Savills Architecture and Building Surveying division in the south west has been highly commended by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) in its annual Building Excellence Awards.

The commendation was awarded to Savills for Best Change of Use of an Existing Building or Conversion for a sensitive project to convert a series of historic buildings at the Enys Estate in Penryn.

The work involved the conversion of a collection of Grade II Listed agricultural barns dating back to around 1795 and last used by the Dutch Navy during the Second World War, into a courtyard development of nine residential dwellings, a café and visitor centre.

Savills used innovative 3D laser scanning to model the existing structure and Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology to produce the drawings, CGI images and an animated ‘walk through’ of the proposed development. In addition to the design, Savills project managed the work, which was undertaken by local contractors and delivered on time and under budget.

Mark Ledgard, a director in Savills Architecture and Building Surveying team, said: “Over 200 years old and out of use for more than 60 years, the barns were completely dilapidated and close to being lost.

"Their rescue, working with the historic fabric and layout, posed a considerable challenge. The project team worked meticulously and with unwavering commitment to produce and oversee the delivery of a conversion that honours their eminent past while securing them a viable future.

“The LABC is a leading industry voice and its award scheme is very well-respected, attracting hundreds of entries annually, therefore it is a privilege to be recognised.”

Chris Stanbury, LABC South West region vice-chair and building control group leader at Cornwall Council added: “The LABC Building Excellence Awards celebrate excellence in the creation of well-built, well-designed and high-performing buildings. The devil is truly in the detail when it comes to designing, building and inspecting works and our awards prioritise technical design and construction quality, over aesthetics alone.

“The Building Control team at Cornwall Council has worked closely with the Architecture and Building Surveying team at Savills for over 14 years. Savills has always engaged with us very openly at a really early stage with their projects, which helps us work with them, and their clients, to find solutions to tricky design problems. I’m delighted they have been recognised for their wonderful work on the Enys barns project, as it’s well deserved!”

The LABC South West Building Excellence Awards took place on Friday 24 May.