18 Bed HMO, Stockport
This proposal outlines the redevelopment of a commercial building into a new-build 18-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The project strongly aligns with the Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council’s 2030 housing vision, which aims to ensure residents have access to the right homes in the right locations. By providing safe, sustainable, and accessible accommodation, this development will actively contribute to fostering independent living and flourishing communities. Furthermore, it will assist the Council in meeting its identified target of delivering 20,162 new homes by 2039 Design and Scale Privacy and neighbouring amenity protecting the privacy of existing local residents is a primary consideration for this development. Because the western and southern boundaries of the site overlook the parking area of an adjacent apartment building, specific design measures have been implemented to prevent any unacceptable loss of privacy. Consequently, to eliminate the risk of overlooking neighbouring dwellings, all new windows will be strictly confined to the northern and eastern elevations.
Compstall Mills, Stockport
A landmark regeneration project delivering new homes while preserving the industrial heritage of Compstall Mills. At a Glance The Challenge: Unlocking a Complex Industrial Site Located on a challenging ‘L’ shaped plot between the River Etherow, a country park reservoir, and a busy main road, Compstall Mills represents a significant opportunity for regeneration in Stockport. The site is steeped in history but fraught with technical constraints. The brief required navigating a significant 6m level difference, managing flood risk, and addressing the structural integrity of existing industrial buildings. Crucially, previous planning approvals for this site had stalled due to a lack of commercial viability. Our objective was clear: to design a cost-effective, high-value housing development that is respectful of the local heritage, improves biodiversity, and finally delivers on the site’s potential. The Solution: A Connected Masterplan As both the lead Architects in Stockport for this scheme and a member of the development consortium, we approached the site with a focus on placemaking and feasibility. Our concept creates a cohesive community by blending mill conversion apartments with new-build homes, centered around a new public heart. 1. Scotland Homes (Roadside Frontage) To improve the streetscape along Andrew Street, we designed 12 new-build semi-detached houses. The architecture creates a bridge between the past and future, featuring a saw-tooth roof design that mirrors the original mill profiles while optimizing south-facing orientation for solar PVs. 2. Noah House Navigating the site’s challenging topography, this building sits against a 6m retaining wall. It features new apartments. 3. Victoria Mill & Albert House Victoria Mill is the historic centrepiece of the site. We are retaining this asset, converting it into apartments. Adjacent to this, the new-build “Albert House” provides additional apartments and facilities. 4. The Heritage Garden Between the residential zones lies the Heritage Garden. Centered around the site’s original water wheel, this public realm improves connections across the site and celebrates the area’s industrial history. 5. Riverside Living Parallel to the River Etherow, we have proposed new-build homes. These new properties are designed with a sophisticated, simple aesthetic that respects the scale and architectural structure of Victoria Mill, offering families south-facing living spaces and off-road parking. The Result By balancing retention with strategic demolition, we have created a viable scheme that delivers new homes and improved public access. The project has received unanimous support and excitement from the shareholder consortium. The site has successfully been allocated in the Council’s local plan, with positive initial feedback from the council and consultants regarding our approach to conservation and design quality. We are currently engaged in pre-app conversations and the design is subject to change.No enquiries yet please for the purchase of individual properties.
