circumstances do not require planning permission?

It is not usually necessary to obtain planning permission to carry out basic maintenance or repair work on your roof. The following modifications can normally be completed without needing permission from the planners:

• Any modification that is less than 150 mm from the pre-existing roof plane
• Modifications that are shorter than the highest section of the pre-existing roof.
• Installation of skylights or roof-lights into the roof

When is permission likely to be necessary?

The main instances requiring planning permission for work on the roof include those living in flats or a listed building. Additionally, for properties situated in protected areas, such as a National Park, you should consult the local planners before starting any work.

Permission will also be needed if your project exceeds the limitations of allowed work. For example, if you are extending the size of the roof by more than 150 mm from the pre-existing roof, then this will often be treated as a loft conversion or extension and therefore requires planning permission.

Any other considerations before starting work?

If the work on the roof is part of a larger project, such as property change of use or extension, then you’re likely to require planning permission. Also, while many roof projects do not require planning permission, they are still subject to building regulations. Another important consideration to bear in mind before beginning any work on your roof is the impact it could have on wildlife. In particular, if the work is going to disturb a protect species, such as bats, you may have to apply for a wildlife licence.

If you’d like further guidance on your roof and planning permission, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

1. Design and Access Statement

This should be a straightforward statement or report, explaining the thought process behind the design. As it accompanies the main proposal and is an important part of the planning permission decision making process.  It is made available for anyone to see and it should avoid any unnecessary technical terminology.

The design and access statement also needs to show the applicant has considered how the design proposal will affect anyone wanting to use the development once completed. For example, they may need to explain how it will be made accessible for older people or young children. There isn’t a set length, but the design and access statement needs to reflect the complexity of the project. So a large scale development is likely to require a longer statement than an extension to a private property.

2. Site Location Plan

The site location plan, also referred to as a ‘location plan’, is needed to show how the new development would sit in relation to surrounding properties. It needs to be on an up to date map, made on an established metrical scale (usually 1:1250 or 1:2500).The position of the new development should be outlined in red on the site location plan, while any additional land owned by the planning applicant, which is near to or adjoining the site of the new development needs to be outlined in blue.

3. Block Plan

The block plan, which is also known as a ‘site plan’, is designed to show the new development in relation to the property boundaries. Block plans should be submitted on an up to date map, with the scale typically 1:200 or 1:500. The block plan needs to show the size and location of any the pre-existing property and its relation to the boundary. It should also include the size and location of any other buildings and their uses that are within the property boundary and the positioning and size of any streets adjacent to the property plot.

If you are uncertain about your supporting documentation or have any queries, it is worth seeking advice. One of the most common reasons for applications failing is if the supporting plans and statements are invalid. Also, take some time to look on the Planning Portal for the most recent advice regarding planning permission documentation.

To talk through any part of the planning permission process, please contact us – we’ll be happy to help.

Once your application has been received, it will be considered by the local planners. Then, they will respond to you with their decision in writing. It is worth noting that the precise process will vary between different local authorities.

What is the timescale?

Most planning decisions are made within eight weeks. Exceptions to this can be large or complex cases, which can take up to thirteen weeks for a decision to be granted. After a planning permission decision has been granted, you normally have three years to begin the development, unless otherwise stated in the permission. If you haven’t started your project by this time, then you’ll either need to re-apply or request and extension.

Planning permission decisions and conditions

If the planners place any specific requirements or conditions, as part of granting planning permission, then these have to be fulfilled before any development can begin. This could include submitting further details about specific aspects of your plan, gaining consent for work on listed buildings or submitting a more detailed application if only outline permission was granted. Any change of use of a property also requires specific planning permission. Also, any significant changes to the initial plans would require you to re-apply for permission.

What to do if you are not granted permission?

Firstly, if your local authority refuses your application, they must provide you the reasons behind their decision in writing. It is important to talk through you concerns with local planners and find out if any modifications to your plans might change their decision. It might be possible for you to re-submit your altered plan for free within twelve months if your initial application was rejected.

If you believe the planner’s decision is unreasonable, then it is possible to lodge and appeal. Though, this should only ever be a last resort. Remember that your architect will be able to guide you through the whole planning permission process.

For more advice on planning and the planning permission decision process, please feel free to contact us.

[image credit: dddesignltd.com]

When should you get retail planning permission?

It is not necessary to obtain permission prior to beginning a project. But, if permission is declined, then all work must be undone and the property returned to its original state. So, before getting started, it is advisable to talk to your architect and local planners about then specific planning requirements for your shop project. Taking this step will, in all likelihood, save you time and money.

Changing your property into a shop

Retail planning permission is likely to be required if you’re changing the use of your property into a shop. For those wanting to change residential properties into shops, it is worth bearing in mind many planning authorities have specific areas that are designated for commercial use. Seeking permission for properties outside of these areas will be more difficult. But, even changing other commercial properties for retail usage will require permission from the planners. For more information read our blog on property change of use.

Altering retail adverts and signage

Even if your property is already used as a shop, there can be cases of works and improvement that require planning permission. While some adverts relating to the business may already have deemed consent, it’s worth double-checking this. Displaying adverts without the relevant permission is considered a criminal offence. Also, bear in mind that similar planning rules exist for shop signage.

For further information, please contact us and we’ll be happy to talk about planning permission requirements.