CB|Architect
Royston, Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire / Cambridgeshire / Bedfordshire / Essex/ Suffolk
(1)
Royston, Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire / Cambridgeshire / Bedfordshire / Essex/ Suffolk
(1)
CB|Architects offers a specialist Turn Key -Small Works Department for:
- Extension Projects
- Internal Alteration Projects
- Garage Conversions
- Loft Conversions
- Including External Alterations & Existing House Transformations
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1 customer review
Gordon
Architectural Services
Really appreciated what we are trying to achieve and came up with sensible solutions. Brought builder along too which enabled us to understand cost implications as well. Highly recommended.
How can someone tell if their Garage is suitable for conversion?
Planning Assessment: Permission is unnecessary if you don't plan to alter the structure of the building, so a garage conversion is permitted in most circumstances. However, detached garages are more likely to require 'change of use' planning permission when converted to habitable rooms.
You will need planning permission: If you live in a listed building; If the garage conversion increases your home beyond permitted development rights;
You are converting the space for business; Your council has restrictions on reducing parking.
Run us through the different stages of the Garage conversion process - what's involved?
1) Design and space planning;
2) Planning permission;
3) Building regulations;
4) Typical construction items of note include requirements for:
- Insulation and damp proofing;
- Plumbing and wiring;
- Flooring;
- Walls;
- Windows and doors.
How can someone tell if their loft is suitable for conversion?
Planning Assessment:
Planning permission is not normally required for a loft conversion, and is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, subject to the following limits and conditions: A volume allowance of 40 cubic metres additional roof space for terraced houses*; A volume allowance of 50 cubic metres additional roof space for detached and semi-detached houses*; No extension beyond the plane of the existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts the highway; No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof; Materials to be similar in appearance to the existing house; No verandas, balconies or raised platforms; Side-facing windows to be obscure-glazed; any opening to be 1.7m above the floor ;Roof extensions not to be permitted development in designated areas; Roof extensions, apart from hip to gable ones, to be set back, as far as practicable, at least 20cm from the original eaves; The roof enlargement cannot overhang the outer face of the wall of the original house.
When Planning Permission is Required:
The newly converted space is over 50m³ (40m³ for a terraced home); the dormer is beyond the plane of the existing roof slope on the front elevation; the dormer is higher than the current highest part of the roof (this is often the case in mansard style extensions); you want to include side windows that are non-obscure glazed and/or less than 1.7m above the floor; you live in a specially designated area such as a Conservation Area or your home is listed; the dormer will be within 20cm of the eaves.
Run us through the different stages in the loft conversion process - what’s involved?
1) The roof space is inspected for suitability ;
2) Architect will confirm suitability and create plans;
3) (Planning permission);
4) Building regulations;
5) Typical construction items of note include requirements for:
- Loft to be cleared and prepped. Rewiring is assessed ;
- New floor joists fitted; Floors are insulated;
- Floorboards laid; Rafters reinforced;
- Dormers installed (if applicable);
- Rooflights installed;
- Staircase fitted;
- Dormers tiled and vents fitted;
- Windows fitted in dormers;
- The roof is insulated;
- Electrics upgraded;
- Water, electrics and eaves storage;
- Plasterboarded and architrave/skirting;
- Bathrooms & extraction fitted;
- Second fix, heating and finishes;
- Decorating.
What do you love most about your job?
Collaboration. I love my job because everyone shares the same vision and is dedicated to the mission. Work-Life Balance. I love that I have a great degree of control and freedom within my job.
Autonomy.
Variety.
Culture.
Challenge.
Helping Others.
What inspired you to start your own business?
From a young age I always wanted my own company, when I was nearing the end of architectural education I worked for as many companies as possible to learn as much as I could, what worked and what didn’t. Prior to becoming a fully-qualified architect I embarked short expeditions across Europe and this eventually led to start our own company. Initially I worked for a high-end architectural company in Hertfordshire and part time wrote about modular and transient architecture around the world . To practice/work as an Architect you need to be RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) qualified and be listed on the ARB Register of Architects. (Architects Registration Board).
Why should our clients choose you?
- CBArchitects have Key Industry Experience in undertaking small works development projects. (ie . projects under 500k ).
- We are embedded with the Key Technical Skills to take Client projects from paper to reality.
- We are equipped with the Key Soft Skills to support all our client project needs,
- We display an impressive array of Key Accomplishments to demonstrate and support an a variety of design and building knowledge.
- Shortlisted for local Awards/accolades.
- Maintain an impressive Education/Training background to help deliverer projects successfully.
