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.

Part 2 ... Outline Planning | Full Planning | Householder Planning | Permitted Development | Listed Building | Retrospective

I deviated for my last post as I decided to celebrate International Women's Day and show my face to celebrate being a female in a (still) very male dominated industry. The funny thing is I never thought of it like that when I went off to university, I simply pursued what I enjoy and I continue that today!

So with that said I shall return to trying to make this planning system a little clearer for those wondering 'what does it all mean and how do you know which one is best for your project?'

Permitted Development | Listed Building | Retrospective

IN SUMMARY:

Permitted Development: you can make a number of smaller changes to your property without needing to apply for planning permission. This is good for the addition of a small conservatory or a loft conversion but it is always worth considering other options as this approach could lead to unnecessary compromises and restrictions.

Listed Building: consent is required for all works to a listed building that affect its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. This consent is likely to be required alongside a full or householder application.

Retrospective: this is not an ideal approach but for work that has already been completed without an approved application this is needed to complete permission.

PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT:

The most common permitted developments are small rear extensions to properties but it is not quite as simple as that because they are subject to various limits and restrictions; including those on their height, size and location. As a general rule a single storey rear extension must not extend beyond the rear wall of your house by more than 4 metres and cannot exceed 4 metres in height (subject to roof conditions met).

The rules cover a lot more than just length and height for example; as a result of the works, the total area of ground covered by building within the curtilage of the property cannot exceed 50% of the total remaining area of the curtilage.

In terms of rear extensions the height of the part enlarged, improved or altered cannot exceed the height of the highest part of the roof of the existing, same is the case for the eaves so this may exclude some single storey properties. There are further considerations about height depending on the pitch of the roof required, many to discourage building higher with a flat roof. Another consideration must be the proximity to the boundary. If the proposal is to be within 2 metres of the boundary then a differing set of rules will apply. 

The proposal cannot extend beyond a wall comprised in the principal elevation of the original property and should remain 5 metres from the highway, this is also generally encouraged against in most planning applications, though there is always the possibility of the exception to the rule depending on the individual property!

Side extensions of more than one storey are now considered under permitted development but with the size restrictions in place there is likely little gain for the effort to achieve this and, as I suggested above, all options should be considered so that you are not making unnecessary compromises to the quality of the space you create. 

Outbuildings are considered under permitted development if they are not located in front of the building line of the principal elevation, they do not extend beyond the side elevation of the house, any part of the development within 2 metres of a boundary of the house does not exceed a height of 2.5 metres or any part of the development within 2 metres of the house does not exceed a height of 1.5 metres. Outbuildings cannot exceed more than one storey in height and are subject to similar height rules, depending on the pitch of the roof, as extensions.

Permitted development rights do not usually apply to Listed Buildings and in areas subject to environmental protection. If your property is situated within a National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty or a conservation area, then further discussions would be needed to determine if the proposal falls within permitted development.

Most work that does not require planning permission because it is permitted development is still likely to need Building Regulations approval. 

LISTED BUILDING CONSENT:

Back in January I chatted through what a Listed Building is; if you have missed it take a look HERE, but what is required for a Listed Building Application?

Any extension or significant alteration will require a Listed Building Application, this is a similar process to any other planning application but with particular attention paid to the heritage features and details. The main difference to the application is the requirement of a Heritage Statement; a key document of research used to both inform the design and justify the decisions made during the process.

Adding an extension to a listed building needs to be carefully considered. In the first instance, it is important that there is an understanding of the particular character of the building, how it has evolved over time and how its sits within its surroundings. Any new extension should not dominate the listed building and therefore should be smaller in scale and height. A rear extension will generally have less impact on a historic building as it cannot be seen from the front of the building, although a side extension may also work well. Extensions that project to the front of a Listed Building are rarely given permission, as the front elevation is generally the most important and most visible part of the building. The design, style and materiality of a new extension also need to be carefully considered so that they are sympathetic and complementary to the character of the listed building.

Many elements of maintenance will also require permission. I have had submitted applications for all sorts of different minor works; more recently from shop windows and doors to rear extensions, general maintenance and boundary walls. Quite often this leads on to requiring an understanding of local design guides, tree protection orders and other material and ecology considerations.

Historic windows and doors are usually very important to the character of a listed building and contribute to significance through design, materials and workmanship. The retention of historic carpentry that contributes to this significance is therefore encouraged.

