Timber framed Reception Hall designed as a new frontage to the Grade II Listed Barn.


Refurbishment and Extension of a fine 7 bedroom Country House within 184 acres of parkland and farmland set high on a sandstone ridge with manicured gardens above Hawkins Pond on Hammerpond Lane to the east of Horsham. A resin bound carriage drive with various outbuildings and cottages compliment the landscape setting of the house with distant views to the South Downs.
DESIGN
The landscape approach to the house uses a retreat and denial strategy to help create anticipation rather as Asplunds 1915 Woodland Crematorium. The notion of procession is similarly developed within the new work using a pavilionate or chapel strategy to keep the mass of the scheme subservient to the main house and attempts to emulate the intensity of the processional and landscape quality of Asplunds work.
3 Construction Phases:
Phase 1
The main house required extensive refurbishment, partial demolition of the existing rear service wings and complete renewal of all statutory services, heating, electrical services, thermal upgrades, solar array, new bathrooms, alterations to the entrance hall. The original plan had separate service accommodation for staff with a second staircase serving kitchen, utility and storage. NDA developed a design concept in response to the clients brief to harmonise the old character of the house requiring the demolition of the old service accommodation and staircase and the addition of a generous a contemporary low energy glass and steel extension.
Structural Engineers: Ellis Structures Ltd
Main Contractor: Comber & Sons Ltd
Mechanical Services: RDJ Consultants Ltd
Electrical Installation: Sussex Electrical Ltd
Heating Services : Adept Heating Services Ltd (Phase 1 only)
Contract value £1.0M
Phase 2
Demolition of attached substandard service wings and erection of a 2 storey contemporary glass, steel and timber framed stairwell with a new roof terrace. A floating Oak staircase links both ground floor entrance hall and first floor bedrooms to the new kitchen & dining room. The glazed Arcade extends from the new stairwell widening the existing kitchen to forma new kitchen and breakfast room with a glazed arcade as promenade/vista linking the south view and new garden entrance from the drive with a double height family room, changing room, dog room shower room. Hard and soft landscaping. Rendered west elevations to match house with fully glazed elevations to the east and south (garden) sides with extensive hard and soft landscaping.
Energy Assessor (SAPS): Thermenergy Ltd: http://www.thermenergy.co.uk/
Main Contractor: Comber & Sons Ltd http://www.comberandson.co.uk/
Structural Engineers: Ellis Structures Ltd https://www.ellisstructures.com/
Mechanical Services: RDJ Consultants Ltd
Electrical Installation: Sussex Electrical Ltd
Doors and Windows: IQ Glass Ltd : https://www.iqglassuk.com/
Contract value £2.2M
Phase 3
The fully glazed arcade using IQ Glass sliding and fixed screens was extended from Phase 2. A new gymnasium and swimming pool hall with 17m x 5m NATURAL water (ie no chemicals) swimming pool, 2 storey plant room with Menerga Air Handling Unit and twin commercial grade Mitsubishi ASHPS and separate ASHP Plant Room and LPHW underfloor heating. 30 no PV panels (9.9kW) are sited on roof to help supplement ASHP demand. Landscaping scheme extended to suit.
Energy Assessor (SAPS): Thermenergy Ltd http://www.thermenergy.co.uk/
Main Contractor: Comber & Sons Ltd
Structural Engineers: Ellis Structures Ltd
Mechanical Services: RDJ Consultants Ltd
Electrical Design : ICFM Ltd
Electrical Installation: Sussex Electrical Ltd
Electrical Services: ICFM Ltd
Mechanical Services : BTU (Installation & Maintenance) Ltd
Swimming Pool: Clearwater Revival Ltd
Doors and Windows: IQ Glass Ltd
Landscape Contractor: Twig Ltd
Contract value £2.29M
This gallery contains 34 photos.
Extension & Alterations to this Grade II Listed Building within Rottingdean Conservation Area. Front and Rear Range built late 18th Century. This Contemporary yet Traditional Design was granted Listed Building and Conservation Area Approval allowing the rear end of this … Continue reading
Fully Glazed extension to link adjoining cottage with glazed extension to existing Farmhouse at Newick.
Traditional attached hipped and catslide extension to rear of converted flint Barn part of large converted agricutural complex on The Green in Rottingdean Conservation Area. The internal volume was expressed in trussed Oak. Required negotiating a Sewer Diversion with Southern Water and 2 Party Wall Awards and abutting composite flint and brick elevations.
Structural Engineer Ellis Structures Ltd: https://www.ellisstructures.com/
Contractor: Ram Construction Ltd: https://www.weareramconstruction.co.uk/
A plaque was added to this building facing Stewards Inn Lane by the Friends of Lewes in 2016 citing that the original Abattoir building was owned by Marsh the Butcher, whose shop was at No 50 High Street LEWES until its closure during World War II. The property name was derived from the working farm sited between Barcombe and Spithurst where the animals were reared to supply the Abattoir and Marsh’s butchers’ shop at 50 High Street LEWES. The site is within an area of archaeological potential within the historic core of the medieval and post-medieval town of Lewes and situated close to the scheduled remains of Lewes Castle. St Martin’s Lane itself may possibly preserve the route of one of a number of parallel Saxon lanes that run southwards from the High Street. Cartographic evidence suggests that a building has occupied the plot since at least 1775.
The original Abattoir was split into 2 separate residential units with the north facing wall onto Stewards Inn Lane having had the first upper floor windows bricked up presumably when the residential conversion was implemented after WWII. The existing cellular room arrangement creates a series of small spaces not commensurate with modern spatial requirements and takes little advantage of the landscape setting and fine views to the south. The proposal seeks to open up the interior to enable a generous kitchen dining living area with easily accessible service and storage accommodation so clients and their guests can enter the building either using the original garden side door into a glazed 2 storey stair hall with an open tread stair rising up to the main accommodation or when children, wet dogs & muddy boots arrive at the house they can enter from the courtyard level so that coats and boots are neatly placed in storage before entering the principal area of the main house.
