Architecture & Building Surveying
Architecture & Building Surveying Smiths Gore’s Architect’s and Building Surveyor’s department is the design, construction, conservation and maintenance element of our property consultancy business. The department offers a multitude of specialist skills across a range of diverse disciplines with our Chartered RIBA and RICA Practices. We recognise the importance and appreciate the value of all types of property whether it’s commercial, farm buildings, family homes, tenanted cottages, estates, castles, churches or ancient monuments. As professionals in the industry we seek to balance the financial considerations of any project with the practical and the aesthetic requirements of our clients. We work with owners, prospective purchasers, estate
and property managers, local authorities, charities, schools and ecclesiastical organisations to design, maintain, conserve and upgrade a variety of buildings. Our team has a rich history of repairing, renovating, conserving and protecting some of the UK’s most important heritage assets. We are also equally well known for adopting modern technologies and creating bespoke innovative design solutions to satisfy the current demand for sustainable contemporary buildings with advanced passive design approach and use of energy saving technology. On a day to day basis, we offer contract administration services for property managers to maintain the value of the asset and maximise income from the building
or property. Our solutions for both residential and commercial property managers are both practical and financially prudent. We recognise the importance of maintenance programmes to reduce the risk of dilapidations which can be accommodated within a specific budget. Our team of over 40 architects and building surveyors work from our network of 32 offices across the length and breadth of the UK. Our wide range of services is detailed within the following pages of this brochure and we would be delighted to speak to you if you would like more information or to discuss a specific project.
Contacts BUILDING CONSULTANCY
DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE David Shaw 01962 857409 david.shaw@ smithsgore.co.uk
Richard Henderson 01387 274397 richard.henderson@ smithsgore.co.uk
Mark Watt 01325 462966 mark.watt@ smithsgore.co.uk
AGRICULTUR AL BUILDING DESIGN Neil Smith 01343 823004 neil.smith@ smithsgore.co.uk
Richard Henderson 01387 274397 richard.henderson@ smithsgore.co.uk
Conservation
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
Dan Coston 01733 559317 dan.coston@ smithsgore.co.uk
Piers owen 01872 274646 piers.owen@ smithsgore.co.uk
Alan Tresider 01872 274646 alan.tresider@ smithsgore.co.uk
Jane Jones-Warner 01798 345910 jane.jones-warner@ smithsgore.co.uk
Mark Ledgard 01392 294888 mark.ledgard@ smithsgore.co.uk
DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE PROJECT TITLE
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Eastgate House
Our Architects undertake commissions across a wide spectrum of the built environment as we have close and long standing relationships with both private and institutional clients. Whether it is new-build homes, apartments, refurbishment/remodelling, extensions and interiors to both houses and commercial property, each project is approached as a unique piece of design, blending together traditional materials and state-of-the-art technologies to create a comfortable, stylish environment that adeptly meets the needs of 21st-century. To ensure the highest quality, we are actively involved with each
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project from the earliest stages through to completion. Smiths Gores’ Chartered Architects and building surveyors have the pleasure of working on some of our most cherished heritage assets. As development specialists with experience at handling sensitive environments our team has an appreciation of the past which informs their creation of spaces and places for the future. We believe in a collaborative approach with our highly skilled teams, the client and other development
professionals giving a seamless dependable service on every type of project however large or small. Every client is different and every project has its own challenges. We pride ourselves on our practical skills and offer a bespoke service to meet our clients’ requirements.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE Service Line
The maintenance of building fabric and installations is among the most onerous responsibilities facing owners and occupiers. It is very difficult to predict anticipated expenditure for reactive repairs, however at Smiths Gore we approach the maintenance of buildings in a planned and structured way. Our understanding of buildings and structures, together with our experience and expertise in the rural sector means that we are able to advise on planned maintenance that will reduce the need for unforeseen reactive maintenance. Often substantial investment is required to maintain the value of built assets, maximise income from tenants and meet health and safety and other compliance obligations. Reducing unforeseen or potentially avoidable costs due to a lack of maintenance is essential to the performance of any portfolio, in particular as it can have a more significant affect than rent reviews alone. The question for many owners is how to achieve all of this with a limited budget.
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Our first step is to apply our knowledge of the built environment and devise a detailed maintenance programme, with the schedule ordered to reflect the current condition of the fabric or equipment, the degree of risk which it represents and the remedial cost in the event of failure. A comprehensive programme minimises the requirement for unplanned, reactive maintenance and therefore substantially reduces long term costs. We also recognise that this approach can result in an increase in short term expenditure and we would seek to identify the elements that require immediate attention and prioritise those that could result in a risk to health and safety or significant future costs.
a contractor to undertake work. Where necessary we will attend a building to make a diagnosis and we have experts located throughout the country that are able to do this. The repair solution and subsequent analysis should seek to negate unnecessary or duplicate repairs.
