February News

February heralds in the aconites, snowdrops and even a struggling primrose or two.  What a mixed bag of weather we had during February – spring-like days, and extreme winter too.  Of course, we must not forget that the 19^th was “pancake day”, and the start of Lent, for which Monica has bravely given up eating cake and biscuits!  However, we have noticed that this does not include the munching of chocolate.

•    Plans for the remodelling of a large Farmhouse in Essex have been submitted for pre-application advice.  The proposed works see the majority of later additions to the C17^th lobby entrance house being demolished, with the original plan of the house then reinstated; and the addition of a generous but sympathetic extension, making this dwelling a comfortable home for the client.  We will await a response from the Local Authority and, subject to a positive response, submit a full planning application for the works.
• Following a positive response from both the Local Authority and English Heritage, the Full Plans and Listed Building application has been submitted for an extension and outhouse conversion to a Grade II* farmhouse in Hertfordshire.  As we are preparing working drawings whilst awaiting the response from the Local Authority, assuming that a positive response is received, work should be able to start immediately.
• At a Grade II Listed country home in Essex, the negotiated tender continues for the conversion of a Georgian flint outbuilding to a home-office.
• The landscaping is progressing very well at a Grade II listed Regency house in Essex.  The annexe is now completed, so do watch our website for photographs coming shortly!
•  We are very excited to be working on concept designs with other great designers, to create something very special for a Grade II Listed house and annexe in Essex.
•   We are still exploring alternative energies, with the expectation of the new domestic heating incentive for a Grade II Listed former rectory in Hertfordshire.
• Submission has been made to the Local Authority for Planning Permission for works to another Grade II Listed former rectory in Hertfordshire, and we are awaiting a response from the Local Authority.
• Design of the Community Library at Finchingfield Guildhall is progressing well.  This will be a compact but friendly and comfortable space, which it is hoped many people will use and enjoy.
• At a C16^th Hall House in Essex, R J Hogg & Sons are erecting a timber-frame Sun Room.  Timber framed glazed screens are ready for installation.  Underfloor heating has been laid.  The first floor is ready for first fix, and final preparations are being made for decorations.
• The roof has been completed on a C16^th Court Barn in Essex, and new, breathable floors have been laid.
•   We have undertaken a survey on an C18^th, unlisted house in Essex, and survey drawings are currently being prepared.
• Plans have been submitted to the Local Authority for a Breakfast Room/Orangery extension and other works to a beautiful Arts and Crafts Grade II Listed house in Essex. 
• A planning application is being prepared for a C16^th Grade II Listed Farmhouse.  Assuming a favourable response from the Local Authority, works will return this house to its former glory; and a frameless glazed structure will link the house and stable block.
• We have reached Practical Completion at The Gatehouse, The House of Retreat, Pleshey.
• We have received several enquiries throughout the month, and Sibyl has been out to visit most of the properties, discussing proposed works with the prospective clients.
•  Initial pre- application advice has been requested for a new-build eco-home within the grounds of an old orchard in Essex.  The new house would be constructed of traditional materials, sourced as locally as possible.  If the response from the Local Authority is positive, both low-tech and high-tech sustainable methods will be researched for viable use on the project.
•    Our professional photographer, Michael Cameron, has taken some fantastic photos of Radwinter, Leytonstone, Bush End and Great Chesterford Churches.  Take a look at a few of these on our Images of the Month, and also in our Projects/Churches.  www.michaelcameronphotography.co.uk/
•  Poor Sarah has spent some time in hospital this month, following the collapse of one of her lungs.