Clear Architects has submitted a detailed planning application for the Conversion and Redevelopment of Kimpton Grange, set within the Hertfordshire Green Belt. Comprising an innovative design proposal which brings together heritage, architectural integrity, an outstanding focus on sustainability and ecological enhancements.

The scheme has 5 key elements:

• The conversion of Kimpton Grange (the village’s historic Vicarage) into 6, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, taking a sensitive approach to refurbishment with very little external and internal change to fabric despite the new layouts.
• The demolition of a badly located existing barn and outbuildings to create 3 lake houses (heated by a Water Source Heat Pump via the existing lake, which is fed by the River Kim) and 2 garden cottages within the walled garden.
• The construction of 4 affordable 2-bed homes to the South of the site, continuing the built line of the houses along Kimpton Bottom.
• Proposed ‘gifting’ of land to the Parish and Forest school for Kimpton Primary school who collaborated in the proposal.
• Gifting of land to Kimpton Bottom Cottages to enable larger private rear garden spaces.

Creating Net Zero

The materials selection and construction methods have been carefully considered throughout.  The high-level architectural design will improve on the RIBA 2030 operational targets by 87% and the embodied CO2 emissions by 63%.

• New dwellings will feature Timber frame construction to reduce the amount of concrete and locally sourced reclaimed brick and slate will reduce the carbon impact and ensure sustainable construction.
• Using the local topography to nestle the new proposed homes into the land with will ensure they are more thermally efficient and will require minimal excavation works, reducing the carbon footprint of the proposal.
• A retention pond to the south of the site will manage surface water by gravity reducing the need for mechanical pumps, it will also provide a new super habitat for local ecology.
• Peatland Code carbon units will be purchased to offset the extremely low CO2 emission of the development to achieve a Net Zero development.
• Naturalistic landscape proposals result in Kimpton Grange achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain of 51%, and an increase total net change of 40% for linear habitats.  Far in excess of the Environment Bills 10% improvement.

“I’m thrilled to be able to transform this old vicarage into 6 stunning period apartments, and revitalise its grounds with Net Zero new build properties built around its lake and sensitively designed within its walled garden. With local engagement we have created 4 affordable homes for the village of Kimpton, and are gifting nearly 10 acres to the parish council to create a green space for the village to use. We are very proud to have brought this forward and very much hope the council join our vision.”  Melanie Clear

Find out more about this project HERE