3D IMAGES OF EXISTING BUILDING
3D IMAGES OF PROPOSED EXTENSION
The Old Stables Hollycombe House Liphook Surrey were constructed in 1850 by Sir John Hawkshaw as part of an extension to the Hollycombe House Estate. The works given Planning Permission comprised a new open air swimming pool and changing rooms on a raised terrace well above the main house. A new entrance courtyard and garaging was designed with extensive landscape alterations.
Proposed Change of Use from Commercial to Residential as single grand dwelling.
PURPOSE DEISGNED TROPHY CABINET FOR SUSSEX MOTOR YACHT CLUB LTD
The Trophy Cabinet design originally included a 2 storey height Trophy Cabinet for Shoreham Yacht Club set centrally within the netrance hall stairwell however this was cancelled although it was drawn and detailed. The SMYC cabinet was fabricated in Mirror Polished A316 Stainless Steel by metal fabrication specialist Bob Forrest of Brighton Marina. Mirror and Toughened glass supplied by Shaws Glass Ltd strong enough to carry the International Britannia Trophy (1931). The cabinet is now installed and populated with our substantial historic Trophies at our new Clubhouse at 85/89 Shoreham Road Shoreham BN43 6RF which we share with Sussex Yacht Club Ltd.
Design and installation: Nigel Dalby, Bob Forrest (with installation help from SMYC Directors)
Stainless Steel Fabrication: Bob Forrest of Forrest & Stevens Marine Ltd
The Marine Trade Centre The Boatyard Brighton BN2 5U
Glass fabrication: Shoreham Glass (Shaws) Ltd
266 Upper Shoreham Road Shoreham BN43 6BF
In this project we designed a Minimalist Structural Steel and Glass structure to elevate and enlarge the existing kitchen of a 1930s Country House to provide an exciting glazed kitchen and dining room overlooking the garden. To acheive sustainable and compliant thermal levels we applied external insulation to the existing walls and rerendered to match the existing. Succesfully achieved Conservation Area & Planning Approval and Building Regulations Approval.
Phase 1:
Single storey glass and steel wing extending the roof line of the (refurbished) garage along with a new glazed side entrance hall onto the entrance drive.
Phase 2:
Main house external elevations re-rendered over a new insulation layer finished with Parex render to upgrade the poor thermal performance of the building.
Phase 3:
First floor as redesigned to be implemented. New ASHP to be installed in place of the gas boiler to service the underfloor heating and wet radiators within the house.
Structural Engineer: DHK Ltd Heversham House, 18-22 Boundary Road, Hove East Sussex BN3 4EF
tel: 01273 421444 web: http://www.dhk.co.uk
Energy Assessor: Thermenergy Ltd web: http://www.thermenergy.co.uk
Steel framed extension almost fully glazed with Cedar cladding to Grade II Listed Country House just outside Eastbourne. Various alterations to main house and curtilage buildings. New North Wing as 2 storey contemporary extension set within courtyard and sloping ground to the rear of the house attaching to and reusing existing outbuildings with single storey glass link extension back to main house.
Fine early 18th Century Rectory substantially altered by Lewes based surveyor in 1840 including remodelled south and east elevations and new roof and gabled structure thrown over and extended at the rear. Existing kitchen very restricted and ancient services.
New North Wing granted Listed Building and Planning approved by SDNP (2023) along with extensive alterations and refurbishment internally to main house, currently under construction.
Royal Tunbridge Wells Skin Ltd 25 London Road Tunbridge Wells
The new waiting room is a toplit infill between a number of buildings at the rear of the Medical Centre to neatly link in all the ground floor accommodation allowing level access to Dental and other usrgeries and treatment rooms
Contemporary Low Energy Dwelling 3 stories with excavated lower storey on a narrow infill site by the sea. Original scheme excavated the whole site to form a low rear range with central atrium garden set between the ranges.
The revised scheme omits the rear range and lengthens the main range still to give a 3 double bedroom 3 shower room property. Lower ground has master bedroom, dressingh shower room with courtyard and guest bedroom with shower room. Entrance storey kitchen / dining / living room with large glass screens over the courtyard and a bridge across to the rear garden. Upper storey another main bedroom suite with balcony and a separate office/study sitting room.
The scheme is designed to recycle all grey & surface water using green low energy solutions throughout. Excessive insulation, natural materials, IQ minimal glazing, LPHW underfloor heating served by ASHPs coupled with extensive roof mounted PV panels, utilising solar gain to minimise running costs.
ORIGINAL SCHEME
REVISED SCHEME
A fine Grade II Listed Regency Vicarage at Laughton with a compromised ground floor due to the kitchen taking up one of the principal rear reception rooms. The proposed scheme recasts the old service wing, demolishes the old storage buildings and forms a new steel structure to tie in the earlier work with a new roof structure spanning the width of the scheme and expressed as a glazed gable end to follow the pitch and scale of the existing.
Topgraphical Survey : MJ Zara Ltd
Structural Engineer : Ellis Structures Ltd
New Service Range as two low parallel ranges screened by raised flank wall
A Grade II Listed cottage originally Grooms accommodation and stables set high along the walled margins of Lewes Castle. The service accommodation was poorly arranged with shower room and small entrance lobby between kitchen and dining room. We opened up the whole stables range to give it an impressive volume and inserted a large new handmade kitchen and utility room.
Contractor: Hartley Quinn Wilson
A new contemporary single storey low energy dwelling on a green field site facing south in the lee of the South Downs in Ripe East Sussex
The site is alongside a Roman Road so an archaeological watching brief during excavation. Planning Permission has been granted and construction completed.
The building is a very highly insulated constructed with a steel and timber stud frame clad with natural Cedar vertical clading, beam and block flooring due to ground conditions, tree proximity serviced by 2 ASHPS supplying a wet underfloor heating system from a remote plant room with heat recovery and PV & Solar arrays mounted on the roof behind the parapet.
COMPLETION
Rear 2 storey extension with oriel window to traditional urban dwelling in Bexhill. The property lacked definition at the rear and the extension was designed to take advantage of the views down the long garden from the new bedroom suite.
