Celebrating International Women's Day, Llandeilo Literature Festival & the Incredible Women Behind It All

Rethinking Architecture

Celebrating International Women's Day, Llandeilo Literature Festival & the Incredible Women Behind It All

Today, I am sharing something a little different! As the Mayor of Llandeilo, and someone who both works and lives here, I can truly say that this town holds a special place in my heart. Each year, I like to sponsor a local event, and with so many incredible festivals and initiatives to choose from, the decision is never easy. But this year, I have chosen to support Llandeilo Literature Festival—a weekend dedicated to celebrating the written and spoken word, running from April 25th to 27th, 2025.

Since tomorrow also marks International Women’s Day, it feels like the perfect time to highlight the incredible team of women who work tirelessly—not only alongside me, in work and on the council but behind the scenes as well—to bring some of Llandeilo’s most beloved festivals to life. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work make Llandeilo and events like the Lit Fest truly special.

👷🚧🥳Celebrating the Women in Architecture & Construction in Llandeilo🥳🚧👷

For International Women’s Day, I want to firstly take a moment to appreciate the incredible women in architecture and construction that I have the privilege of working with and for in Llandeilo. These women are shaping our town—designing, building, restoring, and preserving the spaces that make our community unique.

From designers bringing visions to life, to engineers ensuring strong foundations, to the skilled tradeswomen and planners making projects happen—your dedication, expertise, and hard work do not go unnoticed. We are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and building a future where talent and passion define success.

Thank you for all that you do to make Llandeilo a more beautiful, functional, and a truly inspiring place to live and work. Tomorrow, we celebrate us!!

Why I’m Sponsoring Llandeilo Lit Fest This Year

I like to sponsor something that I connect to, and this year, I have chosen Llandeilo Literature Festival—and for so many great reasons!

First and foremost, the festival is powered by an incredible team of women (and men to be fair) working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this celebration of words and creativity to life. It is a reflection of the diverse, vibrant town we live in, with a wonderful schedule of events highlighting the power of storytelling, poetry, and discussion.

One of the things that makes Llandeilo Lit Fest so unique though, is how it is woven into the fabric of the town itself. Events take place in a range of local and historic buildings, creating a real sense of place and community—an approach that was rightly recognised last year with an award from the Civic Society for its creative use of venues.

Reading, writing, and creativity are just as important for young people as sports, and after the huge success of our council’s pump track in Parc Le Conquet, it feels right to champion the arts as well. The festival’s Kids Fest is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation through books and imagination.

What’s Happening at Llandeilo Literature Festival?

This year’s festival is set to be a fantastic celebration, featuring:
📖 Celebrated Welsh Writers
🎭 Poetry, Storytelling and Music
📝 Workshops
📚 Kids Fest
🏳️‍🌈 Pride at the Lit Fest

To launch Kids Fest on World Book Day, members of the Lit Fest team visited local schools, including Ysgol Gymraeg Teilo Sant, Llandeilo Primary School, Ysgol Gynradd Ffairfach, Ysgol Cwrt Henri, and Ysgol Gynradd Talyllychau. They introduced a poetry and illustration project for the children, inspired by …And I Hear Dragons, the poetry anthology edited by Hanan Issa, National Poet of Wales.

The children were absolutely captivated when Kate and Charlotte arrived dressed as Mary Poppins and Gangster Granny, with Charlotte hiding her Mayoress chain 'loot' in her swag bag, setting the tone for a festival full of fun, imagination and creativity!

I am beyond excited to support this event and to see our town come alive with stories, poetry, and the power of words. If you are in Llandeilo, be sure to mark your calendars and join in for a magical weekend!

April 25th to 27th, 2025

Tickets are now available; click on the image below to link you to the programme:

CMArchitectural Joins the LABC Partner Authority Scheme!

 

CMArchitectural Joins the LABC Partner Authority Scheme!

We are excited to share some fantastic news - CMArchitectural is now officially part of the LABC Partner Authority Scheme (PAS)! This milestone means we can offer a more streamlined, consistent approach to Building Regulations across all our projects.

What Does This Mean for Our Clients?

Being part of the PAS simplifies the approval process, reduces paperwork, and ensures fewer queries, leading to a more efficient and cost-effective service. With a single point of contact for plan appraisal, we can provide consistency and clarity, making the entire process smoother for our clients.

