33 Architecture targeting growth with office plans

The founder of 33 Architecture has revealed his intentions to grow the business and create new jobs, following the submission of plans to transform the disused Potting Shed in Hexham into a commercial office space.Insider revealed in July that the company had submitted plans to Northumberland County Council to revamp The Potting Shed, which closed in 2018 and has since stood empty and fallen into disrepair.Under the plans, the company hopes to develop the existing studio to provide office accommodation for four small businesses, and retain one unit for its own purposes.Founder of 33 Architecture Ollie 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 businesses 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.”He added: “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 that the final building would be tightly woven into the DNA of this historic town.”From the new aspects of the building being based on a similar blueprint to the existing site, to the hand-picked buff bricks and stone to help it match into the surrounding area, 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 and it’s been fantastic working with them on the project.”