Creative & Sustainable Design for Residential Projects
Joshua Hovey is a RIBA Chartered Architect & Certified Passivhaus Designer, Serving Somerset and Surrounding Areas
Sustainable & Innovative
New-Build
We help self-builders looking to design their dream eco-home, and land owners looking to maximise the potential of their plot. We have a proven track record of securing planning permission within challenging design constraints such as conservation areas, national parks, AONBs and near listed buildings.
Contemporary Extensions
We design beautiful contemporary extensions. Transform your living space by adding natural light, improving the connection with the outdoors and creating harmony between spaces.
Listed and Heritage Property Alterations
Do you have a listed building or period Somerset property which lacks natural light, feels disconnected from the outside and has poor flow between living spaces? We are experts at turning period properties into functional homes, customised for modern living.
Sensitively Designed Barn Conversions
We are architects skilled at working with listed buildings such as barn conversions, in conservation areas and AONBs and with complex design constraints. Let us help you to make the best use of your existing building.
Somerset Architects | Joshua Hovey Architects
Key Design Considerations When Planning a Project in Somerset
Understanding Somerset's Architectural Landscape
When embarking on a new architectural project in Somerset, architects must first grasp the unique characteristics of the region's architectural landscape. Somerset boasts a rich history reflected in its diverse architectural styles, ranging from traditional English cottages to Georgian manors and modern developments. By understanding the local architectural heritage, architects can ensure that their designs harmonize with the surrounding environment while meeting the needs and preferences of clients.
Navigating Planning Regulations and Conservation Areas
Somerset is home to numerous conservation areas, national parks, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), each with its own set of planning regulations and guidelines. Architects must navigate these regulations effectively to secure planning permission for their projects. Additionally, working within conservation areas requires a sensitive approach to design, preserving the historic fabric of the built environment while incorporating modern amenities and functionalities.
Integration of Sustainable Design Principles
Incorporating sustainable design principles is paramount when planning architectural projects in Somerset. With a growing emphasis on environmental conservation and energy efficiency, architects must prioritize sustainable building materials, energy-efficient systems, and passive design strategies. By integrating these elements into their designs, architects not only reduce the environmental impact of buildings but also enhance their long-term resilience and performance in Somerset's varied climate.
Respecting Somerset's Rural Character
Much of Somerset's charm lies in its picturesque rural landscapes and quaint villages. When designing projects in rural areas, architects must respect the region's rural character and vernacular architecture. This may involve utilizing local materials, adopting traditional building techniques, and designing buildings that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. By doing so, architects contribute to the preservation of Somerset's rural identity while creating buildings that enhance their surroundings.