An impact of the ban on combustibles
Coffey Architects looks closely at any changes in regulations to ensure we can provide the most incredible residential architecture London has. There are many restrictions to consider. Each of them can affect projects so it wise to know what they are from the outset. That way we avoid going in the wrong direction.At the end of November the UK Government put a ban on the use of combustible materials on new high rise homes. As a result any new build housing over 18 metres tall cannot contain them. This may have a big impact on developers. It could also affect building designs. Architects will need to look for alternatives and the cost will likely be higher.
Conversions
In London it is quite popular to convert old office buildings into housing. Planning policies on this kind of conversion are easier now, allowing more projects. Unfortunately while the ban on combustibles doesn't apply to old buildings, it does on these conversions. Therefore if the building has a combustible the developer must remove it. In addition any new materials must be fire proof.The Ministry of Housing predicts that the policy will affect 75 of these conversion projects per year. The move could also add £5.9million to the building cost per annum. This could deter some developers.
Safety
The move will help to improve the quality of office to resi conversions. More importantly it will boost safety. Most offices are built to higher fire standards because there is an obligation to ensure staff can evacuate safely. This is great for housing as long as the changes don't compromise access. Residents should also have details of what to do if there is a fire.At Coffey Architects we know how important safety is. We work to meet regulations on all of our projects. We will comply with the new ban on combustibles on any project that it applies to.If you have any questions about residential architecture London has nobody better to talk to. Our team are passionate and can create ingenious designs. Ask us for tips or ideas; we can add value to your project.