Elm Tree House

Elm Tree House is a residential development near Barnstaple, North Devon.

The site was originally occupied by a large agricultural barn approved for conversion under Class Q legislation. However, the client opted for a superior solution: a full planning application for two high-quality, replacement dwellings.

This approach, grounded in the fallback position established under the Mansell v Tonbridge & Malling BC case, enabled planning consent for new homes with clear design and sustainability advantages over the Class Q scheme.

Each five-bedroom dwelling has been carefully positioned within a courtyard-style layout, referencing traditional farmsteads. The homes are designed with a strong focus on architectural design, liveability, and contextual sensitivity. The materials—timber cladding, galvanised metal roofing, natural stone, and light timber-effect windows—create a contemporary yet rural aesthetic that complements the surrounding Devon landscape.

Internally, the homes feature open-plan layouts with generous glazing, providing daylight-filled living spaces that cater to modern family life. Bedrooms with en-suites, home offices, and integrated garages reflect a design tailored to current lifestyle needs. The stepped first-floor design also introduces passive solar shading to enhance energy performance.

This project demonstrates the value of appointing an architect company with planning expertise and a focus on eco-friendly home design. The result is a distinctive and highly functional scheme that respects its setting while showcasing the benefits of modern residential architecture in the countryside.