No 4 Barnfield Gardens is very unusual for Ditchling (or anywhere in the SDNP for that matter) as it forms a modern example of domestic urban estate architecture usually seen on urban fringes. This is a 1930s estate of Estate of 6 mock Tudor dwellings all with timber appliqué grouped around a small village green on the edge of the downland countryside (SDNP).
This large detached dwelling sits in fine park-like grounds overlooking the public park to the south but clients felt it suffered from small windows and a rather dark & sombre interior. The proposal is an extensively glazed wrap-around rear single storey extension with a cantilevered roof to protect the new kitchen dining living area and master bedroom suite. The attic was also converted with a large new dormer with projecting Juliette Balcony added. Scheme approved July 2016 construction completion July 2017.
Conversion of a late 18th Century Farmstead in 21 acres to include a total of 8 residential units. The farmstead included a Corn Windmill in the croft to the rear of the farm until about 1890 when it burnt down and disappeared from OS Map records. A late 18th Century Steam Mill building replaced the Windmill and still survives although altered and converted to residential use. The complete scheme was submitted in two phases:
Phase 1: Conversion of Barn and Stables into 4 residential units was approved under ref LW/16/0519.
Phase 2: Conversion of Old Steam Mill Building (Cottage) and The Old Coach House (Tractor Shed) into 2 residential units was approved under ref LW/17/0312.
The site reached completion with all units quickly sold.
Formerly the Firle Estate Manager’s House sited on the edge of Firle Conservation Area with fine views across open farmland towards the South Downs. Clients were keen to radically improve the present building design with a more sustainable solution utilising modern ecological technology and materails performance. NDA were commissioned to advise on a design strategy, whether by extending the building or making extensive alterations. We suggested an attic conversion and internal alterations would be more effective than an extension so as to maximise the accommodation and provide a stunning second floor master bedroom suite. The design development was intended to address the poor massing of the building by introducing an external freestanding Oak framed Dormer Carriage structure to carry two large projecting balconies with Oak framed dormers supported on a substantial Oak carriage running through the building front to back. Planning and Conservation Area Approval was granted by Lewes DC followed by Building Regulation Approval. We involved The Green Oak Carpentry Company Ltd to assist with the design and detailing of the Dormer Carriage Oak work which included restructuring the attic roof to integrate the structure properly.
Dormer Carriage detailing: Green Oak Carpentry Co Ltd: https://www.greenoakcarpentry.co.uk/
Land Surveyors: MJ Zara Associates Ltd https://zara-associates.com/
Structural Engineer: Dennis Manning
Founthill Farm is an early 16th Century Grade II* timber framed farmhouse part of a small farmstead on the outskirts of Newick. The principal early 16th Century timber framed range has exposed original close studwork with lime plaster infill. The problem was trying to appropriately extend this fine traditional building to provide an exciting and more generous new kitchen and dining wing as the existing plan is compromised by modern spatial standards. The scheme was designed as a freestanding contemporary glass pavilion constructed within a sunken brick courtyard to the south elevation initially with a narrow umbilical fully glazed link to the main house. This was widened at clients request into a fully glazed mezzanine and granted Planning & Listed Building and Building consent.
Contractor: Len Brandsbury Construction
Structural Engineer: Ellis Structures Ltd
A contemporary glass single storey wing attached to a substantial Grade II Listed Victorian house. The existing house was originally a bold red brick and tile hung extension attached to a stucco Georgian two window house and the house was split into two dwellings in the 1960s. To achieve the split a small flat roofed extension was added to provide a kitchen which meant the subject house has inadequate service accommodation for a house of this scale and furthermore it is tucked away in the north corner of the site with no outlook. The proposed new wing provides a strong contrast to the existing building and will enable commensurate quality accommodation including a new kitchen & dining room looking south across the fine gardens with new utility, storage and service accommodation.
The proposed works to this 19th Century Cottage are in two elements:
1) Attic conversion for a new master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and glazed cheek Oak dormer with clerestory lighting
2) At ground floor replacing the existing UPVC Conservatory with a new Oak framed Atrium Extension set on a masonry plinth with all the ground floor external walls removed to allow best open spatial configuration of the new kitchen & dining/sitting area. The original front room with open fire had previously been opened up as part of the kitchen so in this proposal the wall is reinstated to provide two separate front rooms in their original configuration.
A classic 1965 bungalow set in a quiet rural location high above Lyme Regis on the fringes of Uplyme on the border between Devon & Dorset. We obtained detailed Planning Permission for the project from East Devon District Council. This as an ecologically and environmentally sensitive proposal to retain & reclad the existing building using sustainable natural materials with a single and 2 storey softwood framed extension (one at each end) to provide 4 bedrooms & shower rooms and generous living accommodation as a sustainable family house, or holiday home, with elevated viewing platforms cantilevered from the rear for good views across Lyme Bay.
A bat scoping survey was completed to establish whether the roof is used by bats, the advantage of retaining the main building is that we can take all necessary mitigation measures to accommodate protected species habitat whereas a replacement dwelling scheme here would not only disrupt habitat for protected species (which is against EU legalisation) but would involve the substantial cost and disruption of numerous HGV vehicle movements to remove spoil and waste to landfill, then further movements to bring in replacement materials.
A new 4 bedroom timber framed dwelling designed as two parallel but linked timber framed ranges in East Meon, a very picturesque Hampshire Conservation Area setting.
This is replacement dwelling for a tired 1960s bungalow close to a flood plain with streams along two boundaries on piled foundations with a Southern Water Sewer running diagonally under the property.
The design was enthusiastically supported by East Hants District Council, their Conservation Architect and Planning Officers. Prefabricated Timber Framed sustainable low energy construction with 240mm insulation to external walling with Western Red Cedar Boarding cladding. Natural Slate roofing, renewable energy systems using an Air Source Heat Pump serving wet underfloor heating to all floors, centralised vacuum cleaning ports, mechanical heat recovery system as well as a laundry chute!
