Listed Building Works | Llandeilo | Farmhouse

🏡✨ Roof complete on this beautiful old farmhouse ✨📸

We are pleased to share progress on the listed building works to this characterful farmhouse in Llandeilo, where the major phase of roof repairs has now been successfully completed.

This project forms part of a carefully considered programme of conservation-led refurbishment, with the roof works delivered by Joseph Donath Carpentry & Tiling (@donath_carpentry). The approach was firmly rooted in retaining the historic integrity of the building while ensuring it is properly protected for the long term.

Roof Works – Conservation-Led Repair

The roof has been stripped, repaired and re-covered using existing and reclaimed slates, allowing the original appearance and material palette of the farmhouse to be preserved. Alongside this, essential but discreet upgrades were undertaken to address underlying defects and improve performance.

As a result, the roof is now fully weather-tight, structurally sound, and ready to protect the building for decades to come, without compromising its historic character.

Works allowed under the Listed Building Consent include:

• Repair and re-covering of the roof using existing and reclaimed slates
• New and repaired roof lining throughout
• Renewal of lead flashings to chimneys and dormers
• Removal of redundant modern Velux windows and replacement where appropriate
• Repair and replacement of fascia's and soffits to match existing details
• Repair and upgrading of guttering and downpipes, with improved extended drainage detailing

Ecology Constraints & Bat Licensing

A key factor in programming the works was the ecological sensitivity of the property, with confirmed bat presence identified through survey work. As is often the case with traditional rural buildings, the roof spaces provide suitable bat habitats, requiring a licensed and a carefully managed approach.

The project therefore required collaboration with ecologists, ensuring all works were carried out strictly in accordance with approved bat survey findings, mitigation measures and bat licence conditions.

These requirements dictated the programme and limited the construction window, reinforcing the importance of early ecological assessment and careful coordination between all parties.

Listed Building Consent & Technical Documentation

C M Architectural successfully secured Listed Building Consent for the roof works and a wider programme of associated maintenance works, to be delivered on a phased basis.

The application drawings and plans were supported by:

• A detailed Heritage Statement assessing the building’s significance
• A comprehensive Plan of Works setting out repair methods and materials
• Ongoing liaison with the local authority conservation officer and ecological consultees

Wider Project Scope

In addition to the roof works, the wider consented scheme includes repairs to a garden wall and entrance gate. These elements required additional permission to demonstrate the consideration of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and root protection areas, with construction methods adapted to avoid damage to retained trees.

A Collaborative Result

This project is a strong example of how traditional materials, sensitive detailing, ecological responsibility and skilled workmanship can come together to future-proof a listed building while respecting its historic and environmental context.

The completed roof marks a significant milestone in the wider programme of works and we look forward to seeing the remaining phases progress. 👏

While the need to secure multiple permissions for what may initially appear to be straightforward or essential maintenance can feel daunting, this project demonstrates that, with the right level of assessment, coordination and documentation, such works are entirely achievable. I am always happy to discuss similar projects and guide clients through the process.

An Everlasting Tree for Ffairfach — A Community Project to be Proud Of

I am thrilled to have played a small part in helping this wonderful community project — the creation of the Everlasting Tree at Cornel y Tywysog, near the newsagents in Ffairfach — move from vision to reality.

Earlier this year, I was approached by Dyffryn Cennen Community Council, to help realise the vision held by Delyth Beynon, former Chair, of a permanent steel tree to replace the temporary Christmas tree that was sited there annually.

And finally, I am pleased to share that Planning Permission has been approved!

From our side, the role focused on the joy of bringing the project to life visually. Turning the manufacturing drawing by Onnen Studios into a 3D conceptual model was a genuinely enjoyable challenge — one that allowed me to explore how the sculpture, seating and landscaping would interact in the small space. 

Once the technical challenges were met, the role turned to securing planning permission, ensuring that all the necessary conditions — particularly around ecology and traffic management during construction — were satisfied. These elements required additional consideration to respect the local environment and maintain safety at this busy junction. It is always interesting to see how design and planning come together to serve a shared community purpose.

The finished result — designed and crafted so beautifully by the talented team at Onnen Studios — speaks for itself. Made from solid steel, galvanised in Cardiff and silver powder-coated in Narberth, the tree stands as a striking and lasting symbol of creativity, collaboration and community pride.

I am delighted to see how positively the local community has embraced the new sculpture
— with so many comments and likes on social media, it is clear this project has touched many people.

Congratulations to everyone involved — from the makers and helpers to the local residents who supported the idea from the start. I can’t wait to see the tree lit throughout the year and decorated for all the seasons and celebrations to come. 🌳✨

Thanks to Mark Revitt for the photos: https://www.facebook.com/share/17iD9SP3o8/