Upgrading of an existing barn conversion in a grade 2 listed barn

Project Brief

The project involved updating this existing barn conversion from the 20th century jaded barn conversion and turning it into a modern home suitable for today’s living. The project aimed to honour the property’s grade 2 listed status while creating a warmer, more practical, and sustainable home. Planning and Listed Building Consent were obtained for a link extension to provide a new entrance and also included replacing windows and doors, reconfiguring bathrooms, adding a utility room and pantry, installing underfloor heating, and integrating triple sliding doors and smart home systems. A striking pivot door with a metal frame was added as the main design feature, leading into a new vaulted hallway in the extension which links the barn conversion and the existing garage and giving the property a grand entrance and a true sense of arrival. Sustainability was key to the design, with improved insulation, aluminium details, and underfloor heating increasing energy efficiency and overall comfort.

Challenges

The project faced several design and construction challenges common in barn conversions. The new wine cellar by Spiral Wine Cellars is an important feature, and this was placed beneath the extension, requiring careful structural design and detailed planning. This is set down within the floor of the extension with a glazed openable top and a spiral staircase within. Also, site access was limited, with materials needing to pass through a narrow gap between the main house and the garage, which made logistics difficult for the construction team as the spiral rings to form the wine cellar had to be installed at the start of the build.

Solutions

These challenges were successfully addressed through close collaboration among the architects, engineers, contractors, and glazing specialists. The structure below the new extension was designed to safely accommodate the wine cellar, while materials and large glazing units were carefully manoeuvred through the tight access point with thorough planning. Custom glazing from IQ Glass was integrated seamlessly, including large sliding external doors that now fill the home with light and strengthen the connection between inside and outside. The custom pivot door by Urban Front with its metal frame provided both a practical solution and a unique architectural element, creating a sense of drama and arrival. The black patterned detail set between the glazing panes of the fixed glazing adjacent to the new main front door adds privacy and a repeat of this detail was used elsewhere with the home.

Outcome

The finished project has turned this jaded barn conversion into a modern, comfortable, and sustainable family home. The vaulted entrance and pivot door make a strong first impression, while the reconfigured interior and new utility spaces enhance everyday functionality. The new wine cellar adds a tailored feature beneath the extension, and the outdoor space has been levelled to create a spacious area for entertaining and family living with flush floors between inside and outside, smoothly connecting with the interior with steps up to the original main lawn. This has made the existing garden area feel so much more spacious. Inside, improved insulation and underfloor heating ensure comfort throughout the year. The project successfully combines the historic character of the original barn with modern design, creating a home that honours its past while meeting the needs of today. The owners have added their unique style and worked over an extensive period to choose bespoke fittings.