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Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Bespoke Home Building in Kent
Vernacular Homes is a family-run architectural design and build company specialising in creating bespoke luxury homes across Kent, Sussex, and Surrey. With over two decades of experience, we combine innovative design, advanced technology like immersive 3D modelling, and hands-on project management to deliver tailored solutions for new builds, barn conversions, and property renovations. Our team takes full responsibility for every project phase, from initial planning and design to final construction, ensuring seamless coordination and client satisfaction.

We prioritise transparency, realistic budgeting, and heritage-sensitive approaches, particularly for conservation projects. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, problem-solving expertise, and post-completion support has earned us a reputation for transforming complex challenges into award-winning residential spaces.
Services
New Build Homes Barn Conversions Property Renovations Heritage Restorations Planning Applications Design Consultancy Project Management 3D Modelling Sustainable Builds Luxury Extensions
Details
  • Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
  • We have over 20 years of experience in bespoke home design and construction
  • We utilise immersive 3D modelling for complete design visualisation
  • We provide single-point project management for all builds
  • We specialise in heritage and conservation project adaptations
  • We guarantee transparent budgeting with no hidden costs
What people say
Excellent workmanship Stress-free process Creative solutions Transparent budgeting Timely completion
Services
New Build Homes
We design and construct bespoke new homes tailored to individual requirements. Our process combines architectural excellence with practical construction expertise to create energy-efficient, modern residences. Clients benefit from our end-to-end project management, 3D visualisation technology, and deep understanding of local planning regulations. Each home is crafted to harmonise with its surroundings while meeting contemporary living standards.
Barn Conversions
Specialists in transforming historic agricultural buildings into modern living spaces. We preserve original character features while integrating modern amenities. Our expertise includes navigating planning restrictions, structural reinforcement, and sustainable retrofitting. With over 50 successful conversions completed, we deliver functional, energy-efficient homes that respect historical integrity and local conservation guidelines.
Property Renovations
Comprehensive renovation services for existing properties, from minor updates to full-scale transformations. We handle structural modifications, interior redesigns, and exterior enhancements while maintaining building integrity. Our team manages all aspects including planning permissions, utility upgrades, and heritage considerations, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum value addition to residential properties.
Planning Applications
Full planning permission support for residential developments. Our experts prepare detailed submissions, handle local authority negotiations, and resolve design challenges. We specialise in complex cases including listed buildings, conservation areas, and agricultural conversions, leveraging our established relationships with planning departments to achieve successful outcomes for challenging projects.
Project Management
End-to-end construction management services ensuring seamless project delivery. We coordinate all trades, materials, and timelines while maintaining budget control. Our approach includes regular progress reporting, quality assurance checks, and client communication throughout the build process, guaranteeing timely completion of high-specification residential developments.
People
Oliver Burgess
Managing Director
With 20 years at Vernacular Homes, Oliver leads strategic direction while maintaining hands-on involvement in complex projects. His expertise spans architectural design, planning negotiations, and heritage adaptations, ensuring technical excellence across all developments.
Ashley Burgess
Construction Director
Leading site operations since 2006, Ashley brings 18 years of construction experience. He oversees project execution, quality control, and team coordination, ensuring adherence to timelines and specifications while maintaining exceptional craftsmanship standards.
Matthew Hopkins
Design Manager
As Design Manager since 2015, Matthew translates client visions into practical architectural solutions. With a background in building information modelling, he ensures technical feasibility while maintaining aesthetic integrity across all projects.
Edward Burgess
Project Manager
Co-founder with extensive construction project management experience. Edward oversees client relationships and project delivery, combining strategic oversight with detailed understanding of building regulations and construction methodologies.
Trevor Weeks
Commercial Manager
One of the founding directors with 37 years in construction. Trevor manages commercial aspects, client advisory services, and planning strategy, leveraging deep industry knowledge to guide clients through complex development processes.
Questions
What types of residential projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in new build homes, barn conversions, property renovations, and heritage restorations across Kent, Sussex, and Surrey.
How does your design and build process work?
We handle every stage from initial concept and planning applications through to construction and final finishes, providing single-point accountability.
Which areas do you cover for construction projects?
We operate primarily in Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, with extensive experience in rural and conservation area developments.
Can you help with challenging planning applications?
Yes, we specialise in complex planning cases including listed buildings, agricultural conversions, and conservation area projects.
What after-sales support do you provide?
We offer post-completion support including snagging resolution, maintenance advice, and extended warranty assistance.
How do you manage project budgets?
We provide detailed cost breakdowns with regular updates, ensuring transparent budget management and value-engineering where required.