This project was nominated for an LABC Building Excellence Award in the category of Best Change of Use of an Existing Building or Conversion.

The client for this project came to us after they had obtained planning permission for converting a dilapidated barn within the grounds of their house. The barn was in a near state of collapse, however as the property is within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty we were tasked retaining the original timber frame as part of the conversion.

As we were going to be installing an air source heat pump and whole house ventilation system, the first step was to obtain an amendment to the planning permission to include a basement which would primarily house a plant room. We formulated the required drawings and submitted the application to Wycombe District Council, and after successfully liaising with the planning officer and conservation officer, the application was subsequently approved.

Next we produced a full set of detailed building regulations drawings which included comprehensive plans, sections and notes. At this stage we had to carefully consider and specify the air source heating system and ensure that elements like insulation and air tightness were designed to a high level.

We then produced a full tender package which included a schedule of works, detailed schedules, specification drawings and details of the building contract. We tendered the project to a select list of contractors and provided a full tender analysis, allowing the client to appoint their chosen contractor with the confidence that all the work was included within their quoted fixed price.

Once the chosen contractor was agreed we then wrote and set up the contracts for both the client and contractor to sign. Then throughout the construction phase we undertook a contract administration role, acting as the client’s agent and undertaking all manner of duties including weekly site visits, chairing formal site meetings, checking and certifying contractor valuations, agreeing contract variations, and dealing with snagging sign off and releasing held retention monies.

Finally throughout the whole project we fulfilled the role of principle designer for CDM purposes. The meant that we co-ordinated health and safety during both the design and construction phases, and ensured that the client met their obligations under guidelines set out by the HSE.