A carpenter’s delight and a credit to Rusty for the excellent cladding detailing & finishing work. Construction started
A Grade II Listed late medieval Timber Framed house with evidence of a rear aisle and sooted rafters, original build of 1400 with later additions and it was still thatched in the 1960s. Dr Annabelle Hughes inspected and reported on this building in 1999. Our proposal was working within the later rear service wing and adding a direct glazed extension with some internal alterations to provide a new kitchen & family dining area with principal bathroom above with views across the farmland rising to the rear of the property.
This small Farmhouse, Listed Grade II, is part of a farmstead on Ditchling Common and comprises a principal range with a service wing attached to the rear. Unusually it has a rounded beach stone facade partly concealed at first floor by tile hanging. NDA have successfully obtained Planning & Listed Building Consent from Lewes DC to extend with a timber clad 2 storey range linked to and and running parallel to the rear service range with a single storey glazed link (this neatly enlarges the existing service accommodation). The new work is set back and apart from the principal elevation to avoid disturbing the built configuration and to allow a clear interpretation of the chronology of the building which would be shrouded by a direct extension.
A fine Georgian house in Newick with later alterations and service wing. The owners were unsure how to extend the building so NDA were invited to design a two storey rear extension to replace the existing narrow service wing. Several solutions were proposed.
The Rainbow Inn (Listed Grade II) is an 18th Century Coaching Inn sited at an old road crossing point at Resting Oak Hill Cooksbridge Lewes. It once formed part of a small farmstead which refreshed the needs of passing travellers on horseback or with horse drawn vehicles. The adjacent Forge & Blacksmith’s buildings would deal with the normal service items of vehicles while The Rainbow Inn supplied ales and drinks to tired drivers and their passengers. Historically the Rainbow Tavern during 1947 (ref E Reeves) was in High Street Lewes, renamed Lincolns Inn now The Rights of Man.
Diversification is a key aspect of survival in an increasingly competitive market. It appears a key ingredient has been missing here, ie the provision of overnight accommodation, so that The Rainbow Inn can position itself to make the best out of passing trade and accommodate the overflow from Lewes itself as it has done so since the 18th Century. Unfortunately the depressed economy, costs of travelling, reduced trade from drinking & driving has forced the closure of many similar establishments.
The scheme NDA designed was granted Full Listed Building & Planning Approval by Lewes DC providing 7 double bedroom units of Hotel Accommodation in the form of a new courtyard range plus the conversion of an old Stable, Forge & Cart Shed (which are curtilage listed) to 3 further units with associated car parking.
Contact the The Rainbow Inn here: https://www.rainbowinn.co.uk
NDA designed a decorative contemporary OAK staircase to access a large mezzanine forming part of Grade II Listed 5- bay Barn Conversion near Liphook in assocation with The Green Oak Carpentry Co Ltd.
The clients wanted something really dramatic as a free standing feature in the main hall. The staircase design draws on medieval, historic and contemporary furniture (eg Biedermeier) design using stage techniques such as tromp l’oeil but ultimately intended as a finely crafted and robust piece of bespoke furniture worthy of its prominent setting within this dramatic barn.
NDA were invited to prepare some design options for the existing Pells Pool buildings. We carefully considered retaining and extending the existing buildings but concluded a replacement building would become a beacon to energise the community use of this unique facility.
We propose to retain the best of the original walling forming part of the spine construction separating the pool from the lawn and playground.
Following a free initial consultation our service is tailored to suit each clients requirements and can be simply a consultation or partial services or we can co-ordinate a scheme from preliminary sketches, house floor plans, through to project completion. As Architects we offer a full range of professional services from preliminary design, feasibility studies & detailed site appraisal reports through to the formal planning application process, building regulations and other statutory approvals on to contract administration and administration of completion of the build project.
The services we provide are generally as described in the RIBA Plan of Work.
Architects are skilled at problem solving and resolving complex design issues in particular. We work closely with our clients to deliver plan and design solutions that suit each client. Early meetings and discussions about a project are a vital part of the design process to avoid costly delays or abortive work and we always develop a positive and open working relationship with our clients so that together we achieve the very best solutions and particularly so that clients feel relaxed working with us. We are always very pleased to informally meet any prospective clients who may consider appointing an architect or simply want some informal advice.
Initial Consultation
We will normally visit the property to discuss the project generally and the extent of professional service you require. Our initial discussions are aimed at forming a project “brief” setting out the project particulars and services which is sent out in a letter and fee proposal for your agreement. This also explains our detailed services in accordance with the RIBA Plan of Work and forms the basis of our agreement.
Measured Survey & Preliminary Design
To enable us to prepare drawings of your proposals we will need to prepare drawings of the existing building based on a hand measured survey using a Leica Disto laser. We often suggest you commission a land surveyor to carry out a 3D external topographical survey (very useful even for smaller works) as it is important to have the most accurate 3D information to work from. Preliminary drawings (typically plans, sections & elevations) form the basis of the project and are developed from the survey work and used as the basis for design discussions and developing your proposals. The drawings can be used at this stage to provide budget cost forecasts, or as a basis for preliminary discussions with a builder or even a planning officer if required.
Planning
When a planning application is required we will develop presentation drawings and submit an application on your behalf to the Local Planning Authority. We maintain regular contact with the appointed case officer while the planning application is processed so that we can quickly deal with any issues that may arise. Planning applications are normally determined within 8 weeks of submission to the Local Authority and are valid for three years from the date of approval, although you can make a further application later to extend this period.
If your property is situated in a Conservation Area or is a Listed Building you will require either Conservation Area or Listed Building Consent or both, requiring additional drawings and supporting documentation. This is rather more detailed work than a typical planning application but we regularly and successfully deal with such applications.
Building Regulations
Before you can legally commence on construction it is usually necessary to submit a Building Notice (with simple works) or obtain Building Regulations & Acts Approval from the Local Authority Building Control Department who will check your proposals are built according to approved technical standards. A Building Control inspector will visit your project to agree the works in accordance with the Approved Documents. We can prepare a Building Regulations Application for you comprising drawings and construction information and detail, which for most residential projects is the minimum level of information for a competent builder to understand and price reasonably accurately the nature and scope of works.
