We've recently completed an exciting housing project in the heart of Guilsfield, transforming what was once a derelict garage into much needed homes for this north Powys village.
The old garage and shop had sat empty for some time after closing down. As often happens with abandoned commercial buildings, it had become something of an eyesore in an otherwise charming village setting. Our client recognised the opportunity to repurpose this prime site for better use.
When Hughes Architects came on board, we quickly understood the vision - to create affordable housing that would genuinely serve local needs. In villages like Guilsfield, younger residents often struggle to get onto the property ladder, with many forced to move away from the communities where they grew up.
Not everyone was convinced at first. We faced some reservations from locals, which is perfectly natural with any change to a village centre. Through conversations with the community, we were able to show how new homes would benefit Guilsfield, particularly by allowing younger people and families to remain in the area.
Supporting rural communities
Working with a central village location is always interesting. We wanted to make good use of the space while creating homes that felt right for their surroundings. The site's position meant residents would be able to walk to local amenities, adding to the village's sustainability and community feel.
The contrast between the old and new couldn't be more striking. Where the dilapidated garage once stood, attractive homes now blend into the village landscape. We've paid careful attention to ensure the development complements Guilsfield's character while providing comfortable modern living spaces.
There's something particularly satisfying about this kind of project. It's not just about building houses, it's about keeping rural communities alive. When villages can offer housing at different price points, they maintain a healthy mix of ages and family types, which keeps local schools, shops and pubs viable.
The project demonstrates what we often find in our work across rural Wales. With thoughtful design, former commercial sites can find new purpose as housing, improving both the look of a village and its long-term prospects.
We're particularly pleased to have helped create homes that should serve Guilsfield residents for many years to come.