Garden View, Marple Bridge
Tradition Meets Innovation Nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Marple Bridge, Stockport, Garden View is a new-build family home that seamlessly blends traditional aesthetics with contemporary environmental design. Situated on a picturesque road adorned with traditional homes, this project pays homage to its surroundings while embracing modern sustainability practices. Aesthetic Sensitivity and Environmental Consciousness With a traditional appearance at the front elevation and a more contemporary design at the rear, Garden View strikes a delicate balance between respecting its context and embracing innovation. The house features low eaves and rooms within the roof space, maintaining a traditional charm while incorporating cutting-edge environmental technologies such as highly insulated building fabric, air-tight membranes in the walls, and Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems. Local Expertise and Commitment to Excellence As a local architectural practice, Buju Architects has been intimately involved in every stage of the project, from initial client meetings on-site to presenting the design at the Planning Committee and coordinating all aspects of the technical design for construction. Garden View exemplifies Buju Architects’ dedication to creating visually striking architecture that excels both functionally and environmentally. Meeting Design Challenges with Innovation The primary challenge of the project was to develop a sensitive design that harmonised with the surrounding context while maximising the potential of the sloping site. Through extensive consultations with neighbours and feedback from the planning authority, Buju Architects explored various building designs and positions, ultimately achieving a supported design – with a minimised impact on the neighbours. Conceptualising a Forever Home At the heart of the project was the concept of creating a forever home for a family that prioritised energy efficiency and practicality. The design features a spacious open-plan living area at the rear, seamlessly connecting with the garden. Steep roof pitches and vaulted ceilings ensure that the first-floor bedrooms feel light and airy, enhancing the overall sense of space and comfort. Sustainable Solutions for the Future Sustainability has been a central focus from the project’s inception, with features such as an air-source heat pump, solar panels, and a large central roof light (for stack ventilation and summer cooling) contributing to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Charging points for electric cars further enhance the home’s eco-friendly credentials. A Testament to Vision and Collaboration Buju Architects has led the design process through the RIBA stages, collaborating closely with engineers, quantity surveyors and contractors to bring the vision of Garden View to life. With the project currently on-site, Buju Architects looks forward to its completion, confident in its positive impact on the area and the creation of a home that the client can cherish for years to come. Build Your Dream Home If you’re considering building your own dream home, contact Buju Architects to arrange a Feasibility Meeting and let’s embark on the journey to creating your perfect sanctuary.
Kinder View, Marple
A Sustainable Retreat by the Canal Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Marple, Stockport, Kinder View is an environmentally-friendly new-build dormer bungalow, thoughtfully designed with a focus on nature and materiality. Situated adjacent to the canal, this re-build home replaces a bungalow on the site, aiming to create a lifetime sanctuary for its residents while minimising its environmental impact. Commitment to Sustainability From the outset, our clients prioritised creating a very environmentally-friendly home with low embodied carbon. To achieve this, it was decided early on that the house would be timber-framed, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. At Buju Architects, we relish the opportunity to work on new-build homes for private clients, especially when environmental design is a top priority. Harmonious Design in a Sensitive Area Designing a replacement home in a sensitive area presented its challenges. Our aim was to ensure that the architecture of the home reflected the geometry and materiality of the context, while incorporating contemporary design features and benefits of modern living. A landscape architect, planning advisor and engineers were consulted to help prepare a comprehensive planning application that received unanimous support from the Local Planning Committee. Blending with the Landscape Kinder View is meticulously designed to harmonise with its surroundings, respecting neighbouring buildings and the local environment. Low roof eaves levels and natural materials contribute to its sensitive design and massing. The main bedrooms are strategically located in the roof space to maximise the building’s volume and take full advantage of the picturesque views of the canal basin and Kinder Mountain. Craftsmanship and Materiality The facade features quality materials throughout, with carpentry-designed Oak frames adding character to the entrance, carport and rear patio. A large feature window in the lounge offers a captivating view of the canal basin and Kinder Mountain, enhancing the connection with nature. Towards Realisation Buju Architects has successfully completed RIBA Stages 1-4 of the project, including the concept design development, obtaining planning approval and coordinating the technical design for construction. We look forward to commencing on-site this year (RIBA Stage 5), bringing the vision of Kinder View to life. Build Your Dream Home If you’re considering building your own home, leveraging an existing low-value building for re-development is an excellent strategy. Contact us to arrange a Feasibility Meeting for your next project – let’s turn your dream home into a reality!
