"This couple dared to purchase dilapidated bungalows at an auction and transformed them into a chic barn-style dwelling"
In the heart of Wiltshire countryside, Antony and Jenni embarked on an exciting journey, transforming a 1920s fixer-upper consisting of derelict workers' cottages and land into their contemporary dream home. The project, however, was not without its hurdles, as the planning permission had lapsed and the site was derelict.
Planning Permission Renewal and Compliance with Current Regulations
To overcome the lapsed planning permission, Antony and Jenni had to resubmit their application, ensuring their plans reflected any changes in regulations or design. They also had to comply with current building codes and planning policies, which can affect design and costs.
Site Condition Risks and Legal and Financial Considerations
The derelict site presented additional challenges such as structural instability, contamination, or overgrowth. To address these issues, the couple had to invest in specialist surveys or remediation, and their construction logistics were complicated. Legal and financial considerations included outstanding taxes, fees, or legal encumbrances affecting the site or project.
Choosing the Right Builder and Consultants
Selecting experienced professionals knowledgeable about local regulations was crucial. Antony and Jenni's architect, with a proven track record, designed a home that combined contemporary details with a charcoal finish resembling agricultural buildings in the surrounding area.
Design and Heritage Sensitivities
The couple's architect also incorporated contemporary details, ensuring their home respected the character of any nearby heritage or listed buildings.
Project Management and Timelines
Despite the delays caused by the lapsed planning permission and the Covid response, Antony and Jenni managed to secure valid permissions and begin works promptly after approval. This proactive approach helped prevent future lapses or complications.
Unique Features of the Home
The new home boasts a central staircase constructed from Corten steel, a masonry gable roof, spine wall, and is constructed around a steel frame. The couple chose a unique 'rainforest' marble for their kitchen worktops, and the bathroom fittings resonate at the luxury end of the spectrum.
The loft bedroom features a balcony space with stunning views over the countryside, and Antony took on the job of scorching the timber cladding. The couple lived on-site in a caravan during the build to save money.
In summary, Antony and Jenni's self-build project on a derelict site with lapsed planning permission demanded careful attention to renewing permissions under current regulations, addressing site safety and condition issues, ensuring all legal and financial obligations were cleared, and engaging qualified professionals to manage design and construction effectively. Their perseverance and proactive approach have resulted in a beautiful, sustainable, and contemporary home in the heart of Wiltshire countryside.
- To tackle the issue of lapsed planning permission, Antony and Jenni had to meticulously revise their plans, considering changes in regulations and design.
- The derelict site posed additional problems like structural instability, contamination, or overgrowth, requiring specialist surveys or remediation for resolution.
- Legal and financial aspects also had to be addressed, dealing with matters such as outstanding taxes, fees, or any legal encumbrances related to the site or project.
- Seeking experienced professionals familiar with the local regulations was essential for the couple, as their architect designed a blend of contemporary details and a charcoal finish that mimicked the style of nearby agricultural buildings.
- The architect also embedded contemporary details in the design to preserve the character of any neighboring heritage or listed buildings.
- Despite Covid-related delays, Antony and Jenni successfully secured valid permissions and commenced works promptly, ensuring further lapses or complications were avoided.
- Prominent features of their home include a central staircase made of Corten steel, a masonry gable roof, spine wall, and a steel frame structure.
- The kitchen countertops were crafted from a unique 'rainforest' marble, and the bathroom fixtures exhibit an air of luxury.
- The loft bedroom showcases a balcony space with captivating views over the Wiltshire countryside, while Antony himself undertook the task of scorching the timber cladding for added character.
