WHITE TOWERS, BLUNTISHAM (UK)

Adaptive reuse of an existing agricultural shed to create four new dwellings

​Location:           Bluntisham, Cambridgeshire (UK)  
Project Value: €500,000 
Size:                     300 m2      
Client:                  RBP Ventures
Year:                    2025
Collaborators:  TD Structures, Doherty Energy
Contractor:        Redwood 
Photographs:     Inhabit Lab      
CGI:                        Joyce Gonzales
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"Often the most compelling transformations take place by using what’s already there."
Daniel Burston, Inhabit Lab

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This project consists of an adapted reuse of a disused and unassuming agricultural hanger into four new unique energy-efficient homes under UK permitted development rights (Class Q). 

A fabric-first approach resulted in a full upgrade to the building envelop which integrated sustainable materials such as wood fibre and dense packed cellulose insulation, high-grade timber windows, high levels of airtightness and was paired with an air source heat pump central heating system.

The existing concrete and steel structure was peeled back to its core to remove all existing hazardous cladding materials. A new timber frame structure was then set within to take the load of the new internal floors and walls.  

The proposal integrates biodiversity enhancement and habitat creation measures to support native wildlife species and forge a stronger connection with nature for its inhabitants. 

Adaptive reuse of existing buildings has continued to evolve and expand in recent years. These projects present an opportunity to explore strategies and tools that, through their materials, designs and uses, transform not only the life of buildings but also their surroundings.

IMAGES (ABOVE): Rear view of dwellings from communal bin and bike store    (RIGHT): The existing agricultural shed prior to works

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