Client: Geetie Singh-Watson
JGP was approached by Dartington based architects; Gillespie and Yunnie, to assist with the sympathetic renovation and remodelling of the Bull Inn, Totnes.
The Inn is Grade II listed and is also located within the Totnes Conservation Area. The proposals were to revitalise the building which at the time was empty and in a deteriorating condition since its closure in 2017.
The scheme retained the basic layout of the original building although some internal alterations were required to upgrade the kitchen and back of house facilities. The first and second floors were reorganised along with the construction of a two-storey extension to the rear of the building to provide 8 high-quality ensuite rooms.
JGP was tasked with inspecting and appraising the original building to establish its overall condition and to work closely with the architects to develop the scheme. Following preliminary designs, a contractor was appointed with the strip out works commencing late 2018.
Extending and altering historic buildings and structures has many unique challenges. Perhaps the most significant of these challenges is obtaining information on the existing structural elements and working with older materials and construction techniques. The previous backlog of disrepair had left the building in a dilapidated and run-down condition requiring significant repair prior to the refurbishment works. All repairs were carefully considered and specified using traditional materials and construction methods with much of the original fabric of the building remaining.
JGP worked closely with the contractor during the main works attending site to provide construction phase support, temporary support designs and general guidance allowing the building to be completed and opened in late 2019.
The Bull Inn is now a traditional pub centred around high-quality organic food, traditional ales, and eclectically designed bedrooms. Although now very new and unique, The Bull Inn still retains its original charm and positive contribution to the street scene within the Totnes Conservation Area.
For further information about the Bull Inn’s Storey and to view the amazing selection of food and drink they serve, be sure to check out their website www.bullinntotnes.co.uk/
Architect: Gillespie Yunnie Architects, Dartington, Totnes
https://www.gyarchitects.co.uk/projects/the-bull-inn/
Structural Engineers: John Grimes Partnership
Contractor: Stonewood Build Developments
https://stonewoodbuild.co.uk/portfolio/bull-inn-renovation
