Netherhouse Farm
Client: Eccere Epping - Don Benton
Type: Residential
Size: Site Area = 2724m2 or 0.2724 hectares GIA of the houses (Gross internal areas) - Barn 1 = 64 m2 - Barn 2 = 109 m2 - Barn 3 = 64 m2 - New house 4 = 98 m2 - New house 5 = 86 m2 - New house 6 = 85 m2 -New house 7 = 85 m2
Location: Sewardstone Road, London, E4
District Council: Epping Forest
Service: Architectural Service to Building Regulations
Project Team Architects: Martyn Pattie, Bilal Malik
Completion Date: December 2019
Project Brief
The original brief for this project was to design a barn conversion and two additional dwellings.
The focus would be on the creation of a number of modern living spaces within the context of a traditional structure, with the inclusion of natural and modern materials to create desirable living spaces.
Challenges
Converting a traditional agricultural building for domestic use is not always a traightforward process and it can be challenging to get it right.
We faced restrictions due to the barn being curtilage listed, so we were not permitted to demolish it. In addition to this, another challenge was that the original barn structure was situated on a partly commercial site.
The stable buildings were not of good enough quality to renovate so after discussion and meetings with the conservation and historic Buildings Officer, we were granted permission to replace these with two detached chalet style dwellings, creating three homes on the original site.
There was still some concern regarding the commercial use around the site and that this could potentially limit the resale value of the dwellings.
Upon review of the existing plans, it became apparent that the earlier drawings were not meeting their ‘maximum value per plot’ capability. With some added careful thought and planning, it was evident that we could significantly increase the demand and value of this development project.
We then had a further meeting with the Historic Buildings Officer on-site, with a view to gain permission for a further number of dwellings of a smaller nature on the site.
After proposal and consideration, the District Council agreed that the barn could be converted into three smaller units and in addition, the proposed two new dwellings be split into two pairs of semi-detached homes, creating seven smaller houses with a private road with exclusive access for all residents.
We were required to utilise the existing structure, so the focus had to be on upgrading internal and external features to current building regulations standard. It was important to be considerate of maintaining a sustainable theme coupled with the use of reclaimed and traditional building materials wherever possible. The proposed clay tiles used to replace the metal corrugated roof and beautiful new weatherboarding added to a really impressive finish that was true to a development of this character.
Solutions
An exclusive, private gated community of seven beautifully designed and finished 2-3 bedroom dwellings. Each stunning residence has its own good-sized secluded garden, private driveway with plenty of additional parking for visitors.
The estimated market price for each property is £450k – £600k, as opposed to the original forecast of two larger homes at £900k – £1m each.
The sympathetic, yet high specification creates a wonderful synergy of natural and modern materials resulting in marvellous living spaces that truly reflect modern lifestyles.
