Potting shed in Hexham sees a fresh lease of life thanks to Northumberland based architects

A Northumberland architecture practice has unveiled plans to sympathetically convert a former Hexham pottery shed into a number of small studio spaces. Ollie Currie, founder of 33 Architecture Ltd, is the man behind the project, which, if approved will breathe new life into the ‘much-loved’ Potting Shed building.

The building, based just off Priestpopple in the heart of Hexham’s Conservation Area and town centre, currently houses a retail unit and warehousing and manufacturing areas. The closure of the pottery and retail business prompted Currie to enquire about purchasing the building with a view to relocating his existing architecture studio, which he runs with his wife Rachel, to the town.

Under the plans put to Northumberland County Council, the firm hopes to redevelop the existing pottery studio to provide office accommodation for four small businesses, including one for their own Architects studio.

Speaking about the plans, 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.

“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 that the final building would be tightly woven into the DNA of this historic town.”

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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