Working Drawings
We frequently provide a fully detailed or partial working drawings service for clients so that bespoke or critical components are properly and quickly detailed where required during the course of construction.
Contract Administration
You will need to decide before you approach a builder whether or not you need an Architect to administer your construction contract for you. Building contracts can then be negotiated with a preferred builder or competitively tendered. We can provide you with advice and administer tender procedures for you.
Site / Contract Administration
We can administrate your building contract for you, attend regular site meetings and certify work, or we can just attend meetings at key stages where you feel that you need help or you can just call on us when you need our services by prior negotiation.
Party Wall Surveyor
If your building is in close proximity to a neighbouring property boundary you will probably be required to issue notices and agree a Party Wall Award under the Party Wall Act 1996. We can advise you on the appointment of a Party Wall Surveyor.
Structural Engineer
We can advise you on the appointment of a Structural Engineer whose drawings details and calculations are required to satisfy Building Control and to ensure all load paths on existing or new structures are properly resolved and calculated. We liaise with the structural engineer from the beginning to ensure we get the fit of aesthetics and the structural solution properly balanced.
Eco-Energy Assessor
Eco- Energy assessments, SAP energy calculations and CSH (Code for Sustainable Homes) are nationally recognized methods for rating and certifying the performance of new (or existing homes) to meet the requirements of Part L of the building regulations. We can advise you on the appointment of a suitable energy assessor to report and prepare suitable certification for the project. Frequently the first point of contact is to explore the thermal performance of the proposed or new building and to assess the options for improvement and the impact on the fabric of the building. We used to prepare calculations ourselves to advise clients accordingly however properly qualified assessors are now a statutory requirement.
Planning Consultant
Occasionally we may need to advise clients to appoint a planning consultant where we need additional input by a specialist Planning Consultant. We work with experienced local Planning Consultants and will advise on their appointment
CDM Coordinator
The CDM (Construction Design Management) 2007 Act cover the health and safety issues concerning building projects under construction. Domestic clients undertaking domestic projects are exempt from CDM client duties. The CDM client duties apply to domestic premises if the client is a landlord, housing association, charity, collective of leaseholders or any other commercial activity. We can advise on the appointment of a CDM Coordinator.
Set within the curtilage of the main Grade II* Listed house, the Coach House has good fenestration and in need of total restoration. We have designed new plans for ground and first floors, incorporating a glass bridge between the first floor accommodation with additional dormers and windows as required.
The Old Rectory itself will undergo various alterations attic, ground and first floor. The roof structure is currently undergoing refurbishment and strengthening and the ground and first floor alterations including new glazed external screen doors, relocation of the kitchen and services with various bedroom and bathroom alterations.
Full refurbishment including top floor extension and roof deck to a unique Modernist 1934 beach house at West Worthing. The house was in very sad condition with a poorly organised plan but had spaces termed “telephone room” and “observation room” with the fenestration simply a reflection of the latest architectural fashion of the 1930s including the tank & observation room as a plain rendered “tower” simply finished with a wet run cornice.
The brief was to create a simple contemporary interior, upgrade and replace the fixtures and fittings, extend the top storey to provide a sun deck overlooking the sea. The articulation of the extension was carefully detailed to retain the expression of the original tower with a new sitting room, sun deck and enlarged observation room.
Our work on this property was published by Jane Crittenden in a 5 page spread in Coast Magazine:
And this mention:
45 West Parade was stylistically complimented by the new residential scheme on the opposite side of The Marine Gardens.
Conversion of Costcutter Supermarket to low energy 4 bedroom built within a terrace of 18th Century cottages in Lewes Conservation Area over 4 floors. Firstly largescale demolition of the existing building retaining the party wall structures and return front elevation. Secomdly excavation and extension of the cellar storey with construction of new 225mm reinforced concrete walls and slab to support a new 3 storey steel frame within the shell of this late 18th Century Grain Store. Original footprint reduced but extended at the rear over 4 stories. Conservation Area Approval for new extensively glazed 2 storey garden building and garage below. Extensive Party Wall Awards.
A fine Grade II Listed medieval timber framed manor house c.1450. We added a large oak framed garden room to the service wing and revised the entrance hall sequence, as the main entrance was no longer used. The new porch was carefully detailed in oak and built by joiners to reflect the existing joinery quality within the building. The service range was substantially altered to allow the refurbishment of the kitchen to include the new glazed garden room.
Fine Regency substantial residential property in 75 acres. Three phases of work approved by Lewes DC to the House and Coach House:
Phase 1 & 2: Obtain consents for alterations to historic core of main house with new underfloor heating to the entrance hall, various internal and external alterations and recasting of two service wings incorporating staff, kitchen, storage accommodation and rear yard to form a grand formal vista through the house linking the main stair hall through the kitchen and dining area punching through the rear service wing to complete the vista through to the garden and swimming pool beyond.
Phase 3: Alterations to the coach house to provide garaging & garden equipment storage and a very posh loft for the resident white doves who currently inhabit a large open barn. A Roman Road runs across the main entrance to the property which triggered archaeological conditions involving preparation of special reports and survey material with close liaison with the County Archaeologist (ESCC) and appointment of specialist archaeological consultants to give an archaeological watching brief to monitor the excavation and ground works and agree the recording of any finds.
Grade II Listed townhouse one of a freestanding terrace near the riverside of Lewes. Ground floor glazed extension with attic conversion to study bedroom. A very tight scheme on a very old filled former river-side site, attic construction typically tight dimensionally and lightly structured!
A new timber framed house required a series of minimalist glass balcony balustrades using Q railings EVO aluminium balustrade supports set flush to the IPE balcony deck boarding. This generated an eccentric load so we designed a steel mounting plate system to be concealed within the timber wall cladding strapped back into the outer glulam beam so we designed bespoke steel framework for each condition.