Pointing contributes to the visual appearance of a building in both colour and profile and so repointing large areas of a building will require consent.

Any work to repair a roof will almost certainly require consent. Even when re-using existing slates or tiles it is likely that replacing those damaged, and also broken during removal, will be required, typically this could be up to 25%.

There is a growing recognition of the need to improve the thermal efficiency of buildings, but whilst the energy efficiency of older buildings can be improved it is unlikely they will ever match the performance of modern buildings. Where energy efficiency measures are undertaken correctly, there is a real opportunity to have a positive effect on the building, provided that two key principles are observed:

• that the materials used are appropriate to the building, and in most cases water-vapour permeable:
• that adequate ventilation is maintained.

RETROSPECTIVE PLANNING:

If you have gone ahead without the required permission the council may simply ask you to apply retrospectively but that will depend on the nature of the development and its effect on neighbours. If the council considers that the development involves a breach of planning control, it may take it further with remedial enforcement action.

There are time limits also attached to submitting a Retrospective Application so as soon as you are aware of an issue it is best to address it.

For further advice

Call me on 07584992755 or contact me at cmarchitectural15@gmail.com

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

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

Hello & Welcome

 I probably should have started with an introduction to myself but ... better late than never! 

"Hello, I am | Charlotte | dw i, Shwmae"

2024 has already taken a different turn to how I imagined it would be and I am focusing more on building CM Architectural which is happily going from strength to strength quicker than I imagined. So why not add another something new? Inspired by many established designers I decided to start this blog to run alongside my architectural work so I can have an outlet to share a little more about what I do, answer a few of the regular questions I get and also, as suggested in the title, share more of my interests in Architecture, Design, Art and Culture, the possibilities are endless!

My background is as an Architect's Technician and I have always had a love for Architecture. I began my career on the borders of Essex and Suffolk, England but these days I am found in the beautiful countryside in Carmarthenshire, Wales after moving this way more than 10 years ago. I have always chosen to work in a small practice because I enjoy following the process from that initial concept through to completion and working closely with the client to bring their ideas to life. My favourite kind of feedback is "that looks exactly as I imagined, how did you do that!"

Alongside running my business I am currently the Mayor Elect in Llandeilo. I joined Llandeilo Town Council in 2021 after being encouraged to by a friend and I am so glad I did! Five years ago it was something I never considered but currently being Deputy Mayor is a role I am relishing and proud to be carrying out. 

This wonderful community in Carmarthenshire is one that is quite unique and the Welsh Language is as freely spoken and supported here as the English Language with conversations flowing as a beautiful combination of the two languages. Dw i'n hefyd yn dysgu cymraeg, yn araf ond mae'n mynd yn dda! I can not think of a better town to represent than Llandeilo.

I am not 100% sure how true it is but "Blogs are not dead" was a title that caught my eye a while ago and was presented as the go to among those in the creative industries! I am quite sure, however, that whatever it may be it's the effort you put in that returns the results! A quick google search shows writing a blog (or not) has been a frequent topic of conversation over the last year with the general conclusion that they are a good way to compliment what you do and move away from sole reliability on social media. So, with that to spur me on, an additional creative outlet can't be a bad thing in my mind, especially after the last few years of uncertainty after, dare I say it, covid. The communities that form through blogs are wonderfully supportive and encouraging so I hope you will join me by following this years developments.

I have often thought about writing but have never quite found the words! Many years ago, when I was a regular visitor to the south of Spain, I would often pick up a local magazine that covered all aspect of art & design with interesting articles documenting what's on in galleries all over Europe. It didn't run for that long but ever since the first copy I have been inspired to create my own version, maybe this will be the beginning...

A snapshot about me:

Architects that inspire me - Zaha Hadid and Eileen Gray

While I work I listen to - BBC Radio Wales (Wynne Evans makes me laugh!)

Instagram interiors I follow - Lisa Dawson, Greg Penn and Paddy O'Donnell

Creators I admire - Australian sisters Elle Watson and Lauren Bullen

Favourite authors - Anthony Horowitz and Michael Connelly

Coffee table books - 10x10, Phaidon Atlas of Contemporary Architecture and The Iconic British House

Favourite local independent shops - Dewi Roberts Butchers, Heavenly and Peppercorn (Visit Llandeilo)