Latest articles on self build and planning permission

How to build a Paragraph-80 home in the open countryside

An in-depth guide to Paragraph-80 Are you thinking about building a Paragraph-80 home in the open countryside? If you are thinking about how to build a paragraph-80 home in the open countryside we have set out below an in-depth guide. We focus on some of the most important questions we are often asked at Thomas […]
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Self build house in open countryside

About the project This dream self build house in open countryside is a triumph, as planning laws make it all but impossible to gain approval. However, the ‘all-but impossible’ – is at the cutting edge of the self build opportunity, and this self build project is a result of exemption clauses in planning law, which […]
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How to convert a Dutch barn

Planning consent for a Dutch barn conversion, on a farm in Herefordshire, into a residential development was given on condition that it was for tourism benefit. Richards Castle is a remote village near the north-western edge of Herefordshire, near Ludlow. A Dutch barn conversion is not alien in the landscape here, which is characterised by […]
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How to get planning in the Cotswolds

Do you have a piece of land, need permission or thinking about building in the Cotswolds, Cheltenham or Gloucestershire, follow the 8 simple steps in this Free guide to help you get planning permission granted for your project. This short video gives you a taste of what’s inside… The free guide also contains Thomas Studio […]
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Can I get planning permission in my garden?

10 Tips how to get planning permission in your garden Architect Garry Thomas sets out his 10 top tip rules how to get planning permission in your garden. Before applying for planning consent for a house in your garden these ten tips are a must read. Gardens can help you get on the housing ladder […]
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A Low Budget Grand Design – in a former Herefordshire Quarry

Low budget Grand Design – in former Herefordshire Quarry This contemporary low budget grand design in a Herefordshire Quarry, for Steph and Alex, is a project carried on whilst working at rra, and is the vision of architect Garry Thomas. Garry managed to gain planning permission for this low budget grand design in a […]
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How to build an indoor swimming pool next to a listed building

How a 10m x 5m pool can transform your home This indoor pool and private leisure-facility includes: a games room, snooker room, a pool hall, a shower facility and a gym area. The project is built on the side of a Grade 2 Listed building in rural Herefordshire. The property is a C17th farmhouse located […]
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House Extension gets a Wood Award

About the project The private house, located within an historic parkland setting is surrounded by mature ornamental trees. The commission consisted of removing a single-storey brick-built garage and replacing with a two storey contemporary addition to add space at the rear of the existing house, and provide views to the rear gardens. The project uses […]
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Garry Thomas Architect

Garry Thomas’s passion for architecture has been lifelong and has led him and his clients on the most extraordinary and award-winning journeys, including becoming a Top 25 Grand Designs Architect.

Now he delivers his unique skills and expertise with a national reach through his own independent practice, right back where it all started, in Fownhope, Herefordshire. Read more