As not all maintenance can be planned, it is essential to have robust and cost effective methods for arranging appropriate reactive maintenance. We achieve this by ensuring that we understand the matter in hand as well as the most appropriate form of repair, prior to engaging with
The firm has over 40 Architects and Buildings Surveyors based at our offices across the UK. We manage in the region of ÂŁ50m of maintenance work each year, ranging in value from a few hundred pounds to in excess of ÂŁ250,000.
We also control costs by maintaining a Verified Contractor’s database that has been specifically developed to include contractors that have the necessary skills to undertake all forms of maintenance. Rather than rely on general builders, our database identifies contractors by skill and location in order to reduce reaction time and ensure the repair is undertaken correctly.
BUILDING CONSULTANCY Service Line
The Building Surveyors at Smiths Gore have extensive knowledge of construction and property legislation. This coupled with an in-depth understanding of building pathology together with our national coverage makes our Building Consultancy Surveyors the natural choice for private landlords, local authorities and private individuals.
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Party Wall and Boundary matters: we advise architects and developers on the viability of developments in relation to boundary matters including the proximity of developments to boundaries and advice on the correct notices and relevant timings for service on neighbours.
Our specialisms include:
When appointed by adjoining owners we ensure that the Party Wall Act or Access to Neighbouring Land Act requirements are followed and used to protect neigh bouring land and buildings.
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Expert Witness advice: our Building Surveyors prepare expert witness reports in respect of boundary and construction disputes. Our knowledge of party wall and boundary legislation, together with our in-depth construction knowledge, makes us qualified to prepare reports for litigation purposes.
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Building Pathology: an understanding of building construction and its components with the knowledge of their relative performance and life expectancy is necessary to understand buildings and their
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Pre-purchase surveys of commercial and residential properties both for freehold and leasehold acquisitions. Understanding the condition of a building is of essential importance whether the building is being purchased or a potential lessee is taking responsibility for a building under a repairing covenant. Dilapidations: Smiths Gore act for both tenants and landlords in respect of dilapidations work. Our knowledge of current case law allows a realistic approach to claims for damages on behalf of landlords and protection for tenants against unscrupulous claims.
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components. An understanding of how building materials behave is critical when considering specifications, or failure by contractors to comply with specifications. This is a essential element in any proceedings whether it be against architects, surveyors or contractors, or for preparation of Maintenance Schedules or options appraisals for repairs. •
Building Management: Smiths Gore act for numerous Estates and management organisations which hold large property portfolios.
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Our understanding of building pathology and the life expectancy of building elements allows us to create a complete maintenance picture which allows for proactive management of buildings and building groups. We can undertake an audit and advise on statutory compliance together with other elements involved with the management of buildings.
CONSERVATION ARCHITECTURE Service Line
Conservation Architecture may be described as ‘the process of managing change’. Commissioners of conservation projects need architects and surveyors who understand and respect the significance of a particular building or structure in its setting and historic and cultural context. Design is important in all aspects of ‘change’. Our priority is to ensure that as far as possible the design solution conserves the fabric of the building or where it has been changed clarifies or reinstates the original design intent. All our projects start with gaining a thorough understanding of the significance of the historic fabric and its setting and we are adept at
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recognising opportunities to reveal or reinforce the heritage value for present and future generations. Being both Surveyors and Architects, we understand traditional construction techniques and detailing, their regional variations and specific conservation methods. We aim to provide a sympathetic and imaginative architectural ‘response’ to match our clients’ brief. We have members of staff who are accredited under both the RIBA (Architects) and the RICS (Surveyors) schemes. Our team is specifically qualified to work on Listed Buildings, Scheduled Ancient Monuments, churches, Buildings at Risk and historic parks and gardens. Our work ranges from quinquennial surveys and small
projects (for example the design of a piece of joinery) to major conservation programmes and restoration projects. Projects involving buildings of national importance include Arbury Hall and Firle Place in England and Dunnottar Castle in Scotland together with many prime churches and smaller buildings or structures. We can assess whether a building is eligible for grant aid and how best to present the case for funding, regularly securing and implementing grants from English Heritage, Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural England as well as other trusts and charitable bodies.
AGRICULTUR AL BUILDING DESIGN Service Line
Any new or refurbished agricultural building must be fit for its intended purpose. Our Architects and Building Surveyors will work closely with you to understand what it is you want the building to do and tailor the design to suit your individual needs. We can help you by putting you in touch with other farmers with whom we have worked with to look at their buildings and see what works well for them and how it might suit your operation. We advise on all aspects of the requirements for livestock and poultry housing, dairy units, crop storage, waste management and general purpose buildings.
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We can advise on the regeneration of existing buildings which are no longer suited to modern farming practices. We are concious ofthe need to work within tight budgets and timescales which are dictated by the farming calendar. We will help you obtain planning and building warrant approvals, advise on environmental impact assessments and deal with other statutory bodies letting you get on with managing your business. Over the last five years we have been involved in over 200 projects across the UK. With budgets from ÂŁ20,000
to ÂŁ5m, these range from small scale improvements to whole farm redevelopments. In every case, we focus on creating the built environment the business needs to drive efficiencies and improve performance.
