The client wanted to expand their existing centre of sustainable living into the existing disused buildings within their site. This involved the demolition of the existing trussed roof and concrete floor slab of an old farm steading leaving only the existing thick stone external walling. A new concrete floor slab was formed including concrete underpinning support for the external stone walling. The external walls were lined internally with timber stud and insulation and some slapping were required to form the compartments that made up the Hall, Creche, Store and Toilets.

Liaison with contractors was needed to install various sustainable energy systems including a biomass boiler (wood) which served the new conversion as well as the existing buildings in use elsewhere on site. Also air source heats pumps and two wind turbines were installed to power the whole site. Velux rooflights and sun tunnels provided extra light to the long Dining Hall.

Although not a qualified architect I was extremely happy to take on the project as I knew I stood to gain valuable experience by interactions with the client, councils, manufacturers, builder and contractors.