We were approached to provide design services by a developer client who had purchased a parcel of land with the benefit of planning permission for a large detached dwelling in rural Lincolnshire. Located in the quaint village of Lenton, the site benefits from an open aspect overlooking countryside to the south, and also has an additional parcel of land to the east, for which the client was seeking to gain change of use from agricultural land to equestrian use.
As a developer of high-quality bespoke homes, our client wished to alter and improve the dwelling design to better reflect the local vernacular and appeal to a greater number of potential buyers. Having previously crossed paths on another project, the client had confidence in our ability to navigate the planning stage, knowing that proposed changes to the design may be contentious.
We worked with the client to reimagine the approved design proposals; taking the permitted foot print and ridge line as a base to ease the planning process. Classic Georgian proportions were used to give the elevations balance and symmetry, with contemporary elements such as large sliding doors introduced where appropriate to maximise enjoyment and views across the site. A high-quality finish was to be created utilising a material palette of local random coursed Lincolnshire limestone and slate roof tiles, alongside aluminium windows and doors.
Following submission of the planning application including change of use for the neighbouring field, the planner remarked that they were pleased to see that the design was a distinct improvement on the original. Thus, she was happy to support the proposals, with only a few minor details negotiated prior to approval. As part of the planning process, we were also able to gain permission for the client for a detached garage/annexe on the site- an addition to the original scheme that proved a considerable draw for prospective buyers.
Our sketch renders were integral to communicating the intent and finish of the proposed scheme to the planner, and our model information was later shared with a specialist visualiser to create renders suitable for marketing purposes. The dwelling was quickly sold from plan, allowing the buyer to enjoy choosing internal finishes well in advance, and meaning they could move into a fully completed bespoke dwelling of their exact specification.
During the technical design phase, we compiled additional information to submit and manage theDischarge of Conditions applications required under the planning permission, which included creating a complimentary landscaping and external lighting scheme.
We produced a full set of building regulations stage drawings and secured Full Plans Approval from building control prior to starting on site, providing assurance that the scheme would be compliant if constructed in accordance with our information. Following this we were on hand to advise of the various provisions and reports that would need to be provided to Building Control to achieve final sign off. This included recommending companies that would be able to assist with matters outside of our expertise, such as ecology and energy assessment.
The project was completed and happily occupied in late 2022, right in time for Christmas preparations!
We pride ourselves in providing clients with clear thinking and straight talking to guide you through the process of delivering good design.
