Category / Design / Design & Dev

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  • Woolacombe

    Planning approval for Woolacombe holiday apartments

    PMA have this month obtained planning approval for the development of a property in Woolacombe. This substantial property, located in the heart of this most popular of coastal villages, is currently a mixed use current being a large House of Multiple Occupation (HMO), Launderette and Office now has consent to convert to 6 holiday letting…

  • Class Q fallback position

    Does Class Q give the best outcome for barns?

    Current legislation provides a unique opportunity to convert qualifying existing agricultural structures, commonly referred to as Class Q, into residential units. Having Class Q permitted development approval, are there further opportunities? Yes, potentially under the fallback position. You can possibly unlock the potential of your underutilised or redundant agricultural buildings if the building qualifies under…

  • Off-grid living, a growing trend

    Following research done by scientists Copernicus Climate Change Service 2023 has been declared as the hottest on Earth, ever since records began; 2024 could be even hotter. It is therefore no coincidence that the interest in building sustainable and off-plan homes is on the increase. “We are receiving an increasing number of enquirers from people…

  • Victorian

    New phase for an Ilfracombe Victorian Oliver building

    Wander around The Torrs, Ilfracombe and see examples of Victorian architecture, larger villa-style buildings intended as grand, spacious private residences; Ilfracombe at its most affluent, at the height of its popularity, with a prestigious national reputation. Over time, several later became schools; Ilfracombe College, the Convent of the Immaculate Conception and Hereford House School. The…

  • Diminishing slates

    Diminishing-sized slates, a nice detail in Dorset

    The rich variety of construction styles are evident throughout the UK, and a reason why so many international visitors praise the history in our buildings. PMA has been appointed architects for this inspirational, major project for 2024, which has taken us to Dorset, working with some fabulous range of traditional stone agricultural buildings. With a…

  • Solar panel

    New rules make solar panels fitting easier

    We’ve seen that the awareness of solar panels has changed over the years, so that now, without exception, our early client meetings feature discussions around energy efficiency, running costs and sustainability. Small initial steps maybe, but absolutely critical steps, with standards improving, cost efficiencies being developed and UK legislation and regulations supporting progress. Rules introduced…

  • Barns

    How to convert a barn –  8 things for success

    Creating your dream home can be extremely exciting and very rewarding. One way to achieve something unique is to convert a barn. Converting a barn is big project, but with the right advice and guidance, careful planning, a respectful and creative design approach with sound financial budgeting, the outcomes can be awesome. Start with a…

  • Fallback position

    “Fallback position” used for replacement of rural dwelling with Class Q approval

    Usually in the architectural world, the right outcome is rarely easy or obvious? Our aspiration is always the best outcome and often this requires a planned approach and strategy, which needs to be reviewed against progress. In this instance we advised that the fallback position provided an opportunity. Director Perry Mears explained “Generally, a planning…

  • Multigenerational living

    We’re featured in Attivo Life, on multigenerational living

    A recent survey finds that multigenerational living in the UK could be set to triple by 2040. We were delighted to be featured in Attivo Life, in an insight into this trend, by Nicky Rampley-Clarke. A growing trend are buildings that can be for say, grandchildren, parents and grandchildren, all together, which they can all…