The LABC Partner Authority Scheme Explained

The PAS is designed for companies working across multiple locations and dealing with various local authorities. It allows businesses like ours to develop a one-on-one working relationship with a preferred local authority for advice and plan appraisal. However, site inspections will still be conducted by the local authority where each project takes place.

Key Benefits of the Scheme

By joining PAS, CMArchitectural and our clients gain numerous advantages:

Faster, More Efficient Approvals: The scheme helps streamline the building process, saving both time and money.

Expert Support Throughout the Design Process: A dedicated building control surveyor from our chosen local authority will work closely with our design team to provide expert advice across all projects nationwide.

Early Issue Resolution: By collaborating from the start, we can address any potential issues early in the design phase, reducing the need for costly changes later in construction.

Consistent Plan Appraisal: A single point of contact ensures a uniform approach to interpreting Building Regulations, leading to a more predictable and seamless experience.

Local Knowledge, National Support: While we benefit from a consistent process, site-specific conditions and necessary consultations are still handled by the relevant local authority to ensure compliance with regional requirements.

Looking Ahead

Joining the PAS is a significant step for CMArchitectural, enhancing the quality and efficiency of our services. Our clients can now enjoy a more coordinated approach to building control, improved pre-application services, and seamless liaison with essential services like Fire, Police, and Environmental Health.

We look forward to leveraging this partnership to deliver even better results for our clients. If you have any questions about how to start planning your project, feel free to contact us!

Project Focus | Carmarthen Castle | Maintenance and Renovation

Carmarthen Castle | Gate House

Exploring Carmarthen Castle: A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship

When I penned my blog last June, thinking all was going well and I'd be writing monthly, little did I realise how extraordinary the coming months would be. The latter half of 2024 was a whirlwind - juggling professional commitments and my duties as Mayor of Llandeilo. But amidst the busy schedule, I was given the opportunity to contribute to something truly special: the conservation of Carmarthen Castle.

Historical architecture has always captivated me, but I had never been so deeply involved in preserving such a significant structure. Standing in front of the gatehouse, I questioned: "Where would you even start to begin to draw up a castle?" Surprisingly, the answer was simpler than expected - approach it as you would any other project, and the pieces will fall into place.

A Collaborative Conservation Effort

The restoration project at Carmarthen Castle is being expertly led by Nathan Goss, director of 'Nathan Goss Conservation.' His expertise in historical conservation has been instrumental in compiling reports and recommendations for both Scheduled Ancient Monument and Listed Building submissions. My role? To create the detailed drawings - plans, elevations, and intricate details -  needed to visually support his reports, showcasing both the current structure and the proposed preservation work for this landmark in the centre of Carmarthen.

Carmarthen Castle | Gate House

Why Castles Captivate Us

Castles are fascinating structures that are more than stone and mortar; they are living histories, silent witnesses to centuries of human resilience and architectural brilliance. Surveying a structure like Carmarthen Castle requires meticulous planning, a keen eye for detail, and a deep appreciation for historical context. Whether you are a historian, architect, or simply an enthusiast, there is a fascinating process behind every successful architectural survey. And here is the secret - it did not require anything beyond the standard survey techniques I use for all my projects!

Carmarthen Castle | Gate House (Inner)

Preparing for the Castle Survey

Before setting foot on site, thorough preparation was key. 

Here is how I approached it:

• Historical Context: I delved into the castle's rich history, including its origins, architectural evolution, and historical significance. Understanding the past shapes the way we approach preservation.

• Existing Documentation: Gathering old surveys, maps, and plans is invaluable. In Carmarthen's case, local historians were essential allies, pointing me toward a wealth of prior studies and resources.

• Essential Tools: The kit included measuring tools (tape measures, laser distance meters), sketching materials, cameras, and even a (Nathan's) drone for aerial views - all crucial for capturing the castle's full essence.

Bringing the Castle to Life: The Drawings

My part in the project involved translating the castle's grandeur into a set of architectural drawings unfolding the walls as I went. Each line drawn was not just a technical necessity but a step toward playing a small part in preserving a piece of history. From detailed elevations showcasing weathered stonework to accompanying plans highlighting areas requiring careful intervention, the drawings became both a technical guide and a tribute to Carmarthen Castle’s enduring legacy.

