A former pottery shed in a Northumberland market town is set to be transformed into new studio space.
The Potting Shed building, in the centre of Hexham’s Conservation Area and town centre, is home to a retail unit and warehousing and manufacturing areas. Ollie Currie, founder of 33 Architecture Ltd, is now primed to turn the building into a number of small studio spaces, including a new base for his family business.
The closure of the pottery and retail business prompted him to look into purchasing the building, with a view to relocating the architecture studio, which he runs with his wife Rachel, to the town. Under the plans, the firm hopes to redevelop the existing pottery studio to provide office accommodation for four small businesses, including one for their own architects studio.
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Mr Currie said: “Rachel and I have been running 33 Architecture for seven years now from our old office in Corbridge to more recently working from home like so many other business and have gone on to secure work on a number of high-profile projects, from the extension and interior fit out at Bouchon Bistrot to Doxford Hall’s walled garden wedding venue and a number of high end residential dwellings.
“However, while working from home has served us well, we’re in a position now where we would really like to continue growing the business and create jobs for others looking to break into the industry. The only way that we can realistically achieve that is by finding a place of our own.
“We have been looking for the right place for some time now and by chance after a client meeting the prospect to consider the Potting Shed came about.
“It’s a beautiful building and one which, with the right care and attention dedicated to its regeneration, could really add to Hexham’s market town charm and we’re confident our plans, if approved, will allow us to achieve exactly that.”
Newcastle-based BH Planning & Design is the agency working on behalf of 33 Architecture on the planning application.
Mark Ketley, planning director at BH Planning & Design, said: “Having worked closely with Ollie on the plans for the Potting Shed, it’s clear to see just how much work has gone in to ensuring the final building would be tightly woven into the DNA of this historic town.
“The team have worked closely with residents and councillors to make sure the site and all of its amenities really add to the aesthetic of Hexham.”
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