For the Love of Listed Buildings
The search for an individual property is unique to everyone, that’s all part of the excitement and the challenge. The Recoco team have the privilege of visiting many fine homes all over Great Britain, of all ages, styles, sizes and prices. Two words remain a constant confusion, or indeed fear, for many potential buyers, those being ‘Listed Building’. What does this really mean? For a buyer is it the kiss of death or a fantastic opportunity?
“A building is listed when it is of special architectural or historic interest considered to be of national importance and therefore worth protecting,” Historic England
These historic properties are part of our rich heritage, however that this doesn’t mean that every Listed property needs to be preserved in aspic; far from it.
Many Listed Buildings provide lovely homes, as they have probably done over many years, requiring no changes at all. With little or no planning restrictions many were naturally built in some of the most fabulous locations, totally unachievable today; often an incentive itself to look beyond the existing. Offering a rare opportunity, through a sympathetic and imaginative approach, these buildings can be modified to create some really fabulous and special homes; such a project can be hugely rewarding and incredibly satisfying.
Respecting the inherent character and features of the Listed Building, some can be considered work in progress. Homes can evolve and change over the years as do our needs, accommodating modern requirements and standards can be done. We emphasise that such projects should not be approached without the right professional advice; this is key. Blending expertise with imagination can produce some really fantastic results!
In conversation with Recoco recently, Perry Mears of Peregrine Mears Architects gave an illuminating insight as to why he loves the challenge and opportunities of working with a Listed Building. “The approach is different; imaginative design and flair can transform the original. Working on a Listed Building may take longer, as the detail required in the planning process is usually greater, with two levels of control, Planning Permission and Listed Building consent. It is not just about knowing the process and procedures. History. Design. Materials. Methods and more. Everything is open to scrutiny and discussion. We love these unique projects, immersing ourselves fully into their history and investing in the future!” Perry uses his experience and expertise to navigate his projects through the various challenges, which inevitably will arise. “Patience is a must together with realistic budgeting, but the results can be awesome and truly unique, designed just for you!”
“It is totally natural that buyers can be somewhat daunted when looking at a home for sale which is a Listed Building” continued Perry. “Discarding this to the ‘no’ pile can mean missing out on some of the most fabulous locations and interesting properties which, with the right imagination and expertise can be transformed way beyond your expectations. Perry has invited clients of Recoco to contact him, as part of your assessment for an initial discussion, without cost or obligation, wherever the property is located in the UK. Access to this valuable service allows our buyers to proceed (or not), with the reassurance that they have professional guidance and imagination to deliver something special, perhaps even changing a ‘no’ into that dream home! The search continues, but perhaps in a different direction? www.mearsarchitects.com