Carmarthen Castle | Architectural Drawings

A Lasting Experience

Contributing to the Carmarthen Castle project has been more than just professional work - it has been a memorable journey into the heart of historical conservation. Standing beneath the gatehouse arches, I have gained a newfound respect for the craftsmanship of the past and the importance of preserving it for the future.

If you ever find yourself near Carmarthen, I highly recommend visiting this majestic site. Let its towering walls and ancient stones tell you their stories, just as they did for me. Visit Carmarthen.

2025 | Happy New Year | Happy New Project

Did you know ...?

In 2011 RIBA predicted that in 2025 "the client-savvy architect must be able to see beyond ‘building a building’ and offer a service that embraces the client’s broader aims – becoming a problem solver as well as a designer." ArchDaily

And that is exactly what I enjoy doing ... every project is a process, some more complex than others but all just as important, so as another New Year gets underway is it time to start planning your new project?

Is it time to re-organise your home and create some extra space after a Christmas bursting at the seams, time to plan the conversion of that empty building that has been stood unused for too long or is now the time to explore building something new?

Survey - Design - Planning and Building Regulations Permission - Build

Where do you begin?

Many clients have come to me with ideas they have been thinking over for a while, a new build , extension or conversion are not often the sort of projects you start as a spur of the moment thought but never say never! Every client will have either specific thoughts on style, pictures of individual elements, rough sketches or even plans drawn up themselves that need drafting to scale, rationalising and presenting in readiness for gaining the permission or quote needed.

Some have a plot of land in mind and a goal of working up to building there, others have ownership of a site with previous plans that they wish to be updated or changed to suit. Whereas other clients contact me simply with a desire to complete maintenance to their properties but require permissions to do so; especially if the building is listed, in a conservation area or has another restriction within the boundary.

Start the conversation

It is important to me that whether a client has a fixed idea of what they want or only a vague one they are able to contact me and begin the process in exactly the same way with no upfront costs. A free consultation is always offered with a site visit and an initial meeting. It gives me the chance to view the site and discuss design ideas, identifying any factors that may have an impact. For the client, they will get to know who they will be working with as a good client-professional relationship is essential to me.

Discussing the way forward is the next step. Sometimes that is a straightforward path to submitting a planning application but quite often there are many other routes to take as there is much more to the architectural process than you may think! I have covered a variety of topics in earlier blog posts including; Outline Planning | Full Planning | Householder Planning and Permitted Development | Listed Building | Retrospective.

Charlotte

If you are inspired to begin

Contact me at cmarchitectural15@gmail.com or on 07584992755

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/cmarchitectural15/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CMArchitectural15

2024 | Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year | Reflective

 

To end the year I thought I would reflect on what I have covered so far. 

Back in January I decided to start this blog and I am glad I did as it seems that the posts showing project updates and answering the more common questions are both enjoyed and useful. Thank you for joining me and for the sharing the enjoyable variety of projects that have come my way. 

My second post aimed to address a couple of questions I get asked more often than any other; As an owner of a Listed Building what restrictions are there; Can I just carry on with maintenance? What does being in a Conservation Area mean; Is it the same as a Listed Building? This remains the most popular post of the year and I will do a follow up early next year discussing the specifics of Llandeilo's Conservation Area.
listed-buildings-conservation-areas

Outline Planning, Full Planning and Householder Planning were the topics of the next post shedding a little light on the differences, followed by Permitted Development, Listed Building and Retrospective in March.
outline-planning-full-planning
part-2-outline-planning-full-planning

A couple of behind the scene posts appeared in March and June giving a glimpse into process and what I do as an Architect's Technician.
the-importance-of-well-designed-floor
what-does-freelance-architects

Finally, I have really enjoyed creating some 'Project Focus' posts and there are plenty more of those to come in the new year.
project-focus-llansawel-cottage
project-focus-hoe-farm-new-cartlodge

All that is left is to say a 'Merry Christmas' and sign off until 2025.

What does a Freelance Architect's Technician do?

Period Property Rear Extension

What makes my job exciting, working as a freelance Architect's Technician, is that no two projects that land on my desk are ever the same.

Some are full of design work, some a quick survey and others are the tricky research, statement and paperwork side that every jobs needs these days.

I offer the connection between clients, the local planners and built heritage officers as well as the link to builders, engineers and consultants. 