A selection of our case studies
Old Cathedr al School - Truro Case Study
As a result of a successful tender we were instructed by the client, Truro Cathedral, to prepare a report on condition and planned maintenance schedule for this grade II listed building situated in the curtilage of the Cathedral. The exercise was part of a coordinated scheme to bring the building back into use as a multi-purpose performing arts and conference space and we worked in conjunction with the project architect, structural engineer, services engineer and quantity surveyor. The building is a fine late gothic revival structure designed by Frank Pearson, son of the Cathedral Architect J L Pearson. It is a purpose built school building constructed as a late phase of the cathedral complex which was left
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unfinished with masonry shafts attached to the south elevation for a cloister that was never built. The building was constructed at the beginning of the twentieth century and although of traditional appearance and construction in many ways, incorporated innovative features such as damp proof courses and composite suspended concrete and steel upper floors. Through our survey we identified significant issues of dampness, these were largely the result of raised external ground levels which had bridged the original asphalt damp proof courses and penetrated through the imperfect details left by the incomplete cloister range.
Our recommendations included lowering the external ground levels to restore the original levels as far as possible and for supplementary damp proof courses and renewal of defective finishes. There were also extensive signs of failure of the existing ashlar stonework to the main elevations, a defect which had previously become apparent on the Cathedral where Bath stone had been favoured over the native granite. Through consultation with the cathedral architect we identified a suitable replacement stone.
The tower to this grade 1 Church was bombed during the Second World War. It was repaired by shuttering the top of the flint walls and pouring concrete over and around the oak wall plates and rafter feet, with the roof structure being repaired and clad in cedar boarding. Work was undertaken to remove the cedar boarding to the spire and replace with oak shakes, with additional repairs to the timber structure and masonry including new stone shafts to two of the belfry openings. Local building contractors and stonemasons carried out the works which was grant aided by English Heritage.
Before
Repairs to Gr ade I Listed Church – Hampshire Case Study
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCILS Case Study
Inspecting Architect/Surveyor for Parishes in different Diocese As part of the Inspecting Architect/Surveyors role, quinquennial inspection reports are carried out within the requirements of the Inspection of Churches Measure, as implemented by the Diocesan Schemes. The intention of these inspections is to provide an overview of the general condition of the building and, where appropriate, its contents, furnishings and fittings indicating areas of immediate concern. The reports are intended to forecast, as far as it is possible, areas where works of repair or renewal are likely to fall during the next 5 years, in addition to areas of immediate concern and longer term issues which may evolve over time. The rate of deterioration of an old building is unpredictable and may change as a result of various circumstances such as weather conditions. As a result it is necessary to review the report within a 5 year period. Any priority schedule must therefore be taken as a broad indication as to what is expected from the circumstances at the time of inspection. If the maintenance of the building is treated as a continuing process, the extent of repair work and related costs is likely to be contained. This allows Parishes to prioritise their work and budget accordingly.
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Firle Place Case Study
Parts of this grade I house dates back to the 15th Century, although the western half of the existing building was built in the early 16th Century for Sir John Gage. This was later adapted to Georgian tastes in 1754. The second Viscount Gage added the eastern part of the house between 1754 and 1783. In March 2007 we were appointed to carry out a Quinquennial Inspection of the main house and several outbuildings on the main estate. The report highlighted issues relating to the house of which the Trustees were not aware. Our recommendations in the report were to explore the areas of concern in more detail. It became apparent that the works required to rectify these problems would cost a considerable amount of money and Smiths Gore approached English Heritage to apply for a grant. It became necessary during the time we were negotiating with English Heritage for this grant to carry out emergency works over the Long Gallery to prevent considerable water ingress. Smiths Gore covered the large lead cornice and gutters with a new boarded felt roof and installed large temporary gutters and downpipes. This solution was in place for over a year while we carried out further investigation works. English Heritage funded two phases of work which are now complete. Both phases involved the removal and reinstatement of a Horsham stone roof with considerable repairs to the roof structure under. The leadwork and rainwatergoods were redetailed allowing for heavier rainfall and providing large overflows to provide telltales for any signs of blockage. The roof over the Great Hall is a medieval hammer beam structure of beautiful scale and detail but the truss ends which had been built into the walls were in an appalling condition. We had identified the urgent need for these works but it became more apparent during the contract, after the wall had been partially dismantled, just how severe the decay was and how precarious this roof had been.
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Visitors Facility, Forestry Commission – Argyll Case Study
Smiths Gore was appointed by the Forestry Commission to design and oversee construction of a new outstation office and visitor facility. The design of the office was to have a low visual impact on the environment, both in terms of its visual appearance and materials used. Designed and constructed before sustainable construction became buzz words, the building takes advantage of the surrounding natural resources. Douglas Fir felled in the surrounding woodland was used to construct the structural frame and provide the wall cladding. At the time this was considered innovative. The building provides office accommodation, visitor facilities and public toilets for users of the Forest Park. Total approximate building cost ÂŁ200,000.
