Continuing professional development

— 18 Jun 2018

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a commitment for professionals to continually engage with learning to develop their skills and proficiency.

Jonathan Rhind Architects is committed to investing in the ongoing continuing professional development of its staff to ensure that we keep up with the latest technologies, changes in standards and industry best practice. Not only does this build and develop our staff’s skills but it provides an ideal opportunity for the team to exchange ideas and discuss newly acquired experiences.

At the beginning of June, the Architects and Technologists from both the Somerset and Devon offices gathered together at the site of a recent barn conversion for an insightful look into how class Q legislation allowing for barn conversions in the countryside without the need for additional planning consent has been translated into reality. Subjects the CPD covered included:

• Under Class Q legislation the building cannot be extended beyond the existing envelope, and the team looked at how the existing structure has been enhanced to turn it into a beautiful family home. This included retaining the corrugated roof covering, and exposed timber frame, as well as the large openings to allow light to flood into the living spaces. A polished concrete floor and subtle steel reinforcement harks back to the agricultural heritage of the building.
• Sustainability – the mortgage provider's requirements were that the property had to meet certain energy ratings. To achieve this amongst other things, Jonathan Rhind Architects arranged the installation of solar panels, ACTIS Hybris insulation, and used locally sourced timber for the project.

For more information on Class Q legislation and how we can help with your barn conversion please see our Class Q blog here.

Following on from this only a few days later, the technical team from the Taunton Office (Senior Technologist, David Bridges, Technologist, Pete Thompson and Architectural Technician, Corey Sutherland) attended a CPD event run by Corbel Conservation. The event was held at Horton Court, which is a National Trust Property on the outskirts of Chipping Sodbury.

Dating from Norman Times the property underwent significant refurbishment, alteration and repair. The CPD event focussed on the contractor’s specialist work including stone roofing, internal and external masonry, goundworks, bespoke joinery and redecoration to create high specification, light airy living space. The team were excited to learn about some of the techniques used and will be able to utilise this knowledge for projects going forwards.