Bay View, Beaumaris
A Visionary Home Design Perched on a vacant, sloping site overlooking the picturesque coast of Beaumaris, Anglesey, Bay View stands as an exemplary home design that seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with sustainability. Nestled cleverly into the sloping landscape, this new-build home represents a testament to innovative architecture and thoughtful integration with its natural surroundings. Meeting Challenges with Creative Solutions The main challenge of the project was to meet the client’s brief while ensuring the design harmonised with the neighbouring buildings. Through on-site discussions, we developed a concept where the lower ground floor was integrated into the landscape, with a main entrance at the middle level. A double-gable design with steeply pitched roofs kept the eaves low and responded sensitively to the context. Maximising Views and Functionality The main concept of the house revolves around maximising views of the bay with expansive glass and a large balcony on the front façade. The top floor hosts spacious open-plan living areas that seamlessly connect with the outdoor balcony. Despite the lower-ground floor being predominantly below ground, it accommodates a vehicular entrance, garage, utility space, plant room, media room and gym, ensuring both functionality and comfort. Sustainability at the Forefront Sustainability is integral to the design, with careful consideration given to insulation, air-tightness and the implementation of a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system. Natural materials ground the building on site, fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape and forest. The rear of the house maintains a simple, fuss-free aesthetic, enhancing its integration with nature. Project Progression and Future Endeavours Buju Architects have completed RIBA Stages 1-3 of the design process and eagerly anticipate securing planning approval to progress to the technical design stage (RIBA Stage 4). Our collaborative approach involves coordinating with consultants, including landscape architects and structural engineers, to ensure comprehensive planning documentation. With the design approved, we are committed to advancing the project through its stages and welcome enquiries for future projects.
Larkhill, Marple Bridge
A Modern New-Build within Green Belt Nestled within the Green Belt in Marple Bridge, Stockport, Larkhill stands as an exemplary home of modern architecture, tailored to the client’s brief and site constraints. This replacement home and leisure building epitomises innovative design and meticulous planning, achieving full planning approval within a rural landscape of stunning beauty. Capturing Countryside Views Situated on a sloping site, Larkhill offers panoramic views of the picturesque surrounding countryside. A key feature of the home is its upstairs living space, complete with a large south-facing balcony, offering residents a wonderful connection to the natural landscape. Navigating Planning Restrictions The project faced significant planning restrictions within the Green Belt, expertly navigated through a comprehensive planning strategy developed in collaboration with a planning consultant. Multiple applications of Permitted Development were supported before completing a design and Full Planning Application for the new-build replacement dwelling. The architectural design, characterised by its modern and dramatic aesthetic, received unanimous approval at the local planning committee meeting, thanks to its high-quality design and adherence to volume restrictions. Sustainable Design and Integration Principles of Passive House Design are seamlessly integrated into the architecture, with a focus on simplicity, energy efficiency and natural ventilation. The leisure building, cutting into the topography with retaining walls, features a single-story design with a green roof, blending harmoniously with the landscape. Natural materials are utilised throughout, grounding the building in its surroundings. Luxurious Amenities and Functional Spaces The leisure building encompasses a 4-car garage, gym and swimming pool. In the house, the upstairs boasts a feature atrium with a spiral staircase, a home cinema room and ample living areas oriented towards the south for optimal sunlight and views. Project Progression and Future Endeavours The design process began with on-site discussions to refine the brief and develop initial strategies. Concept designs were refined and approved, leading to planning submission and the progression to Technical Design (RIBA Stage 4). Buju Architects eagerly anticipates advancing the project on-site, with the Local Planning Committee expressing anticipation for its completion as an architectural landmark in the area. Your Dream Home Awaits If you’re ready to turn your dream home into a reality, contact Buju Architects today. We’re committed to delivering innovative and bespoke architectural solutions tailored to your requirements.
Coed Mor, Llanfaelog
Creating Sustainable Homes The Coed Mor project marks the re-development of a garden plot into four new-build detached homes, comprising two 3-bedroom and two 4-bedroom residences. Nestled in Llanfaelog on Anglesey, along the road into Rhosneigr, these open-market homes offer modern living in a sought-after location. Strategic Importance This project holds strategic importance for Buju Architects as we seek a financial and development partner to collaborate on a joint venture. With Outline Planning Approval secured, we are poised to progress towards Full Planning Approval, focusing on sustainable architecture principles to minimise embodied carbon, running costs and maintenance requirements. Director Andy Wilde’s recent qualification as a Passive House Designer underscores our commitment to making this development an exemplary scheme for North Wales and our architectural portfolio. Overcoming Challenges with Expertise Navigating challenges such as the existing trees, vehicular requirements and biodiversity considerations required a collaborative approach. Accurate measured surveys and specialist advice from consultants ensured informed decision-making and effective solutions, enhancing project feasibility and sustainability. Concept and Design Approach The concept for Coed Mor is to utilise an underused piece of land with good access, to provide much-needed homes, contributing to the local council’s housing targets. Our design ethos balances respect for the area’s character with progressive style and performance standards. South-facing gardens, off-road parking and detached layouts reflect our commitment to creating desirable and functional living spaces. Client Satisfaction and Future Endeavours With Outline Planning Approval secured, our client is delighted and we eagerly anticipate delivering similar schemes across the UK. Buju Architects welcomes enquiries from potential partners and clients interested in sustainable and innovative architectural solutions.