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Tr aditional Barn Repairs – North Yorkshire Case Study
Smiths Gore was appointed to project manage repairs to a series of traditional barns, involving a full professional service from survey to administering the building contract. The existing range of agricultural buildings had suffered from wind damage, subsidence and serious structural movement. Due to the traditional barn’s inherent value as an asset for future conversion it was essential that this building be retained. The cheapest option would have been to demolish the entire structure. This would have resulted in loss of a building and any hope of making a financial return to the client in the future. Whilst undertaking the repair works which included almost 60% demolition and re-build of the external walls, the client’s brief was always to have in mind its potential future use and conversion. We therefore decided to incorporate a raised collar ie roof truss, thereby offering the capacity for first floor accommodation. The foundations of the re-built walls where also placed at a depth that would enable reduction of the ground levels which again would offer greater scope and use of the converted building.
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Torquay Station Case Study
Survey of the fabric of the building to assess ongoing repairs to Listed Building (Grade II) Inspection and survey of the station to establish extent of repairs required and to assess appropriate intervention to protect the existing historic fabric. The building is Grade II listed and constructed in the late 19th Century in a French chateau style. It is partially on built-up land and a pattern of cracking has occurred on the ‘downhill’ side together with other repairs required to maintain the structure and fabric, and its detailing. The instruction included the requirement to liaise with local Conservation Officers to confirm the nature and specification of repairs.
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The Street – Gr affham, Near Petworth Case Study
Smiths Gore was appointed architects for the design and build of a large oak timber-framed extension and internal alterations for this private house. The brief was developed by the client and their main objectives were to increase the living space and to extend the property to include a 5m x 5m family room. The building was originally two separate dwellings and there was a clear divide in the existing plan which formed an awkward circulation space, which we reconfigured. The scheme removed a 1980’s glass conservatory to
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the south elevation and introduced a more sympathetic oak-framed, half-hipped extension with a large amount of internal works. The alterations consisted of a new kitchen, opening up the space between the proposed kitchen and existing dining room, providing a new ground floor shower room with an existing external log store, adapting the existing bedrooms to increase space and the incorporation of a new large family bathroom. The construction included a deep strip foundation supporting a brick and flint plinth wall, with a larger green oak timber-frame and clay tile pitched roof. The large
openings in the oak frame were glazed using very high performance thermal glazing. The works took place between October and the following May. During the construction process it was the client’s request to remain in residence while the works were carried out, and the property was divided into two to enable safe working areas and a clean living environment.
Silage Clamp – Mount Pleasant Farm Case Study
Contract – JCT IFC 2005 Value £180,000 ABS Lichfield Description Silage Clamp completed 2006
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Seaside Apartments Case Study
Smiths Gore was instructed to design the redevelopment of some 1960’s holiday flats to provide 12 residential flats, each with 2 bedrooms and an energy SAP rating B. The project involved complete design and architectural service including project management from inception through to completion. With passenger lifts, individual storage for surfboards and beach kit on the lower ground floor, the flats occupy the upper floors and each commands a wide view of the sea and sands. Immediate sale of these flats says much for their quality and desirability at a time when Cornwall’s North Coast was over supplied.
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With more and more of our countryside being made accessible for recreational use through the creation of path networks Landowners should be mindful of the duty of care owed by the occupier of the land if it can be reasonably foreseen that harm may be caused through their actions or omissions. That is to say that where a footpath is created there is a duty of care owed to those who use the path with respect to minimising the risk to the users. As part of the management of the risks to users, footbridges and large culverts should be regularly inspected to ensure that they are safe. Inspections should be carried out by a competent person who has the skills and knowledge to adequately assess the bridge. Records should be kept to confirm the condition of the bridge and preventative and reactive maintenance undertaken recorded. Smiths Gore have recently completed the inspection and reporting on 91 bridges on behalf of Scottish Natural Heritage throughout Scotland. The bridges were assessed in accordance with predefined criteria and remedial works identified and repairs have been specified to bring all bridges up to standard.
Scottish Natur al Heritage - Path Bridge Inspections Case Study
Schedules of Conditions - Ipswich Case Study
Following a successful tender, Smiths Gore were instructed to prepare 29 Schedules of Condition of various properties that may have been affected by installation of flood defences. Instruction included coordination of inspections and reporting within a tight timescale. Once the flood defence works were complete, Smiths Gore was reinstructed to undertake another inspection to determine if any damage had been caused.
