Converted Single Storey Barn - Proposed Extension, Interior Remodel & Design

A spatial reassessment / feasibility study for a former agricultural shippon, including proposals for a rear extension, side entrance porch / boot room, mezzanine level and external kitchen garden.

Our proposal lays emphasis on a parallel interior and the exterior landscape, the relationship between the existing brick built, trussed / vaulted roof building and a new extension with a focus towards the western sunsets.

Original window apertures are retained along the private edge of the plan and spaces organised accordingly to offer all sleeping areas natural daylight. Glazed sliding doors and fixed glazed units are proposed to the opposite side of the building, with the living kitchen area - a central social space, benefitting from both the character and height of the original trussed / vaulted roofline and a lowered ceiling above the working area.

The suggested extension allows the original external brick gable end to feature within the newly reconfigured plan, following the form of the existing barn & roof, linked via a wrap over aluminium profile glazed channel, defining existing and new architectural elements. A tied glulam beam and post frame is proposed for a greater span open vaulted ceiling, as a contemporary reflection of the existing barn, whilst following and retaining the original low profile of the agricultural form externally.

As the external terrain gently slopes, so the interior of the new extension follows, stepping down to a sunken effect living area. With the hearth always visually central to the social areas, from entry this offers a focal point and sense of arrival. Framed views of landscape and sky, via large apex windows heighten the sense of space, light and place as you arrive in the living area.

Proposed external materials include restored brickwork, oak cladding, aluminium profile roofing, powder coated aluminium heritage profile window and doors. Internally, pure white quartz surfaces and paintwork, are contrasted with a rustic and warm palette of terracotta herringbone floor tiles, cherrywood and European larch furniture and fittings.

Key considerations influencing our proposal within the greenbelt include; the retention of the buildings agricultural character; the extension aims to complement, rather than detract from the original shippon, by respecting the form and proportions of the original building, and by the use of complimentary external materials found on local agricultural buildings.