NDA was asked to design a grand external staircase down to the sunken garden for this 1934 house. We approached Orchardstone who supply and fabricate bespoke reconstituted stonework and emailed them full drawings and details, the stone was delivered for the contractor to construct. All the external doors required bespoke stairs in addition the main house and garage parapet wall copings were purpose manufactured to radiused profiles all as designed by NDA.
An Early Victorian Chapel finished with Roman Cement converted to a dwelling in the 1940s with later unsightly additions. Little evidence of original “chapel” configuration except for nice curved oak truss bottom chords concealed within the attic void. The brief was to design an extension and alterations to provide generous kitchen, utility and living accommodation with additional bedrooms at first floor. Various solutions were explored and planning permission was successfully obtained for an “L” shaped extension, however the clients then decided to explore further options and we produced some 8 further designs and even suggested the removal of all later work and flooring to reinstate the original chapel typology and recasting the remaining floor area as a stand alone 2 storey wing linked to the chapel “frontispiece” maximise the clarity of the scheme and the stunning south facing views.
Clients wanted a traditional bell push for their 1930s house. NDA explored all the available options and having found an original bakelite bell push in good condition (from ebay) we designed a backplate. This was fabricated in polished A316 stainless steel as the site is very exposed being some 200m from the sea
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The backing plates are designed to mount a classic range of 4 round modernist and minimalist weather stations designed by Henning Koppel in satin finish stainless steel and comprise a quartz Clock, Barometer, Thermometer and a Hygrometer. The backing plates are a composite of three layers constructed from a face plate of mirror polished A316 Stainless Steel with twizzle carbon fibre sheet bonded onto a A 316 backing plate. The weather station can be mounted in either a portrait or landscape configuration and two designs were prepared either with radiused or square ends.
As part of a 1930s house refurbishment NDA were asked to design a substantial set of high gloss lacquered shelving for clients extensive book library and objectd’art. We prepared detailed drawings for the fabrication o including a concealed motorised blind for the rear garden doors. The shelving was constructed and fitted by Dot Interiors Ltd.
Conversion & refurbishment of substantial upper storey to one wing of an H plan Grade II listed school building. Previously dormitory and service accommmodation, converted to high tech classrooms with full audio, visual and computer installation. Extensive remedial works required, contractor Comber & Sons. Contract value £900,000.
2011 International Competition entry to develop the harbour frontage of this fine Georgian Town. Whitehaven is a fine Georgian town with a strong urban grain set by the old harbour. The design was intended in part to reference lighthouse and Martello Tower fortifications and by raising the tower allowed a better public spatial relationship to achieve the given brief.
NDA designed this storage system as a simple staircase and wine rack system to fit within a thin storage area to suit a client requirement for a wine store.
Originally designed to slide away behind the front wall and hedge, the gate was modified to act as a manual swing gate which could be later adapted for automatic use. The gate has a galvanised steel frame and timber sub frame clad to all surfaces with 140×20 IPE (Ironwood) boarding fitted with concealed fixings.
The chart holder is designed in a landscape or portrait configuration to accommodate marine weather charts in a mirror polished A316 stainless steel frame with carbon fibre insert panels. All to match the dashboard detail of a 2000 Windy 40 Bora sportscruiser.
As part of a 1930s house refurbishment we were asked to design a new vanity unit. To give the room some gravitas we fully cantilevered the vanity unit to carry a Corian worktop with double sink fabricated with drawers constructed beautifully by Dot Interiors in polished white lacquer.
Grade II Listed House and Coach House. We obtained all statutory approvals and costings to substantially alter the main house integrating a courtyard to provide a toplit kitchen, new staircase, attic conversion and various internal alterations. We also obtained all consents for the coach house conversion, extension and the formation of a new substantial swimming pool set within the grounds.
Built in 1930 the new owners of this substantial house asked us to provide a home design plan service for the conversion of the building to suit their needs. An existing set was prepared with various designs some more detailed with elevations for bathroom layouts.
We were instructed to prepare a Retrospective Listed Building application for the insertion of shot blasted glass partitions into this fine converted Listed Grade II granary. Some screen elements were modified to improve the layout and LB consent for the alterations was duly granted.
A simple shelf but to accurately fit into an existing curved pearwood drinks cupboard on a luxury sportscruiser just to take european glasses and a cruette drawn in ArchiCAD and emailed to a cutting factory.
A fine Grade II Listed Georgian farmhouse arranged as a farmstead with a large barn used for functions. The clients wanted us to help provide contemporary solutions to the internal accommodation, in particular alterations to the attic, ground and first floors. One of the internal problems that concerned clients was the low light levels in the entrance hall and the main living room having such a poor relationship with the fine landscape setting. We designed a new glazed landing to flood the entrance hall with light and inserted 3 tall opening within the living room having obtained listed building consent for the works.
NDA designed this solution on CAD for salt & pepper to avoid problems with seasoning while at anchor. The solid A316 stainless steel plinth insets within the cockpit table and is felt lined to sit on the polished saloon table while down below.
The brief was to form a new side entrance to this Grade II listed building with utility and storage. To avoid conflict with the fine front elevation we disguised the scheme between two garden walls. The front wall was swept down to articulate the facade. Two schemes were designed and costed.
We obtained Planning & Listed Building Consent to convert & restore this fine 17th Century timber framed cottage and replace an extensive attached 1970s extension with a new timber clad parallel range with glass linked extension joining the two scheme elements.
This was a fast track conversion of an irregular 3 storey office terraced building site set centrally within the Carfax Conservation Area in Horsham. NDA were commissioned to quickly agree the plans to agree Building Regulations compliance with Horsham DC Building Control.
New dwelling project on woodland site just down the road from another house (known as Bosworths) we designed for a developer client . This design allowed for the retention of the original 18th Century timber framed cottage as ancillary residential accommodation and was intended to be a courtyard design allowing for coherent future expansion….
NDA were commissioned by a London Barrister with Chambers in Surrey to design an extension with basement storey to enable new mediation rooms with associated parking. The extension to chambers provided additional library storage and a link through to the two adjoining buildings. A complex programme of requirements with the construction of the basement storey alongside the existing buildings complex.