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Replacement Dwelling – Hampshire Case Study
Designed around the aspirations and dynamic of the client’s individual needs this bespoke house reflects both traditional and modern aspects of aesthetic and living spaces. The design uses such themes as Chinese poetry and music which have been woven into the design approach for the house. A vernacular external appearance was required as the building resides within the New Forest National Park. However the private and secluded elevations of the house are contemporary which follows through internally. The house has an array of sustainable features that are controlled by the house computer system: • • • • • • • •
Highly insulated envelope Solar controlled glass Ground source heat pump Solar PV array Heat recovering system Whole house ventilation system Passive solar shading devices House computer
The project was completed in December 2013. NOTES
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PROJECT TITLE
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SCALE
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DRAWING NUMBER
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DRAWN BY
CHECKED BY
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DATE
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drawing is the property of Smiths Gore and may not be reproduced without their expressed permission.
Smiths Gore prior to the commencement of any fabrication or building works. This
dimensions and details are to be read in conjunction with specialist consultants' drawings; any disparity between drawings is to be brought to the attention of
Do not scale from this drawing unless for Planning purposes. Figured dimensions only are to be used. All dimensions must be checked on site by the Contractor prior to the commencement of any fabrication or building works. Where applicable,
Eastgate House Eastgate Street Winchester Hampshire SO23 8DZ t: 01962 857413 f: 01962 857401 e: winchester@smithsgore.co.uk
Refurbishments and Extension – South West Scotland Case Study
Smiths Gore was approached by the client to refurbish the existing house and provide an extension which would provide a comfortable home with additional bedroom and bathroom accommodation. The existing house lies within the policies of a Grade A Listed house and is itself Listed as category B. The house is a traditionally constructed dwelling with coursed sandstone walls and natural slate roof covering. The house is modest in scale which meant that a substantial extension was required to provide the accommodation requested by the client. Several design options were considered including simply extending the property using sandstone walls to match the existing construction. The final design solution creates a well proportioned extension finished in a self coloured lime render which deliberately contrasts with the existing building. Smiths Gore provided a full service to the client from sketch design, to planning and building warrant approval, obtaining competitive tenders and supervision of the construction works.
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Refurbishment and Extension - Beadnell Case Study
Our London based clients purchased this property as a holiday home in the North East of England. Smiths Gore was asked to provide architectural services for all aspects of the design and construction work. The original 1930s house is semi-detached with three bedrooms and while not in a particularly poor condition the interior fixtures and finishes were drab and dated. Our brief was to refurbish every aspect of the existing house and design an extension to provide a new master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. The East elevation consists of a white painted curved wall supported on a single white column. There is a large cut out in this curved wall which provides the view from a new first floor terrace accessible from the existing and new bedrooms. There are stunning views of the North Sea from both terraces. Many of the internal walls were finished in old fashioned dry-lining with ugly joints between panels, this was removed as part of the work and replaced with flush wall linings on minimal stud framing. This detail created convenient service routes for the total re-wire of the house. At roof level there is a sun room with door access to a flat roof area. The parapet to this area was very low and therefore dangerous. Furthermore an existing chimney stack terminated on one side. The chimney was successfully removed and a new handrail created around the roof terrace. Wooden decking with inset miniature lights was installed to the terrace.
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In 2011 our Architects and Building Surveyors were appointed to carry out a measured survey of this redundant agricultural barn and small dairy. The measured building survey formed the initial stage of a scheme to convert the barn and dairy to residential use. The barn and dairy had been redundant for some time and were in a state of disrepair and partial collapse. Our surveyors safely carried out the detailed survey to ensure a true representation of the condition of the building and reported the dangerous condition of the structure to the client. On behalf of the client Smiths Gore also arranged for the building to be assessed by a Structural Engineer. The survey drawings where produced in CAD which were subsequently adapted to illustrate the client’s proposals as part of a Planning Application for change of use.
Redundant Agricultur al Barn - Sussex Case Study
Reconstruction of Former Rectory – Near St Austell Case Study
The project comprised of the careful recording of an existing building which had become a ruin, the reconstruction of the building on the existing footplate and re-planning of the interior and layout to provide 8 bedrooms, each with adjoining bathrooms, a reception room, commercial kitchen, laundry and gun room. The building is positioned on a particularly sensitive site adjacent to the historic parkland, and the detailing of reconstruction was carefully assessed and detailed to ensure that a positive contribution to the landscape and its context was made. Smiths Gore/Stratton & Holborrow were responsible for the design, obtaining Planning Consent and English Heritage approval, construction drawings, tendering and Contract Administration through to completion.
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Re-Build & Conversion of Farm Building Case Study
The project included partial rebuilding of cow byres and complete rebuilding of animal shelter to form an 11m x 5m x 1.2m deep swimming pool with associated changing block and plant rooms, plus adjacent gym. The main pool hall has an oak frame, with aisles to either side of the pool. The walls to three sides are finished internally and externally in stonework with the fourth wall entirely glazed. The interior is weathered and the whole effect is one of a swimming pool having been inserted into an existing barn, rather than that of a new building. The running costs of the pool are managed by the use of 3 ground source heat pumps and 2 kilometres of underground pipework laid in an adjacent field. As well as heating the pool water, the heat pumps also provide hot water for the showers and underfloor heating in the changing block, plus air heating to the pool hall and an adjacent barn, which has been converted for use as a gymnasium. The project started on site during the summer of 2009 and was completed for the Easter weekend 2010. We are delighted to announce that the project was selected for and won the North and East Yorkshire LABC Building Excellence Award – Best Domestic Conversion or Extension 2010.
