At JSD we have been very busy working on some wonderful traditional homes around Devon and Cornwall, some of them listed or in the National Landscapes designation formally known as AONB – area of outstanding natural beauty.

These period properties provide a real challenge bringing them into the modern era and incorporating air source heat pumps, insulation, new plumbing and electrics.

Some properties face restrictions due to their listing such as retaining the old single glazing when a client would love to have new double or triple glazing, or installing showers at full pressure when somewhat antiquated plumbing has been the order of the day. This is all part of the challenge and finding ways to improve the comfort and functionality of the home are part of the designer’s job.

Our climate in the South West is pretty windy and rainy and ways to deal with surface water run off, flooding and damp walls are another day to day issue to be overcome. The beautiful wild life that surrounds us and makes living in the South West such a special place can also delay a project i.e., waiting for bats to emerge or disturbing the night time sky with light pollution through new areas of glazing.

Our focus is on complementary design and sustainable finishes to enhance the original house along with the benefits of low energy choices and designing spaces that are adaptable for lifetime homes.

We really enjoy working on properties where the Heritage report tells us something of the people and life that has gone before in a place, it certainly makes us appreciate the opportunity to be involved in securing the future of these special homes.