A project for 2 detached 5 bedroom houses in two plan options on a difficult plot with steeply sloping ground in the Conservation Area of School Road Godshill. The plan rotation was centred on the All Saints Church Tower which sits above the site.
New timber framed garage/office/garden building in tight urban site at rear of Listed Building in Southover Street Lewes. The new building allows for the sloping site and sits alongside two 18th Century flint boundary walls heading up a narrow drive running up to the rear of the property from the road running below.
The clients were antique restorers by trade and wanted to self-build a new but traditional masonry office building on a tight infill site in Horsham Town Centre with difficult rear access. We negotiated all statutory permissions and assisted the client with details and advice as the work proceeded. The scheme was let on completion. The rear of the site was also designed and approved as a separate unit so as to maximise the site value.
A Grade II listed late 17th Century house set in the High Street of Cuckfield, we obtained detailed Listed and Planning Consent for a new kitchen resited within an existing service wing which was refurbished and we also obtained consent for a new closet wing extension.
A fine Grade II Listed country house dated from C1450 with a nicely sooted crownpost roof. We acted for three owners of this building involving preparing a site development plan, extension, new garaging centred around a fine old Oak tree and internal alterations to the main house, removing interfering timber posts where appropriate.
Tom was a successful sports physiotherapist in Cuckfield and asked us to convert a period outbuilding and design a new garage in a corner of the plot with limited vehicular access from a narrow lane. The garage design was quite tricky to achieve but was very successful and provided a good discrete solution to the project.
The governors of this delightful village Primary school asked us to extend the building to provide a new classroom for pre-school children. We all concluded after some investigation that the extension should be seamless continuation of the main Victorian range utilising underfloor heating, which was a great success. The lofty interior forms a suitably dramatic introduction known as “Early Years” to school life.
NDA obtained Conservation Area Consent here for a discrete single storey red brick side extension to a picturesque Georgian cottage sited very prominently on Western Green near Hampton Court. There was naturally a great deal of local interest in the project and it required a high standard of drawn presentation work and 3D imagery to clarify the work for all concerned.
Conversion to Business Units of Grade II* Curtilage Listed Barn & Foldyard set within the curtilage of Grade II* Newbuildings Place. The County Architect ,Michael Rowan ,wrote in his consultation report that “this was a conversion of high architectural quality”, this was subsequently endorsed by this award and also as a reflection of the unique group effort to complete this scheme.
This project was awarded the The Commercial Award by the Sussex Heritage Trust Award 2004.
Since its inception back in 1995 by the Countryside Agency the concept of the Whole Farm Plan has evolved as a means to assist farmers and landowners to develop alternative and viable uses for their farm holdings.
I acted for the the Earl of Lytton FRICS of Newbuildings Place who had procured a development strategy in consultation with the WSCC Working Group and we designed a scheme for the conversion of a large range of redundant agricultural buildings to commercial/residential use (dual designed for residential so that the services and infrastructure are interchangeable should the owners wish to revert to commercial use). It was however fully let before completion.
A substantial replacement dwelling scheme gross 4425sqft on a stunning 7.5 acre site in Wivelsfield Green, half of which is ancient woodland. The original building was poorly located and the new dwelling provides substantial 5/6-bedroom accommodation. The traditional elevations were a client requirement. Sold on completion by the developer.
We acted for two separate owners on this property, a moated site with extensive equitation accommodation. The first owner we converted an existing barn to grooms accommodation and built a new stable yard with masonry looseboxes. The second owner we extended the main house at two storeys with the new principal rooms overlooking a lake created by extending the moat.
This Field Barn forms the last phase of the conversion of the redundant farmstead buildings on this estate. The approved use is for residential letting purposes and a sensitive conversion was required due to its open landscape setting. The access is via a woodland track.
A two-storey range of ancillary outbuildings built against the old pond bay & part of the old mill at Rowfant with stunning lake views. The developer owner was struggling to find a way to achieve a viable conversion and asked NDA to assess the scheme. The proposals we suggested and gained approvals for were very quickly implemented and the units sold immediately.
Grade II Listed Barn unusually converted to a house in the 1940s. NDA designed a new attic conversion with some rear facing dormers, new staircase, first floor alterations, new kitchen and various other alterations within the building. The works were completed.
This project involved the conversion and linking of two barns sitting alongside the curtain wall of Amberley Castle into 5 hotel suites each with large jacuzzi baths. The barns were in poor condition prior to conversion. In association with John Lytton & Co. who conduct the land agency for the owners, we fronted extensive negotiations to achieve planning, listed building, & statutory building approvals to insert a glazed link between the two barns and to create high quality suites commensurate with the status of the existing hotel accommodation.
A fine substantial brick mid 18th Century country house Listed Grade II with 3rd gear drive. We demolished an existing faceted attached conservatory and designed a replacement Orangery wing as offices with a new service access stair to serve the basement below and mezzanine above.
The developer clients instructed NDA to design & detail a 72-bedroom extension to the existing hotel accommodation. The package included negotiation of the planning, building & highway approvals in record time as they chose to start on the foundations as soon as the planning application was lodged. We also designed and obtained WSCC Highways approval for a new right hand turn lane and various highway improvements. This was only a partial service and NDA were not involved with the design amends as constructed.
A 1930s house by Oliver Hill built on the edge of an old quarry so a dramatic setting and drive access. The owners instructed NDA to restore and provide contemporary extensions to both sides and a new wing linking to a large double garage with gymnasium. The clients changed all the modern upvc windows on the south elevation back to metal the original Crittal windows (by Clement Bros), the north elevation horizontal bar original windows survive and were used as a pattern.
A fine Grade II* Georgian town house, the main entrance of which was hardly used such that visitors sneaked in via a side door. NDA were recommended to assist the new owners and we recast the side a as an entrance wing with new service facilities plus various internal alterations. The amends were a great success.
A delightful old 19th Century Abattoir in the grounds of a Grade II Listed House once owned by the village Butcher. The Abattoir was heading towards collapse which the old timber machinery at roof level no doubt contributed to and required extensive discrete strengthening to ensure its integrity and now forms an attractive 2 bedroom cottage. Dates: Abbattoir: 1999-2004, Main house 2005.