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Parbold Hall Case Study
A private client wished to purchase a substantial country house and associated land and buildings in proximity to his own portfolio. Following acceptance of offers on the property subject to survey, the client wished to confirm any potential liabilities relating to the repair and maintenance of the property prior to completing the sale.
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Smiths Gore undertook a structure only survey of the property, which was apparently in very good order. The survey report identified potential issues with calcium chloride attack, evidence of structural movement and potential limitations presented by the inherent nature of construction. The inspection also revealed evidence of past work and alterations and thus advised on the need for further enquiries through the vendor’s solicitor into the
absence of necessary consents. Having received this information the client was able to make an informed decision with regards to proceeding with the purchase, or undertaking further investigations. In this particular case the purchaser withdrew his offer.
New Holiday Park Clubhouse – Near St Austell Case Study
Smiths Gore worked with local designers and construction professionals to project manage, detail, administer and deliver a new Holiday Park Clubhouse near St. Austell, Cornwall. The project involved complex mechanical, electrical, structural and interfaces was delivered within a 7 month Winter Contract between September and March, to meet Client requirements.
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New Agricultur al Buildings – Chillington Case Study
Smiths Gore was engaged to provide full design, planning and contract administration services for the procurement of a new grain store and separate general purpose building on an existing farm site. Working closely with our Farm Management team and the Client’s Farm Manager, the design of the buildings and the layout of the resulting farm complex were tailored to provide modern efficient facilities which would fulfil the requirements of this mixed arable and livestock farming operation.
NOTES Do not scale from this drawing unless for Planning purposes. Figured dimensions only are to be used. All dimensions must be checked on site by the Contractor prior to the commencement of any fabrication or building works. Where applicable, dimensions and details are to be read in conjunction with specialist consultants' drawings; any disparity between drawings is to be brought to the attention of Smiths Gore prior to the commencement of any fabrication or building works. This drawing is the property of Smiths Gore and may not be reproduced without their permission.
NEW SHEEP PENS hedge (ht 2.40)
REVISIONS
chainlink fence (ht 1.20)
New post and rail fence to match existing.
stump 1.20Ø
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New rainwater harvesting tank Reduce length of existing ditch.
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iding div nal Inter wall.
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hedge (ht 2.40)
steel frame barn
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ridge level 133.88 eaves level 132.98
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steel frame barn ridge level 138.37 eaves level 135.90
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ridge level 137.40 eaves level 136.36 steel frame barn
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rwp grass
0)
eaves level 135.20 ridge level 138.34
rwp
tank
PROPOSED FARM PLAN
Relocate feed silos (2).
SCALE
0.25Ø
up up rwp/g
1:200 @ A1
DRAWING NUMBER
REV
D
1014876/05
DRAWING STATUS
Planning
rwp
DRAWN
up
timber
post and
rail fence
(ht 1.20
)
EASTGATE HOUSE TEL: 01962 857400
DATE
CHECKED
RA
ic
smithsgore.co.uk
Chillington Farms grass DRAWING TITLE
s/d
t 1.2
il (h
tank
DS
•
EASTGATE STREET
•
WINCHESTER
FEB 09 •
HAMPSHIRE • SO23 8DZ FAX: 01962 857401
Investigations and Repairs to Gr ade I Listed House Case Study
Parts of this Grade I Listed house date back to the 15th Century, although the western half of the existing building was built in the early 16th Century for Sir John Gage. This was later adapted to Georgian tastes in 1754. The second Viscount Gage added the eastern part of the house between 1754 and 1783. In March 2007 we were appointed to carry out a Quinquennial inspection of the main house and several outbuildings on the main estate. The report highlighted to the trustees many problems of which they were not aware.
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Our recommendations in the report were to explore the areas of concern in more detail. It became apparent that the works required to rectify these problems would cost in excess of ÂŁ2.5 million. While we were negotiating with English Heritage for a grant we had to carry out emergency works to keep the water out of the Long Gallery and we covered the large lead cornice and gutters with a new boarded felt roof. The Trustees have now received a grant from English Heritage for two of the priority areas which involve
structural repairs to the roofs over the Long Gallery, Pine Staircase and Great Hall together with roof coverings leadwork and associated rainwater goods.
