The Island

This converted timber framed bungalow is situated on an exclusive island in the middle of the Thames, which is only accessible by boat!

This was a design and build project which presented many challenges, the first of which was too achieve planning permission in an area with notorius planning policy. After careful and considered dialogue with the planners, acumen appointed chess structural consultants to draw up the scheme, which was later approved.

The second major challenge was to complete the project within the client’s strict budget and to reassess and re-evaluate continually to ensure optimum efficiency and value for money could be achieved.

As if the logistical challenges presented by a property that is accessible only by boat were not enough, acumen agreed to pitch the new roof without the safety of a temporary roof overhead. This was an ambitious undertaking and meant that the replacement roof had to be hand cut on the ground before a team of 15 carpenters and their assistants installed the roof and temporary weathering in one day! This alone saved the client in the region of £5000.

The finished product sits well within its surroundings and has enhanced the general appearance of the island from the mainland (see below for photo pre-works). For acumen it has sparked an interest in riverside properties and the technical challenges they present.