Bespoke Construction Group (formerly known as Bespoke Norfolk Group) has completed home building projects in Norfolk for several years. In that time, we have become the go-to choice for creating high end living spaces across East Anglia.
Because of this, there is no construction company more suitable than us to produce this guide to construction in Norfolk. If you expect to undertake a home construction project in Norfolk soon or in the future, this guide will provide you with the useful information necessary to start your project.
Whether you intend to improve your home with an entire home renovation or hope to build a custom home from the ground up, get started on the right path with this guide.
Getting Started With Construction in Norfolk
Norfolk is a county known for its stunning, windswept coastline; the famous Norfolk and Suffolk Broads; and charming villages flanked by farmland. Not only is Norfolk an ideal place to build for those seeking a quieter life in the countryside, but cities like Norwich offer modern living in a busy and booming community.
For construction projects in Norfolk, there are a lot of considerations to take on board. For instance, this historical county comes with a range of distinct architectural styles and, sometimes, strict building regulations. However, like Bespoke Construction Group, there are plenty of local construction professionals available to help you navigate the landscape.
And after reading this guide, you’ll have a deeper understanding of what it takes to build in this stunning slice of England.
Local Planning and Building Regulations
Norfolk’s diverse landscape, which is evident from such areas as the famed North Norfolk coastline, and marshlands of the broads presents unique considerations to those hoping to build here.
If you will be improving your home with something like a house extension or building your own new build home, understanding the national and local building regulations will serve you well. This way, your construction project will run smoothly and limit any potential setbacks. Here’s how to approach it:
- Identify your district council and understand the regulations: Norfolk is divided into seven district councils, each one operating with its own set of regulations. It’s important that you first identify which district council concerns you and then familiarise yourself with the regulations.
- The seven district councils are:
- The CNC Building Control: Altering an existing property or building a new house will likely require building control. CNC Building Control handles the building control services of five local authorities in Norfolk. Building regulations approval will be needed before you start building as it ensures any work to be done meets safety, energy and accessibility standards.
- Planning Permission: Residential planning applications must be submitted to your local planning authority (LPA) and approved before any building work may begin. However, it is possible to bypass this and build under permitted development rights instead. Read our guide: ‘Understanding Permitted Development Rights’
Building regulations and planning permissions can be a difficult and confusing undertaking. We advise that you work with a reliable local construction company or turnkey building contractor to complete your build. This way, you benefit from working with local experts who know how to adhere to all the necessary requirements.
Bespoke Construction Group, for example, have a 100% pass rate when it comes to planning permission.
Looking Back on the History of Construction in Norfolk
Norfolk’s Incredible Architectural Heritage
Norfolk’s built environment offers an immersive look back at the county’s history. For instance, the Romans left their mark in multiple ways, such as with the ruins of the Roman Caistor Fort. And when it comes to medieval splendour, architectural landmarks like Norwich Cathedral – built by the Normans – only enrich the county’s history further.
The history of construction in Norfolk is a story that can be told through the diverse architectural styles that make up Norfolk, each reflecting a specific era. Here are some key examples:
- Flint Cottages: Norfolk is home to many charming and historical cottages, particularly flint cottages. These homes are characterised by such features as exposed flint walls and thatched roofs.
- Georgian Townhouses: The streets of Norwich are lined with elegant townhouses dating back to the Georgian era. These houses are identified by their red brick facades and sash windows.
- Victorian Seaside Towns: Seaside towns, like Cromer and Sheringham, are key locations of Norfolk. Boasting a Victorian style, these seaside buildings come with colourful facades and elaborate detailing.
The buildings of Norfolk are also evidence of the county’s evolution. For example, the modernist architectural design of the Forum in Norwich shows that there is room for further development for construction in Norfolk.
Building Stones Used For Construction in Norfolk
If you’re planning a Norfolk construction project, it may be useful for you to know the history of what building stones have been used for construction in Norfolk. By understanding this part of Norfolk’s construction history, you can consider the materials that will be used in your own building project.
Some of the main building stones used in the county are:
- Flint: Known for its hardness and durability, using flint for new construction in Norfolk is a great way of adding historical charm and a touch of authenticity to your property. With its distinctive, knapped appearance it’s ideal for blending in with Norfolk’s architectural landscape. Flint cottages can be seen all over Norfolk in places such as Blakeney.