Housing Development Case Study
Residential Master Plan Dorset Our design solution comprised of a contemporary interpretation of the vernacular architecture with strong gables and purpose designed unit typologies which utilised sustainable building strategies such as passive ventilation, high levels of natural light and PV capture. Wind catchers were designed into all of the units to take advantage of the exposed location of the site. The material selections were carefully considered so that they were natural, robust and sustainably sourced wherever possible. An overriding aim of the scheme was to improve the ecological value of the site and to create an enhanced habitat for existing species. The development was centred upon a new communal green which residents could overlook from individual gardens and which they could use, with the possibility of creating a sense of community over time. At the periphery of the development, native wild grasses and vegetation was proposed.
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Holiday Cottage development, North Yorkshire Case Study
A major investment by the Duchy of Lancaster has seen completion of an ambitious project to convert a group of redundant farm buildings at Scalby Lodge, Scalby to holiday cottages. The latest phase of the development saw both conversion and new build to create eleven units plus a reception building to add to the existing four units. In total, the development provides 43 bedrooms with accommodation for 85 people. The work involved the conversion of several ranges of single and two storey redundant farm buildings, constructed with stone and brick walls beneath clay tiled roofs. As part of this phase, two new buildings/units were constructed, with a further building significantly extended.
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The design brief was to ensure that the agricultural origin and traditional appearance of the buildings was respected and maintained as far as possible, with original construction details retained and enhanced. The buildings were to be energy efficient, adopting a good level of insulation and renewable technologies were to be incorporated where feasible. The extensive conversion works included complete reroofing, stone and brick repairs and renewals together with full external wall re-pointing adopting lime mortar, new rainwater goods, new double glazed windows, new internal insulated floors, fully insulated wall linings and roof insulation together with new services throughout. All the eleven units within this phase have under floor heating, run from Ground Source (vertical bore) Heat Pumps, which also provide domestic hot water. Internally, the units are fitted out, decorated and furnished to a very
high standard. Externally, significant site and surrounding landscape improvements have been undertaken, including the creation of a new access and related roads, footpaths, a car park, boundaries – walls, fencing and hedges together with a significant amount of tree and shrub planting. Accommodation for bats and barn owls has been provided in a number of areas as part of the development scheme with rainwater collected from the roofs diverted to a nearby wildlife pond. With any conversion such as this, there was a need to maintain the traditional appearance and to respect fully the agricultural origins of the buildings at both individual and group level. Where possible, materials were reclaimed and re-used, including roof trusses/timbers, stone and tiles etc. adding to and maintaining the character.
Herries Farms Case Study
The design brief was to provide housing for 200 of beef cattle in optimum conditions with ‘in house’ storage for a minimum of 6 month waste to meet current agricultural requirements with minimal manpower for feeding and supervision tasks. Planning and building warrant approval were obtained in 2011 for the redevelopment with a view to having stock housed by the winter of 2012. The project commenced in November 2011 and was completed in October 2012 after a very wet and challenging (most notably for the main contractor) winter, spring and ‘summer’ season.
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Working closely with Smiths Gore’s Rural and Farm Management Departments, the Architecture and Building Surveying (ABS) team in Dumfries was appointed to act as Project Manager, Lead Consultant and Principal Designer and was tasked with co-ordinating delivery of the project. The development involved deep excavation in very wet and testing ground conditions, which in places neared the consistency of running sand, for which careful design consideration was required and implemented with the close co-operation of the structural engineer.
The construction: The structure consists of a galvanised steel portal frame with fibre cement roof with a cantilevered section projecting over the exterior feed stances with sides clad with timber space boarding over galvanised diagonal feed barriers. Pens are formed internally using galvanised steel gates and barriers. Lighting has been provided using waterproof long life low maintenance energy efficient fittings to provide adequate and controllable lighting for the various tasks required within the building. From an ecological perspective the client was intent on maintaining, promoting and encouraging wildlife to the site and the development has therefore involved tree planting and landscaping.
Gr ade II Listed Farmhouse, Surrey Case Study
In 2008 our Architects and Building Surveying team were appointed to carry out a measured survey of this Surrey farmhouse and the ancillary farm buildings. The measured building survey formed the initial stage of a scheme to improve the accommodation at the farmhouse and convert the farm buildings. The Grade II listed house, originally a medieval hall house, had been altered and extended over the years and presented a challenge to accurately measure and record. Our surveyors carried out the survey to ensure each post, beam and out of plumb wall was measured and accurately plotted. The outbuildings, generally all single storey, consisted of a separate Grade II listed granary and cart shed and small timber framed agricultural buildings. The survey drawings where produced in CAD which were subsequently adapted to illustrate the client’s proposals to secure a Planning and Listed Building Consent.
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Glencaple Shop Case Study
Caerlaverock Estate purchased a small village shop in 2004 to save it from closure and retain it for use by the community. Since then the shop has gone from strength to strength and had outgrown its location. With no prospect for further expansion on the existing site a new site was purchased on the quayside with the ambition to develop a new shop and tea room which would become the hub of the community. Smiths Gore carefully considered the constraints of the site, lying on a flood plain and on a B listed structure within a conservation area, and developed a design which reflects the powerful tidal bore in the river Nith and the areas Maritime History. The building was designed to offer flexible space, requires minimal maintenance and minimises energy consumption by exceeding current insulation requirements for the buildings envelope and utilises air source heat pumps for the heating and hot water systems. The building was completed in 2012.
