Black Olive Construction are an experienced design & build company for property renovations, refurbishments and extensions in Brighton, Hove and Sussex. Listed building repairs, refurbishments and restorations require additional care and attention, and we take pride in our considerable expertise to undertake listed building works with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism.
Whether you are the proud owner of a historic home or the custodian of a commercial heritage asset, our multi-skilled team can help you with property refurbishments that honour the historic building fabric and comply with all legal requirements, including the following types of work:
- Structural repairs, including work to timber beams, masonry walls or roof structures
- Roof repairs and restoration of traditional roof coverings, architectural features and details
- Period window and door restoration, including sash windows and historic entrance doors
- Lime mortar pointing to preserve the building’s historic character and integrity
- Internal refurbishments including plasterwork, fireplaces, staircases and other features
- Refurbishment and redesign of kitchens and bathrooms
- Service upgrades for electrics, plumbing and heating systems
What does it mean if a building is listed?
Listed buildings are recognised and legally protected for their special architectural, historical or cultural significance. The listed status confers a level of protection to ensure that these buildings are preserved and that no inappropriate alteration or demolition can take place. In this way, the country’s architectural heritage is safeguarded, and important buildings and structures can be suitably maintained.
The listed building status typically applies to the exterior of the building, however specific interior features, outbuildings, boundary walls and grounds may also be included.
According to the National Heritage List for England, there are three main categories of listed buildings:
Grade I listed buildings are deemed to be of exceptional national importance. They represent around 2.5% of all listed buildings. The Royal Pavilion, Sussex Square and Brunswick Square are good examples in Brighton & Hove.
Grade II* listed buildings constitute 5.5% of the total. They have a special architectural or historic interest that is of more than local importance. Lancing College and Petworth House are good examples in West Sussex.
Most listed buildings are Grade II listed, and many of them are residential properties. These buildings are of special interest and may have local or regional significance in terms of their history or architecture.
What restrictions are there on renovating a listed building?
Before you can make any alterations to a listed building, it is crucial that the proper legal process is followed. At Black Olive Construction, we have extensive experience consulting with local planning authorities, conservation officers and heritage departments, so that we have full knowledge of the specific restrictions and requirements that apply to your project and can proceed accordingly.
Planning Permission will be required for proposed alterations, extensions or demolitions, and additional Listed Building Consent is needed specifically for works affecting the character or fabric of the listed building.
Building and renovation works that will require Listed Building Consent include:
- Building extensions and demolitions
- Replacement windows and secondary glazing
- Removing internal plasterwork to walls or ceilings
- Proposed repairs in non-matching materials
- Removing or altering internal features, e.g. fireplaces, timber doors, cupboards, panelling
- Changing the property’s internal layout
- New plumbing, where this impacts on the listed status
- Painting original surfaces that will affect the visual impact and character of the building
How can Black Olive Construction help?
Black Olive Construction is a highly respected Brighton-based building company that offers far more than the services of a general building contractor. We deliver complete design & build solutions for residential projects of all types and sizes, including listed building restorations. Our multidisciplinary team can provide architectural design and planning services, structural and mechanical engineering, landscaping and interior design and full project management.
We have developed a trusted network of expert professionals, tradespeople and suppliers who share our non-negotiable values of professionalism and integrity. Whether you are looking to refurbish a single room or an entire listed property, we can bring together all the required specialist expertise under our control to deliver a complete design & build service. Get in touch with our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to instruct an architect?
It is advisable to involve architectural services and planning consultancy in preparation for refurbishment or restoration works on a listed building. You need to obtain Listed Building Consent before any works can proceed – indeed, it is a criminal offence to carry out unauthorised work on a listed building. Planning Consent will also be needed for exterior works. As a vertically integrated company, Black Olive Construction implement complete design solutions to support our building activities. This includes architectural design and planning, as necessary to the project.
What is Listed Building Consent and how do I get it?
When a building is given a listed status, additional planning controls are put in place for alterations that affect the character of appearance of the building and any specific features that are deemed to be of special architectural or historical significance. An application for Listed Building Consent usually takes around 8 weeks. Listed buildings often have unique features that require sensitive handling, which is why an experienced planning, design & build company provides valuable expertise and guidance throughout the entire process.
How much does it cost to renovate a listed building?
The cost of any building project largely depends on the scope of the work required. No two projects are ever the same, and we would be delighted to provide you with a personalised no-obligation quote. When it comes to listed buildings, bear in mind that the cost of an average Grade II listed building renovation will be around a third higher than for a standard property. In addition to the extra permissions, the job will require specialist materials and tradespeople skilled in traditional construction methods. At Black Olive Construction, we have effective management processes in place to ensure your project is planned and executed efficiently, making the most of your budget.
Contact us
Get in touch with us today
At Black Olive Construction, we have extensive experience providing listed building restoration services for clients in Sussex including Brighton & Hove. Contact us today to find out more about our services and to discuss your design ideas.
Phone
info@blackoliveconstruction.co.uk
Address
Studio 215 Regency House
91 Western Road
Brighton
East Sussex
BN1 2NW
