Traeth Bychan, Benllech
Planning Permission submitted for Benllech development We are very excited to announce that we’ve recently submitted a Planning Application for 18 new residential units within the popular coastal village of Benllech, North Wales.Comprising of 9 apartments and 9 houses, this development aims to transform a currently derelict site into a vibrant and social place to live and holiday. Currently situated on the site is a partially demolished hotel that has been abandoned for many years. Our aim is to retain as much of the hotel’s original character as possible while infusing a new contemporary style to the site. Designed for permanent residents, the refurbished hotel will comprise of 9 apartments. During the design process, we were keen to maximise natural daylight and take full advantage of the views of the surrounding landscape. To achieve this, we’ve created 3 predominately glazed gables; each with their own spacious balcony and stylish French doors. In addition to this, we designed the building with accessibility in mind; ensuring that the main entrance has level access and that there is a lift facility across all of the floors. The entrance hallway will also feature 3 large roof lights that will flood the atrium in daylight; creating a warm and welcoming space. To complement the hotel conversion, we also designed 3 new buildings to encompass the 9 new houses. Targeted at the holiday home purchaser, we designed these houses to be contemporary and interesting whilst remaining respectful to their surroundings. During the design process, we decided we really wanted to emphasise the main entrances of the houses, so we opted for a feature angled recess entrance with integrated canopies. Additionally, on the first floor, we wanted to maximise the natural light to the landing area by introducing a combined window and roof light which helps to modernise the design. The ridge and eaves heights were also considered during the design process to ensure that the new houses were lower than the existing hotel, making them less imposing and more sympathetic to their environment.Internally, we wanted to maximise the feeling of space by utilising vaulted living areas and also make the most of the stunning scenery with large sliding glass doors and angled balconies to optimise the views. In terms of the overall site, we wanted to ensure that it’s an enjoyable and welcoming space to be. To achieve this, we’ve chosen to use locally sourced natural materials where possible and that there is plenty of softer landscaped areas The happiness and wellbeing of the residents is also very important to us. We wanted to ensure that the site is accessible by introducing disabled parking spaces and that it’s safe to navigate by creating a clear delineation between the pathways and tarmacked areas. We’ve also introduced a cycle storage area to help to reduce the reliance on using cars for travelling while the introduction of electric vehicle charging points helps to futureproof the site and make it more sustainable. Everyone here at Buju Architects has thoroughly enjoyed working on this project thus far and are very excited to develop it further in the coming months. If you’ve got a project that you’d like us to look at then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!
Garsdale Signal Box
Restoration of a Grade II listed signal box in Garsdale, Cumbria. Check out the 3D render embedded at the bottom of this post! Buju Architects was enlisted to help restore this Grade II listed signal box to its original condition. Listed for its infamous history and unique fittings, it remains a fine example of the Type 4c signal box, denoted by its lapped timber boarding and horizontal sash windows. Located on a steep bank, this tired signal box was in need of external restoration and internal refurbishment. The timber elements had begun to deteriorate and required replacement. The staircase, window cleaning balcony and sash windows are also to be replaced. Garsdale signal box recently underwent major structural underpinning and is now ready for the next stage of its revival. We worked hard to identify high grade materials that can withstand high exposure to the elements whilst maintaining the authenticity of the original architecture. Working with Wilde Consulting Engineers and Network Rail, we designed and produced coordinated drawings to help execute the works. Following a meeting with the conservation officer, Accoya was identified as a key material in giving this signal box a new lease of life. It was employed due to its robustness and ability to withstand the adverse weather conditions in that location. We also identified key features of the original design that were to be reinstated, after being lost in the last refurbishment. As part of the work, we are also updating the internal finishes and kitchen stations of the signal box. Care has been taken not to disturb any of the signalling equipment while providing the operator with more comfort. We are very much looking forward to seeing the end result of this refurbishment and are excited to be a part of keeping our heritage alive. Watch this space for further updates and if you have a project in mind requiring heritage works, do not hesitate to contact us!
Roof-top Apartments at Broadstone Mill, Stockport
Planning is underway for the rooftop development of Broadstone Mill and re-purposing of the top floor. The proposal will introduce a number of new residential units to the existing roof of the mill, a total of 48 units (2, 3 and 4 person) over 2 floors. In addition to the residential units, roof gardens, both private and public, are to be introduced. Design Approach The overall layout of the units on the proposed levels are to reduce the impact that the proposal has on the overall elevations of the mill. The units have been recessed from the sides of the mill to not detract from the features of the mill. This also allows for a clearer separation between the old mill and the new proposal. We created a landscaped social space where residents could interact with each other, achieving our overall brief to introduce socialable housing to the mill. The scale of the proposal has been designed to maximise the space available, whilst respecting the scale and form of the existing building. The units have been designed to space standards for dwellings, meaning that the inhabitants will have the right amount of space to live in. Due to the proposal being at such a height above ground level, the landscaping of the proposal is within the communal roof garden spaces. The roof garden has been designed to encourage social interaction between the residents, whilst also allowing space for relaxation. The use of planters which incorporate seating allows the maximum use of space and cohesion between green space and usability. The overall design of the interior courtyard is fluid making it an attractive and inviting place to be, and thus allowing residents to make more use of the space. The materiality of the proposal is such that they will complement the existing materials used on the mill, to allow the proposal to blend in as much as possible with the existing building. Services Provided Buju Architects have thoroughly enjoyed providing architectural services from RIBA Stages 0 to 3. We are excited to be progressing this further and transforming an iconic structure in our home city!
