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Transforming homes with good design

Breathing new life into homes through thoughtful design to create timeless transformations – with words by Drift Magazine

transforming home with design Living Space Architects

Living space architects craft spaces that elevate every day living, blending heritage sensitivity with cutting edge technology. From Exeter urban restorations to Devon‘s rural retreats, their designs are shaped by sustainability, craftsmanship and place.

This extension to a mid century home in East Devon transformed it small cellular living spaces, seamlessly linking the home to its garden. Opening up walls improve flow, while carefully framed openings drew natural light deep into the interior.

With expertise in South West planning regulations, from new homes in Areas of Outstanding Beauty, to conservation area restorations, they have a proven record of planning success. Using laser scanning, 3d models and virtual reality walkthroughs, Living Space refines every detail to ensure refurbishments and extensions sit effortlessly within their context. 

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Honouring the Past, Designing for the Future

Transforming Period Properties with Sensitivity and Vision

At Living Space Architects, we believe that period properties are more than beautiful structures—they are custodians of architectural heritage and personal memory. Whether you own a listed building or an older home with character, our role is to help you adapt it—sensitively and sustainably—for contemporary life.

We work with homeowners throughout the South West to breathe new life into buildings of historic value, combining conservation expertise with discreet environmental upgrades and bespoke design solutions.

Reimagining Period Living

Period properties offer charm, craftsmanship, and a tangible connection to the past. But they can also present challenges: inefficient layouts, outdated heating systems, or difficulty navigating planning consents and heritage guidance. Our team is experienced in addressing these issues with considered, context-specific design.

We help you retain what you love, enhance what needs support, and gently integrate the elements that make daily life more comfortable and efficient.

A Balanced Approach to Sustainability

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Refurbishing older homes for improved environmental performance requires a careful balance. We design energy upgrades that respect historic construction—breathable insulation, reversible interventions, and heritage-appropriate materials and detailing.

Where appropriate, we incorporate low-impact technologies such as air source heat pumps, secondary glazing, and solar energy systems, all tailored to each building’s context and fabric.

Selected Projects

• The Thatched Cottage, Devon
A Grade II listed cob-and-thatch home, transformed with a sensitively detailed oak-framed garden room and targeted sustainability upgrades. Lime plaster, original beams and traditional materials were retained, maintaining a strong dialogue with the building’s rural setting.

• The Old Rectory, East Devon

A comprehensive upgrade to a Georgian rectory, including breathable insulation, underfloor heating via a renewable energy system, and joinery restoration. The result: a home that supports modern family life while honouring its heritage.

• The Coach House, Exeter

A disused historic outbuilding reimagined as a calm, low-energy dwelling. Interventions included reclaimed materials, a green roof, and carefully restored stonework—retaining its character while increasing performance and livability.

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Amendments To the Class Q Permitted Development Right (May 2024)

The UK Government has introduced significant changes to the Class Q permitted development right, which facilitates the conversion of agricultural buildings into dwellings. These amendments will take effect from 21st May 2024. While the increase in the maximum allowable dwellings from five to ten has grabbed headlines, there are several other key points to consider. Let’s explore them:

1. Increased Allowance and Floorspace

  • The maximum number of dwellings that can be created within an agricultural unit has doubled, now allowing up to ten dwellings.
  • The maximum floorspace for new dwellings has been set at 1,000 sq.m.
  • However, individual dwellings cannot exceed 150 sq.m in size.

2. New Build Single-Storey Rear Extensions

  • You can now add a single-storey rear extension (up to 4m) to your converted barn, provided it is on an existing hardstanding.
  • This extension can enhance the functionality and living space of your dwelling.

3. Qualification Criteria for Barns

  • To take advantage of the permitted development right, your barn must meet specific criteria:
    • Land Use History: The site must have been part of an established agricultural unit on or before 24th July 2023. Even if the barn is no longer in agricultural use, it may still qualify if it remains part of an established agricultural unit.
    • Access and Space Standards: Barns must have suitable access to a public highway and comply with nationally prescribed minimum space standards.
    • Protected Areas: Certain barns, such as those in listed buildings, Conservation Areas, or National Landscapes (formerly AONBs), cannot benefit from Class Q.
    • Seek professional advice to determine if your barn qualifies under the new criteria.

4. Transitional Arrangements

  • If you’re considering a larger dwelling (exceeding 150 sq.m), there’s good news! The amended legislation provides a ‘window of opportunity’ until 21st May 2025 for those wishing to apply under the previous Class Q criteria.
  • This allows flexibility for specific circumstances.

In Summary

While the headlines focus on increased dwelling allowances, it’s essential to understand the nuances of the new legislation. If you’re planning a barn conversion, seek professional advice to navigate the process effectively.

For bespoke advice related to the Class Q changes and their implications for your development projects, feel free to get in touch with us at Living Space Architects. We’re here to assist you! 🌟

Remember, each barn has its unique story waiting to be transformed into a beautiful home! 🏡✨

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