With an ever expending network of professionals to collaborate with I enjoy everywhere work takes me, whether that is working for an individual client, a Builder or an Architect.

For this post I thought I'd take this opportunity to answer a few common questions I get asked;

Where do you work?

Primarily I work in Carmarthenshire, though projects over the last year have led me into Neath Port Talbot and Powys and back to Essex, where I worked for many years before moving to Wales. I always love taking on projects closer to home because you get to see the wider community reaction and it is always encouraging to know that people are engaged and passionate about the local environment.

Working from my home office in Llandeilo I am incredibly fortunate that technology allows me to be anywhere in the world when taking on projects on behalf of Architect's and other Architectural Practices, recently covering London and Pembrokeshire.

It seems the days of an office full of drawings boards, tracing paper and A1 plotters are long ago but the fond memories of the early days of work are never far from my mind and no doubt have shaped the approach I have to projects now.

What projects do you take on?

If you are thinking about starting a project but are not sure where to then I can help but equally if you know exactly what you want and just need to get the application submitted then I can help with that too. I am as flexible as possible with the service I provide so that all projects can be up and running as the client requires.

Read more here ... 

Outline Planning | Full Planning | Householder Planning

Permitted Development | Listed Building | Retrospective

Listed Buildings

Change of Use Concept Design

Planning and Building Regulations

In the last year the most frequent projects have ranged from:

• preliminary advice enquiries
• concept designs for change of use
• householder and full planning applications
• listed building applications and heritage statement writing
• building notice and building regulations applications

What if I don't have a full project to do but need a drawing?

Then that is no problem, in the last year I have been asked to draft CAD plans, as well as 3D Revit models, for clients to gain information from Structural Engineer calculations, to business and street licensing applications and turning hand drawn plans into electronic ones to be worked on in the future and even to calculate the root spread of an oak tree.

Do the Planners always say "No!"

Surprisingly they don't! The key to what I do is balancing the brief from the clients and the experience I have with planning system responses to try and ensure positive outcomes although it is never 100% guaranteed unfortunately!

For all listed building and conservation area work the good news is that Carmarthenshire County Council has a very approachable Built Heritage Team who are always on hand to answer queries and engage with the community. They lead the way in sustainability and teaching and I have had the pleasure of attending a few of their events recently...which I will save for next time!

Project Focus | Hoe Farm | New Cartlodge next to a Listed Farmhouse

It was back in 2006, when I was living in Coggeshall in Essex, that I started working for PJB Architects and I have had the great pleasure of working for Francis, Jeff and Keith throughout the years since. As PJB sadly closed its doors in 2022 this is one of the projects that was fully passed over to me mid-planning which I have recently completed by remotely working with the client and builder.

Site Layout (Block Plan)

The Site

Hoe Farmhouse is set in an enviable location in the North Essex countryside close to the historic town of Colchester.

The site is a former farm complex comprising of four groups of buildings including a listed farmhouse, a modern former grain store, and two listed timber barns converted for residential use.

The Plans

The original brief was for a two storey cartlodge but this ended up paired back to space for three cars and a garden store close enough to the farmhouse but not so as to adversely effect the aesthesis of it. Although this seems a fairly straightforward request due to the sensitivity of the site it took a while and a few redesigns along the way to produce the single storey scheme that satisfied the client and the planners.

Concept, Proposed Plan and Elevations

Historic 1800's Maps

Heritage Statement

The Heritage Statement has been a key part of this application as the proposal site includes three listed buildings, two grade II and one II*.

Hoe Farmhouse itself is a two storey detached residential property in the vernacular style, it is designated grade II and was first listed in 1982.

The farmhouse has origins in the 16th century but was much altered from the 18th century onwards, as can be seen in historic map regression, including the addition of a front range constructed of Flemish-bond red brick. The roof is hipped and covered with clay peg tiles and formed of parallel ranges with valleys. The fenestration of the property consists of a mix of sashes and casements which are modern replacements.

Planning Conditions

As this was passed over mid-planning it created a unique situation where nine conditions were attached by Colchester City Council to the granted planning permission. One of the most important elements to then be taken on was to work through these to clear the conditions allowing the build to progress.

There were three conditions to address with additional drawn work and several more to address on site with the builders and other contractors but with the team working together nothing was impossible.

