Bob’s Barn
Client: Private Client
Type: Residential, New Build
Location: Essex Green Belt
Service: Planning & Building Regulations
Project Team Architects: Mark Waudby and Tom Wiffen
Completion Date: April 2024
Project Brief
The Bob’s Barn project involved the transformation of a small, pre-existing property in the Essex Green Belt into a stunning new-build family home. Originally a modest bungalow, the site was demolished and replaced with a more substantial yet sympathetically designed residence that fitted in with its rural surroundings. The project required careful planning, with a focus on sustainable design and practices, optimal use of natural light, and energy efficiency. The final dwelling boasts an almost 200m² structure with four bedrooms, an open-plan living space, and breathtaking views of the Essex Valley.
MP Chartered Architects inherited the project from another architectural firm that had failed to secure planning permission for a replacement dwelling. We were tasked with obtaining planning approval while respecting the Green Belt regulations and the requirements of the local planning authority, Epping Forest.
Challenges
One of the main challenges was the site’s location within the protected Essex Green Belt, which comes with strict planning constraints. The previous architects had submitted designs that were deemed oversized, and unsympathetic to the local environment, resulting in planning rejections. Additionally, the Epping Forest planning department’s regulations, particularly the H1(F) policy requiring the retention of bungalows in the area, presented a significant obstacle. Balancing the client’s desire for a larger home with the council’s strict guidelines posed another challenge.
The original house was 102m² and the client wanted to double the size to accommodate their growing family and create luxury living, while retaining the aesthetic and environmental sensitivity of the rural area. The project also required creative solutions to comply with Green Belt regulations and secure permission for demolition and rebuild.
Solutions
MP Chartered Architects successfully navigated the complex planning landscape by proposing a slightly smaller, more sympathetic design that respected the surrounding Green Belt. Leveraging the ‘fallback position’ planning rule, we obtained approval for maximum extensions and alterations for the original bungalow. This strategic move enabled us to secure full planning permission for a new build.
We proposed reducing the volume and scale of the house compared to previous submissions by the original Architects and suggested the use of materials more in keeping with the local context, such as brick and cladding instead of rendering. This design approach was far more in line with the planning department’s expectations, demonstrating our understanding of Epping Forest’s requirements.
To meet the H1(F) requirements, we designed the new dwelling to include a bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor, ensuring accessibility and considering the council’s preference to retain bungalows in the area. We also ensured the house was oriented southward to maximise natural light, with large windows and a roof lantern to create bright and airy living spaces.
Results
Bob’s Barn is now a beautifully designed, energy-efficient home that fits harmoniously into its setting. The home features traditional construction methods, including a brick exterior with insulated cavity walls, and modern sustainable technologies such as an Air Source Heat Pump for heating. The south-facing orientation allows for stunning views across the Essex Valley, while large windows, creating a warm and welcoming environment. The house offers four bedrooms, including a master suite, open-plan kitchen and dining area designed for family gatherings and entertaining.
The client actively managed the self-build process, working closely with our team throughout the project. MP Chartered Architects handled all aspects of the architectural design, planning applications, building control submissions, and responses to site queries. This comprehensive approach ensured the project moved smoothly from the planning stage to completion, despite the initial challenges.
Bob’s Barn now stands as a testament to our ability to overcome complex planning constraints and deliver a sustainable, beautifully designed home that meets both the client’s desires and the council’s regulations. A shining example of how thoughtful design can succeed within Green Belt areas.
