New Build Residential Retreat Killinchy

The Brief:

To replace an existing agricultural barn with a new dwelling in a countryside setting.

The Solution:

To propose farm diversification comprising the replacement of an existing agricultural shed to provide for a 1½ storey building that is sensitively designed and appropriately sited to facilitate sustainable diversification associated with the ongoing operations of the existing farm business. Extensive 3D studies of the mass and visual impact of the proposal were undertaken through a Design Access Statement that provided a detailed analysis of the existing site and wider rural countryside. The Planning policy context was examined to support the development and included:

– Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035
– Ards & Down Area Plan, 2015
– Strategic Planning Policy Statement for Northern Ireland (SPPS)
– PPS21 Sustainable Development in the Countryside
– PPS2 Natural Heritage

Appearance was carefully managed to suit the rural context and provide a design with build-ability as a key consideration alongside sustainability to minimise negative environmental impacts, energy consumption, and effects on the surrounding environment/ecosystem.