This project demonstrates that environmentally friendly elements can be also added, with thoughtful placing, no matter what. Air source heat pumps were a requirement from the client and with careful thought over their location and screening they have been successfully integrated to bring up to date, modern benefits, to this 16th century property.

The second condition addressed the details of the cartlodge; how would the eaves, verges, barge boards, windows and doors be finished? Although a new addition it was important that details were taken from and referenced back to the farmhouse.

Lastly the landscaping needed consideration to maintain the current standards and improve with new native planting where possible. A simple scheme, to be maintained for a minimum of five years, was created with the client. The considerations added to the plans included creating 1no sunny bed and 1no sun/shade bed, planting an area of new grass and additional new trees, as well as introducing new bird and bat boxes along with insect hotels creating a wholistic environmental and wildlife approach.

ASHP, Details and Landscape Planning Conditions

The Build

The first step of the build was to complete the archaeological dig and report the findings. Although this feels like a frustrating step that 'holds up' the build it is of great importance in our historic landscape. As the owner of a Listed and historic property you take on this responsibility to preserve and enhance your investment as its custodian.

To clear the final condition a materials pallet was selected and quickly approved on site so from then onwards the build ran smoothy thanks to the skills of Trevor Scott and his team; concluding that when all was completed it was "a very enjoyable job", a statement with which I concur.

Archaeological Dig and Build

Project Focus | Llansawel | Cottage Renovation and Extension

Back in 2021 I was approached to take on the Planning Application and Building Notice for a renovation and an extension to Llwyncelyn in Llansawel. The existing property was in need of a full renovation and a proposed new side extension was required to suit the needs of the family.

The client had a clear idea of what she wanted with a layout sketched out on graph paper ready to go. After completing a site survey this was translated into a 3D Revit model creating a full visualisation of the design the family were about to embark on building themselves.

Existing drawings from the survey

The Site

The site offers wonderful views across the valley and accordingly the brief was to create an interior from which these could be enjoyed. Connecting the existing single storey cottage to the new side extension on the sloping site was thought through carefully and an architectural relationship between the two halves and the view was formed.

Existing site and views

From the road it was important for the extension not to over shadow the existing cottage. This was achieved with a few simple tricks; firstly the 'pattern' in the front elevation of the cottage was replicated, as if it was always continuous, but then subtly the new ridge was designed to just tuck under the existing and by introducing a slight step back to the new front wall this left the existing cottage to be the prominent feature. 

Proposed perspective view from the road

The Plans

The plan was designed to create a welcoming environment with plenty of family space but still with areas available for quiet thought and study. The existing ground floor of the cottage has become a generous entrance hall with small cosy living spaces accessed from it. The original, stepped down, kitchen area has become a cloakroom, housing a toilet and sink, with the existing bathroom creating a separate spa like room with space for a large bath and walk in shower. 

If you haven't read 'The Importance of a Well-Designed Floor Plan' you can find it here: https://cmarchitectural15.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-importance-of-well-designed-floor.html 

Proposed ground floor plan

The advantage of the 3D modelling was clearest in allowing the client to see her layout in a new dimension and from there a level change down to the new extension was proposed and agreed. This allowed for a more generous ceiling height as you go through into the new, creating a bright, light filled space.

The architectural relationship this creates between the 'new and old' is important here as well. The separation allows for a different material pallet and an aesthetic that suits the new while allowing a clear distinction from the original cottage.

Proposed first floor plan

There was no first floor to the original cottage so a loft conversion was part of the brief. 

One of the reasons is that this would allow the self build project to have two phases to it. When the original cottage was renovated, with new bedroom space created, then time in the static caravan was significantly reduced.

The starting point of the new fist floor plan was "a master suite overlooking the view". By having a vaulted ceiling this has created a personal and unique space. The rest of the floor space was worked around this central idea with a forth bedroom added to the front for a truly remarkable renovation and extension providing plenty of flexibility for the family in the future.

Proposed perspective view from the garden

Proposed perspective view from the patio

The Details

As important as the views and connection to the wider landscape are so is an area of private outdoor space. A small and sheltered patio has been created tucked to the rear of the property.

To make the front elevation and requirement for a forth bedroom possible the front first floor wall has been pulled back creating an almost full height space. This is ideal for hiding some big screen and projector technology, leaving the side wall free to have a wood burner as a more traditional focal point in the main room.