This Grade II listed timber framed farmhouse & stone barn are in close proximity, the scheme development was unusual as the barn was designed as the principal living accommodation with the house altered to provide ancillary accommodation, a direct glazed timber link building allowed the two buildings to achieve a unique combination.
An unusual Grade II Listed Farmhouse on a fine site south of Haywards Heath with stucco frontage & slate roof with red brick rear elevations and a rear roof of handmade clay tiles. The scheme comprises a two-storey cross wing extension with a 2 storey glazed link housing a fine new Oak staircase linking both floors of the existing & new building. The client complained about the original house having little relationship to the garden and was keen to adjust this. In contrast to the traditional existing fenestration the new work uses large two storey glazed Oak oriel windows serving as corner screens to take advantage of the fine views down the site.
NDA were asked to prepare redesign and refurbishment drawings for partners of an existing solicitors offices. It was a cramped uncomfortable entrance into a lift lobby, the brief was to articulate the space to give it more interest,functionality and resolve the principal elevation which had some potential.
NDA designed a top glazed link extension to expand the rear service wing out to the party wall, obtained all consents and inspected the works, The property was extensively refurbished and we added and additional storey hidden behind the parapet to this fine London Terraced Town House in NW11 for a private client.
This house sits high looking over a brook and into an extensive tree canopy. NDA was asked to prepare designs for a new kitchen/dining/utility range and the problem was how to avoid supporting the second storey which returned across the middle of the plan. We proposed a new steel frame with slender round columns placed to suit the kitchen layout so that the interior was unaffected by constructional compromise. The utility area was concealed behind sliding shot-blasted glass doors which slide into the dividing wall thickness. The dining area has top mounted sliding folding doors on two sides of the corner column allowing unrestricted views across the tree canopy and garden.
The remains of Hardham Priory are sited by the Arun water meadows at Hardham, West Sussex. During the reign of Henry II Sir William Dawtrey founded here a Priory of Black Canons of St Augustine originally know as Heringham Priory. Enlarged by Sir William Pagnell (1312-1377) but derelict by the late 15th century and disbanded in 1534 as part of the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Two substantial portions of the Priory survive, namely the Refectory (with a small portion of the monk’s Common Room at its east end) and the Chapter House. Both date circa 1350. The Refectory is built of stone rubble, partly plastered, converted to a modern farmhouse following a fire in 1900 with a plain interior inserted. Internally little detail to see as the building was once the Refectory. However the basement, storey entered on the south (lower) side) is a fine vaulted undercroft of stone groin vaulting across of 6 bays in 2 avenues supported on round stone columns in the centre. The section of the Common Room to the east (which remains) consists only of ruins.
In association with the Earl of Lytton FRICS our brief was to design a plan for refurbishment and repairs along with alterations to achieve conversion of the cellarage and attic to ancillary accommodation.
An early overshot corn mill alongside the lake at Slaugham Place. The owner asked NDA to prepare a design to extend the building across the mill race and for the conversion of the mill to residential use. The work is in progress slowly & carefully in hand by the owner.
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NDA obtained planning consent for a new classroom wing attached to the rear of this delightful school in Burgess Hill. The site for the extension was unfortunately set rather close to a fine and substantial Sequoia which the MSDC Arboriculturist insisted would not disturb the ground surface which meant cantilevered foundation beams (above ground) with pads or piles to avoid disturbing the delicate fibrous root structure.
Following an appraisal of the clients existing premises in London & West Country we developed a brief for land agents detailing the site requirements to suit the proposed company expansion. A site was selected and a fast track scheme completed ready for occupation within 6 months from instruction involving the demolition of 1500sqm of frontage buildings to enable the new head office and future site frontage commercial development. The existing shop layouts were adapted for sign production with various alterations to allow for vehicle and equipment handling. Dates: feasibility phase 1991, demolition, design & construction of head offices and new sign production factory 1992-3, further factory alterations 1993-94.
A substandard bungalow for which we negotiated all statutory consents and provided construction & joinery details for conversion to two stories including two storey extensions to two sides. The clients completed the work on a self build basis with our assistance. Dates: 2000-1.
We dismantled and stored a 19th Century oak framed hovel which we acquired from Slaugham Place and eventually sold the structure privately. The purchasers then asked us to design and obtain consent for a substantial extension to their fine old Oasthouse in Maresfield. Fortunately the Oasthouse had been converted to residential use in the 1940s so we were able to negotiate this large extension to replace outdated service accommodation and recast the main living accommodation.
Redevelopment of HA Baker & Sons Contractors own site in Southwater. The project was designed as a gated courtyard of new B1 business units arranged to maximise the site potential on a busy through road but at the same time sympathetic to the scale, urban grain & site context.
A nice pair of matching attached country cottages in a very attractive country lane. We acted for both adjoining owners as we had successfully negotiated a substantial extension for one side and the other of course wanted to match the accommodation but with a more contemporary plan. Dates: 1999-2001.
This project involved the erection of a two storey cross wing attached to a bland gable end to the existing service wing attached at 90 degs against the main house stack of this Listed Grade II 16th Century range. The north (entrance) elevation has an expressed box frame in good condition. In contrast to the rather closed configuration of the existing house the extension was orientated to acknowledge a strong diagonal view across the lawn towards a distant Oak set in the field beyond. The extension corner was expressed as a 2 storey Oriel window in Oak with flanking buttresses to give definition and shadow and pick up the line of the adjacent brick garden walling. A radial set of yorkstone steps allowed the higher ground to set down elegantly to meet the glazed corner of the new wing and complete the architectural composition.
The existing house was 229.30sqm and the additional floor area amounted to over 40% increase. Subsequently a small single storey service wing was also added to our extension and internal alterations made by others.
A project to extend an early 19th Century stucco cottage as a linked extension designed to merge two conflicting building type and maximise the plot potential of a prominent and well known picturseque Cottage overlooking the Pond on Barnes Village Green.