- Carstone: An iron-rich sandstone that is valued for its warm hues and incredible durability. Featured in the church of St. Mary in Sedgeford, carstone is suitable for both structural and decorative elements when used for construction in Norfolk.
- Chalk: In areas where it’s readily available, chalk has been used for various construction projects in Norfolk. Thanks to its soft, workable nature, it’s ideal for detailed carving and making up supporting walls alongside flint.
- Red Brick: Historical buildings in Norwich, like Norwich City Hall, and many residential buildings use red brick. It’s a common building material in Norfolk, known for its strength and durability. Red brick’s distinct colour and texture help newly built homes blend in well with the county’s architectural style.
Key Considerations For Construction in Norfolk
Now that you have learnt more about the landscape and history of Norfolk, it’s important to get down to some key things to consider before building in this county.
Planning Permission and Permitted Development Rights
We’ve briefly touched on this before, but it’s worth bringing up again. When it comes to engaging with local planning authorities, do this as early as possible. This will help you to identify any potential issues or challenges that may arise. These could relate to land use, zoning, and environmental impact. By getting this sorted early, you can address concerns before they become significant. This is best achieved by working with a local construction company in Norfolk as they understand the process and intricacies involved.
Permitted development rights may be a possible avenue to explore for your construction project. These rights allow for certain building works to be completed without the need for planning permission. Be sure to research the guidelines and restrictions attached to these rights to see if they apply to your project. With permitted development rights, it’s usually smaller projects that benefit the most. For example, it’s more likely you could build a single-storey house extension under permitted development rights than a double-storey extension.
Sustainable Construction Practices
Norfolk’s commitment to preserving the natural environment has made sustainable building practices more appealing, and sometimes necessary. Creating a sustainable home could be as simple as installing solar panels to generate power or even building with timber. If you’re planning to build an extension, a timber frame extension could be ideal.
As well as utilising timber frame construction, you could build with other eco-friendly building materials, such as recycled metal or locally sourced stone, like the stones highlighted earlier in this article.
Norfolk Architectural Design
We’ve looked at the history of architecture in Norfolk, but when it comes to the architectural design of your project, what factors do you need to consider? Firstly, it’s a good idea to utilise local architectural design services for your build. Local architects and designers will have a deeper understanding of Norfolk’s architecture. In terms of design, they will be able to create a building that harmonises with the local landscape. They will also be the most familiar with local planning procedures.
The reason for looking at the history of Norfolk’s architecture is because the heritage of its buildings is something very important to the communities that live here. Specifically in areas of historical significance, like King’s Lynn, it’s ideal to blend the modern with the traditional as seamlessly as possible. Techniques like using local building materials and being subtle with modern integrations can achieve this balance.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Utilities and infrastructure mustn’t be overlooked when making improvements to your home or building a custom home. If you’re working with a turnkey building contractor or a full design and build construction company, this may not be so important for you to know. However, such things are worth spending some thought on. Especially if you’re set to build in one of Norfolk’s more rural areas, such as East Harling and Bridgham, you may require additional consideration to infrastructure.
The main things to consider regarding utilities and infrastructure include ensuring you have a reliable water supply; the availability of grid electricity or if you will require alternative energy sources; if you can access a stable internet connection and signal; how simple your property will be to access if in the countryside; and are there established and effective sewage and waste systems in place.
Build With a Local Construction Company in Norfolk
Construction projects in Norfolk have seen some incredible properties being built that have, in some cases, transformed Norfolk into a haven for high-end living. Others have complimented the rustic and historical charm of Norfolk by building stunning barn conversion homes and renovating older properties with sympathy. Could you be the next to build something outstanding in this lovely county?
To conclude this guide to construction in Norfolk, we wanted to leave you with, what we believe to be, the best advice. That is to work with a local construction company for your project. There are so many benefits in doing so, such as benefiting from their experience with local planning and building regulations. It just makes sense – to leave your mark on Norfolk, who better to help you do so than those who have done so on numerous occasions.
Bespoke Construction Group are professional local building experts in Norfolk and can help you create the high-end living space you’ve always dreamed of calling your own. To get started, speak to our team today.
