PLACES
Residential architecture has a particular appeal for David, which is why he came back to Guernsey and established DLM. ‘I wanted to have a more direct connection with clients; you see much more emotion, happiness and appreciation from someone’s personal project, their home. Although admiration of your work from your peers is encouraging, there’s nothing better than receiving praise from your clients.’ Not all architectural practices are created equal and engaging a chartered architect gives you the peace of mind that your project is in the hands of someone who has reached the highest level of their profession. Three years after forming DLM, David and his assistant Tom Gaudion are being joined by Technical Director Grant Steer, who has more than 15 years’ experience on the island and is widely respected within the industry. What really shines through with DLM is a positive attitude and a confidence that, no matter how challenging a site may be, a good solution can be found. As David explains: ‘Through a collaborative process we use considered and high quality architecture to unlock the potential of a site. What are sometimes perceived as restrictions are actually more like guidelines and therefore we can often find a way around them; it may just take a bit more thinking outside the box, but that’s our job and that’s why we enjoy coming to work every day.’ The draft Island Plan has had an impact on particular sites but David is unfazed by the challenge this represents. ‘The new policies will just require a slightly different approach. The actual architectural side of things shouldn’t really change because a project should still be designed in a way to suit the site and the client.’ If you are trying to do something special with a project, then the planning process may become more complex, but DLM believe that communication is key and that the Environment Department is proactive in working with architects to find solutions.
Existing chalet bungalow was no longer fit for purpose.
Mon Plaisir is a project that has recently received approval, but getting to this point was not plain sailing. The site is within the urban settlement area but overlapped by an area of landscape value, generally precluding any potential to develop. DLM had to consider not only the visual form of the new dwelling but the orientation and how it would avoid the trees and root protection areas. They demonstrated that no harm would be caused and, moreover, that the project would complement and enhance the site as an important landscape area. As the beautifully detailed drawings show, Mon Plaisir is destined to be a stunning and original home. From actually building The Coach House on Queen’s Road at the age of 22, David and his practice have come a long way. With each successful planning application comes the creation of a new precedent that increases the likelihood of a speedier solution in the future. ‘I understand the stress and frustration that delays put on people who just want to move on with their lives, and it’s important to keep an open communication with them. Our ethos has always been delivering what we’ve promised – working to a fixed fee and a fixed deadline and doing that to the best of our ability. Design should challenge convention, balance technology with
tradition and inspire those who experience it. We want to exceed our clients’ expectations.’ dlm.gg
TOP TIP FROM DLM: ‘The market isn’t great at the moment, so instead of selling up why not go back to the drawing board and design a house that suits your exact needs? You can realise the full financial potential of your home by creating a more attractive property that you may decide to remain living in, or a unique property that will sell quicker in a slower market.’ To find out more about DLM Architects visit dlm.gg or call David on 01481 701070 to schedule your free consultation.
Detailed planning drawings demonstrate how a proposed build sits within the sensitive landscape.
BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS
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