LABC Building Excellence Awards

Congratulations to Hereward Homes Ltd for winning the Best Small New Housing Development at the LABC East Midlands Awards 2024!

Hereward Homes has breathed new life into a dilapidated farmyard and historic barns which were close to being lost forever at Vine Farm Back Lane Morcott, Rutland.

Morcott is a conservation area, so the vision was to create five new high specification homes which sensitively blend into the village and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.  Vine Farm comprises one full (Plot 5), one part barn conversion (Plot 1) and three new build properties set around a traditional farmyard layout dating from around 1860.

The architects, iPlan Architectural created a wide range of spacious 3 and 4 bedroom layouts, with floor areas ranging in size. The selling landowner and planners stipulated that the development must be of the highest quality (design and build) and blend in with the local vernacular.

Through meticulous planning and structural design, the existing barns were saved by extensive underpinning. Where needed, locally sourced natural quarried stone, blue slate and oak were adopted to complement the existing buildings.The environment was also kept front of mind. Many existing hedges and trees were retained, along with new planting to give the development an established feel, whilst retaining views over surrounding countryside.

The aim was to create outstanding homes that fit perfectly within their rural setting. Hereward Homes received many positive comments from new homeowners and village residents.

Good luck to Hereward Homes who now go through to the LABC Grand Finals 2024 on Friday 24 January 2025!