Hendrix House, Stockport
Redefining Urban Living The Hendrix House project marks a significant milestone for Buju Architects, with the redevelopment of a commercial site in Stockport into a vibrant residential community. Comprising 33 highly sustainable apartments to Passive House standards, this project epitomises our commitment to innovation and environmental design. Local Engagement and Sensitivity Located in close proximity to our office in Stockport, the site holds special significance for us as a local architectural practice. Recognising the importance of the area’s heritage, conservation status and listed buildings, we approached this project with utmost sensitivity and care. Addressing Challenges with Innovative Solutions The site presented unique challenges, including an extreme level change, surrounding buildings of varying scales and an important history. In response to these challenges and opportunities, we procured a detailed 3D survey to understand the context of the geometry thoroughly. Collaborating with a planning consultant and engaging in pre-application discussions with the council allowed us to understand the history of the site and influence our design proposals to align with regulatory requirements and preferences – prior to submitting an application for approval. Design Concept: Blending Tradition with Innovation Our latest design concept divides the project into two buildings, harmonising with the local character and site constraints. Improving the existing access and car park location minimised the impact on neighbouring buildings. The larger building features a roof garden, providing shared amenity space for residents to enjoy. Paying homage to the area’s history and materials, our architectural style seamlessly integrates contemporary elements, setting a new standard for sustainable development. Setting the Standard for Sustainable Living Buju Architects is committed to setting the standard for sustainable residential development, exemplified by our director’s recent qualification as a Passive House Designer. We are dedicated to ensuring that Hendrix House becomes a beacon of sustainability and architectural excellence in the community. Positive Impact on the Local Community The Hendrix House project promises to revitalise the local area, enhancing both its utilisation and aesthetic appeal while honouring its heritage. We look forward to presenting our latest design to the council and continuing our journey towards creating a vibrant, sustainable urban living environment in Stockport.
Waterloo Road, Stockport
We are thrilled to present our visionary proposal for new residential apartments on Waterloo Road, nestled within the conservation area of Stockport. Our design harmoniously responds to the existing neighbouring buildings with an aim to elevate and enrich the local surroundings. The existing site, with its sloping green bank and two-story buildings, presents an incredible opportunity for redevelopment. The current structures will be demolished to create 46 stunning apartments. By carefully considering the massing and scale, we have ensured that our development seamlessly integrates into the existing fabric of Waterloo Road. The goal is to create a cohesive streetscape that respects the historical context while offering a fresh and contemporary vision for urban living. The addition of thoughtfully planned commercial spaces will further enrich the area, fostering economic growth and enhancing the convenience and accessibility of daily life for both residents and locals. Recognising the importance of green spaces in fostering a thriving community, our proposal includes a strong emphasis on enhancing the natural environment. We aim to improve the overall green space within and around the development, creating pockets of tranquillity for residents and the wider neighbourhood to enjoy. We have carefully considered communal spaces, such as rooftop gardens and shared facilities, to foster social connections among residents. We look forward to seeing this project progress further. Click here to download: Case Study – Hendrix House
Coronation Walks, Southport
Commercial to Residential Conversion: Conversion of a former night club into residential use in the heart of Southport. 16 new apartments above an existing bar Situated in the Southport conservation area the apartments have been fitted out to a high standard and furnished to form serviced accommodation. This development will provide a great environment and base from which to enjoy the attractions available in Southport. We took care in considering the alterations whilst addressing the acoustic and fire performance measures in the building with its new uses, including bespoke timber framed windows facing Coronation Walk. Key Services: We worked closely with the client, project manager, contractor and interior designer to help deliver this quality development. Click here to download: Case Study – Coronation Walks, Southport