Barn Conversion Architectural Designer

Barn conversions are appealing for a number of reasons. They have many positive elements that make them ideal buildings to convert into a dwelling.

They are usually of ample size, their external facades and character are already in-situ and planning permission is not always required as permission may be obtained under what is known as ‘permitted development’, also referred to as ‘Class Q – Barns and Agricultural Buildings to Residential’. A barn conversion can often provide a suitable footprint for open plan living.

If you are looking to convert a barn GO Architecture can help with many aspects such as documents, drawing and advise on suitability. If you would like to know more about our services or book a consultation then please get in touch today.

Barn Conversions

What are the potential pitfalls of a Barn Conversion?

There are many different aspects as to whether a barn is going to be viable as a conversion to a dwelling.

There may be planning restrictions to what can be altered within the interior or the exterior of the barn. The external footprint may be fixed with the external walls, which leaves limited options to alter the overall size of the building’s footprint and the window and door openings. This means the internal layouts will need to be designed carefully to utilise the existing footprint and the existing window and door positions.

With certain planning restrictions, meeting current energy performance requirements may mean insulation would need to be placed on the inside of the external walls and around structural features. This would reduce the overall useable floor area but as some barns can be of ample size a reduction in space should not pose an issue.

How can we help?

Appointing an Architectural professional such as GO Architecture can guide you through the process of converting a barn can help ensure against potential pitfalls.

Advice can be given on the different stages and documentation required in order to achieve a stunning and bespoke new home.

GO Architecture can assist with your barn conversion project by initially assessing the viability of development through surveys, reviewing the integrity of existing structures, and advising on the requirements for planning permission. From our initial assessment and a structured brief, we can produce the necessary documents and drawings to obtain approval, from planning if required, although a lawful development certificate is recommended if the permitted development route is viable.

Depending on the design brief we will look to maintain the existing character and internal/external features of the barn, and endeavour to seamlessly integrate new elements and materials whilst balancing your aspirations for the property.

Barn Conversions

Barn Conversions FAQs

An architectural designer can guide you through the process, assess viability, review structural integrity, advise on planning requirements, and produce necessary documents and drawings, ensuring the project balances character retention and personal aspirations.

Challenges include planning restrictions on altering the interior or exterior, fixed external footprints, and the need to meet energy performance requirements, which may reduce usable floor area.

Costs associated with barn conversions can be similar to other construction projects, in particular the following may need to be considered:

  • Appointing a structural engineer early on in the process to assess the existing condition of the structure
  • Demolition of existing floors, walls or roofs, including the removal of asbestos
  • Underpinning – strengthening existing building foundations
  • Addressing damp areas
  • Providing the necessary services
  • Providing suitable access
  • Bespoke windows and doors
  • Ecology survey
  • Insulating to upgrade fabric to current UK Building Regulations
  • Provision of new damp proof course and membrane
  • Build Warranty
  • Location of the barn, within a conservation area, or is it listed
  • Drain surveys
  • Ground investigations

We can assist with the selection of suitable builders, suppliers and sub-contractors for your project.

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