The advantage of producing a 3D Revit model is that it allows for exploring options with materials and configuration before work begins on site. It provides a clear visualisation for a self builder whether they are experienced or not. 

An option of a different interior layout and an enclosed exterior patio were explored here along with different external material choices defining the old cottage and new extension.

This continues as a self build and has been a wonderful project to be a part of.

The Importance of a Well-Designed Floor Plan - Residential

Rhosmaen

The radio is on, a hot cup of tea is waiting (always) and the final changes are being made ready for this project to progress to a full planning application but in truth the success of this project revolves around the time taken to create a well-designed floor plan; I thought I would discuss how it can transform a home for this next post. 

... but as it was happiness day (two days ago but who’s counting) I had to start with this photo that captures my Christmas Cactus flowering away on my desk in March! 

The plan not only serves as the foundation for well-designed and well-functioning living but in this project (Rhosmaen) in particular it considers the needs of multi-generational co-habiting while providing a future income potential by means of B&B ensuite rooms. Most important is a functional and harmonious environment with arrangement and organisation of rooms to create minimal traffic flow with focus on the spatial relationships between the rooms and consideration of the inhabitants in them. The heart of a good floor plan is the efficient utilisation of the space available. By carefully planning the placement of rooms, walls and other elements, the usable area is maximised and dark or wasted space is avoided. 

How do you start? 

It is rare that any two projects start in the same way but “where do you enter the dwelling, is it always at the same point?” is a good first question I tend to ask. In terms of a renovation project, you most likely have a good basis to assess what works and what doesn’t so that will naturally create a focus. It is as important, however, to consider vertical movement as well as horizontal. 

Llandeilo

This loft conversion (Llandeilo) intends to make the most of every square millimetre of this terraced cottage. The 3D quality of this space is important to consider with the steep valleys of the roof above. On plan it may seem to work seamlessly but as the front is connected to the rear the head height through a new doorway needed to be carefully assessed, a will be again during the work on site. 

A well-designed floor plan enhances functionality and convenience. It considers the daily activities and needs of the occupants, ensuring that essential areas such as the kitchen, bedrooms, toilets and bathrooms are well-placed. A functional floor plan promotes a smooth flow of movement as you progress your daily activities and facilitates efficient daily routines. 

Llansawel

When extending it is important to consider the connection between ‘the new and the old’, the flow between the different elements and the material qualities that may represent the different periods of a building. This project (Llansawel) was a substantial transformation of a small cottage, by stepping down into the new, from smaller cosy rooms to one large open living/dining/sitting space there are several elements that make a clear distinction from the existing. 

Beyond this, a well-designed floor plan enhances the overall aesthetics of your home. It allows for creating visually appealing spaces that reflect your style, taste, creating an environment you are as comfortable with as you are proud of. The layout of rooms, the placement of windows and the access to natural light can significantly impact the ambience of your home and feeling of well-being. 

The consideration of natural light and ventilation is an important factor. Thoughtful placement of windows, doors and openings is necessary. Allowing ample natural light to flood your home to create a bright and inviting atmosphere will serve to benefit your health long term. Creating cross ventilation and promoting fresh air circulation will allow for a healthier indoor environment. 

Llansawel

This project (Llansawel cont.) presented many opportunities while working through the plans. The extension to the cottage, to the front elevation, looks even smaller than the existing but as the land to the rear drops away the plan could really open up. Taking advantage of the views across the valley with floor to ceiling glazing was impossible to resist but an added gem was sneaking a view down the valley through a long slot window, making the mundane task of ‘doing the dishes’ just a little more enjoyable. 

A good floor plan allows for flexibility and adaptability to meet changing needs in lifestyle and due to age. It considers potential future modifications or expansions and provides the framework to accommodate them. A flexible floor plan will ensure that spaces can suit evolving requirements, ultimately saving time and money in the long run. 

Llansawel

But it doesn’t end there; a well-designed floor plan will ensure privacy and noise control within your home. Strategically placing bedrooms, bathrooms and quiet areas away from high-traffic zones or noisy areas will create a calming environment. Comfortable and peaceful living spaces are important in today’s busy environment. 

Structure, materials and services can be thought through early to aid a smooth running and cost-effective project. It can be ensured that structural elements provide equal support and line through, materials can both reduce consumption while building and create economical long-term running costs and fore thought placement of services will create an efficient environment and aid to reduce costs from unnecessary redesigns.