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The project is to carry out flood protection works to the river banks extending from the town of Wisbech along both the North and South Brink. Smiths Gore’s instruction was to carry out condition surveys of the privately owned properties prior to the flood defence works being commenced. The surveys consist of inspecting the properties in as much detail as possible and recording defects by photographs and description. A standard format report is then produced for the client and the property owner to agree the present condition. The project extended over a distance of approximately 2½ miles and involved 68 surveys of mostly Edwardian properties. Other notable properties inspected Peckover House (National Trust property) and The Museum of the birth place of Octavia Hill. On completion of the flood defence work if there is any building damage as a result of the works a post inspection is carried out and negotiations entered into for compensation.
Flood Risk Management – Wisbech, Cambridgeshire Case Study
Farm Complex Redevelopment - Mor ay Case Study
Smiths Gore was appointed to design and project manage the construction of a new farm complex to replace dilapidated traditional farm buildings for a blue chip institutional client. The development was phased across three years and included the construction of a new cattle court to house 140 head of cattle (Phase 1), a grain store building (Phase 2) and a general purpose building (Phase 3) for storage and other agricultural uses. The buildings were all substantial dimensions and careful consideration was given as to how these would sit within the rolling landscape of the farm holding.
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Dilapidations - Industrial Building Case Study
This 30,000 sq.ft building is a circa 1980’s industrial building that formed part of the Client’s varied portfolio. Although the Client holds many buildings, the tenants’ repairing obligation and the process of dilapidations was not something they were familiar with. Smiths Gore was asked to undertake an initial review of the lease, comment on the potential for recovering a sum in lieu of dilapidations and identify the most appropriate approach. The instruction also included for Smiths Gore’s commercial team to ensure that the building was re-let in a difficult market. The approach had to maximise the claim but also maintain an ongoing relationship with the existing sub-tenant. A schedule was served on behalf of the Client and a settlement was realised. This was considered a success in light of the circumstances and the sub-tenant maintained occupation. As part of the service Smiths Gore also prepared a detailed scheduled of condition that was appended to the sub-lease.
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Country House Case Study
Our Architects were appointed by a local estate to carry works to this Grade II Listed country house to a high standard ready for the high end residential lettings market. Smiths Gore assessed the condition of the property before working up several proposed options for the client to review. As part of our service a Quantity Surveyor provided cost estimates with each option to assist and inform the client’s decisions. Following client approval Smiths Gore prepared an application for Listed Building Consent, which was duly granted. Alongside the Listed Building Application process a detailed specification, schedule of works and working drawings were developed and issued for pricing to carefully selected building contractors. The works include sensitive repairs to the exterior of the building, insulation and services upgrades and internal alterations to improve the layout and accommodation. The project is currently on site.
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Cold Store Construction - Mor ay Case Study
Smiths Gore was appointed to design and project manage the construction of a new agricultural building incorporating a cold store for a blue chip institutional client. The building comprises an area measuring 30x15m with an eaves height of 8m which is insulated to a level to maintain temperatures at -3oC when the tenant’s own refrigeration unit is installed and a reception area measuring 12x15m where the tenant’s own sorting system will be installed. The building has been sited within a ‘greenfield’ area with new access from the public road planned into the scheme.
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Bamburgh Castle - Repointing Work Case Study
The Castle Manager had identified issues with falling and failing masonry presenting a potential risk to the public. A detailed assessment was required to advise on the extent and detail of any necessary remedial works. Smiths Gore undertook detailed inspections in conjunction with the Castle’s stonemasons using high level access equipment to undertake an initial assessment of damage.
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Using detailed photography a schedule of works was planned in advance of the erection of scaffold access. Specifications included detailed selection of appropriate stone for repairs in conjunction with local quarries and a development of a mortar specification with mason’s mortars. Smiths Gore dealt with all health and safety issues and project managed the works through to completion. Works were completed and scaffold removed
in time for a pre-booked wedding. Through appropriate investigation, and adequate project planning, necessary repairs were carried out in a safe and professional manner on time and within budget thereby ensuring the preservation of an important heritage asset.
Bagshot Park – Windsor Estate Case Study
The Crown Estate wished to convert redundant agricultural buildings to residential use, located in the grounds of Bagshot Park and forming part of the Windsor Estate. Home Farm Buildings were originally constructed between 1875-1899 on the site of a group of former farm buildings.
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It took considerable negotiations with Surrey Heath Borough Council to achieve approval. There were a total of 32 Planning Conditions attached to the Planning and Listed Building approvals, ranging from protection of bats, archaeological surveys, style of the windows and the form/’number o car parking spaces.
Our objective was to create good quality housing from redundant farm buildings of some merit, but retaining the character and spirit of the existing farm complex.
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