Oaklands Dental Surgery, Preston
We sat down with our client initially to discuss ideas and requirements. We identified opportunities to give the best patient and staff experience by improving the interior layout and adding an extension to the property. Buju Architects also redesigned the parking layout of the site which is now more efficient and complies with parking regulations. The exterior facade of the building has been improved aesthetically to form a more modern and welcoming entrance. Using 3D Modelling, we achieved several options for the Client to visualise and understand exactly what it will look and feel like. “I found the design experience enjoyable and stress-free. They dealt with my project in a professional and meticulous manner. Overall a fantastic experience. “ We have sent the design off to Planning Permission! Looking forward to seeing the transformation on site!
High Street, Rhosneigr
An Architectural Transformation Located in the heart of Rhosneigr village on Anglesey, this High Street project involves the renovation and extension of an existing building, converting it into two spacious holiday rentals. This development is a significant positive transformation for the village, contributing to Rhosneigr’s tourism economy by providing high-quality accommodation with ample parking, all within close proximity to the beach. Challenges and Solutions The primary challenge of the project was to reimagine the existing commercial floor plans at ground level and maximise value for the site. Buju Architects approached this challenge by creating expansive open-plan living areas on the ground floor and by making the most of the existing building, minimising additional development costs. Design Concept and Process Our design concept revolves around creating two premium holiday homes, inviting families and friends to enjoy the charm of Rhosneigr village and its picturesque surroundings. The generous open-plan spaces serve as vibrant social hubs, complemented by comfortable bedrooms, en-suites and additional features such as a sauna, jacuzzi, and terrace. The architectural style is simple, to harmonise with the local vernacular – with white render accented by timber-effect cladding and recycled sea-glass, paying homage to the coastal setting. Architectural Service Buju Architects provided a comprehensive architectural service, including the exploration of various concept designs, preparation of drawings to secure full planning permission, coordination with engineers and creation of technical drawings for construction. Currently, we are in the process of finding a contractor for the project and eagerly anticipate its progression. Sustainability Focus In addition to its aesthetic appeal, sustainability is a key focus of the project. Buju Architects incorporated extra insulation and high-performance components to achieve a very sustainable renovation and extension. Furthermore, by repurposing the existing building instead of demolition, we significantly reduced the project’s embodied carbon footprint. This High Street project exemplifies Buju Architects’ commitment to innovative design, sustainability and quality craftsmanship. Contact us today to discuss your next architectural venture.
Wallgate, Wigan
Commercial to Residential Conversion: Creation of 5 apartments in the centre of Wigan within a listed Grade 2 former office building. Buju Architects were an integral part of the team to create these 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in this listed building in the centre of Wigan, close to local amenities and with a fabulous outlook around the church. We took care in designing the alterations, including addressing the acoustic and fire performance measures in the building for its new residential use. We retained the existing sash windows and building façade whilst altering the internal layout that optimises the amount of space in each apartment. Key Services: We worked closely with the client, structural engineer and contractor to help deliver this quality development. Click here to download: Case Study – Wallgate Wigan
Wellington Road South, Stockport
Overview We’re excited to announce that we’re currently working on a mixed-use development in our hometown of Stockport. The scheme comprises of the conversion and extension of a disused pub, which will create 14 new apartments along with 2 ground floor retail units. Summary Situated by the historic Grade II* listed Plaza Cinema and ongoing Stockport Interchange development, the architectural aesthetics of the building have been carefully considered to sit within the town centre’s conservation area. The existing building is currently in a state of disrepair, with a large majority of the cement render and feature details falling off, as well as most of the windows being boarded up for safety reasons.Our intention is to strip off the remaining cement render and restore and repair the brickwork beneath. All of the existing windows will then be replaced with traditional looking windows to authentically replicate the aesthetic of the original building. In conjunction with the existing building, a more modern, curved brick extension will be added. This extension will feature dark aluminium window frames, along with areas of extruded brickwork detailing, adding value to the overall architectural aesthetic.This extension will also remain sympathetic to the existing building by replicating brick soldier course lintels over the windows and projecting concrete sills. The Challenge The site features extreme changes in levels, requiring careful consideration during the concept design process. The existing building consists of four storeys, all of which are visible from Mersey Square, however, only the upper two storeys are visible from the Wellington Road South elevation. In conjunction with this, the new extension will consist of five storeys, with the top of the parapet situated just below the existing gable chimneys. The connection between the existing building and proposed extension was studied in detail, as we were keen to minimise the requirement of steps within the circulation spaces of the apartments. We also wanted to ensure that we’re achieving level access around the perimeter of the building at ground floor level, for the various entrances and exits. We’re really excited to be part of this project and look forward to developing it further over the coming months. If you’ve got a project that you would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! Click here to download: Case Study – Wellington Road South, Stockport