The Future of the Farm Yard?

With the recent planning approval for our Bridge Farm Cohousing project in Somerset, and other exciting agricultural redevelopment projects in Devon starting up, we've been reflecting on what fantastic opportunities lie in the conversion of old farms and farm buildings. The unique style, proximity and historic nature of farm yards, present many great characteristics that can, if aptly incorporated, create wonderful homes and nurture community.

Bridge Farm provides 12 new homes - many more than would be possible under a more conventional development model - 60% of which are to be affordable in perpetuity. These homes, a mix of 1, 2, and 3 bed dwellings, are planned around shared courtyards (but each have their own private external space too). They sit in a wider communal landscape with facilities including a common house, workshops and business units, and 6 acres of land. The combination of historic fabric, energy efficient conversions and new-build elements, creates a rich tapestry that connects past to future.

In the current rural environment, where farming practices are evolving and diversifying, farms and their requirements for building stock are changing. We are finding more and more clients are looking to explore ways to future-proof these buildings and the rural economies they sit within. One-off homes, multi-house schemes, and live-work dwellings are an obvious avenue but we're also working on new commercial/lifestyle projects like a tiny-house retreat, and a yoga + wellness centre, both in the South Hams, Devon.

Cohousing is a term that can put people off but it's a 'broad church' – elements that are shared or communal can range from just parking zones or landscaping, right through to a common house and shared guest bedrooms. We are huge fans of this model and its diversity! As a means of collective custom-build the farmyard presents a great opportunity – and opens up development possibilities that might not be available to the individual. So if you're a land owner looking to diversify, or a self-builder looking to chip in with friends to build a community, we can help explore ideas and bring your dreams to reality

Also some exciting and related news – watch this space!

There is the potential for Class Q to be extended to AONBs in the near future. Barn conversions have long since been a way for our clients to acquire their own slice of the rural idle and to design and build their own home. These projects are great and we've done both modern and historic, listed conversion projects. More of these becoming available is an exciting prospect for us and anyone wanting a 'grand design' of their own!

Team Away Day

Part 3 - How Long Will it Take?