Manor Barn
By: Louise Crossman Architects
Set in the rolling countryside of North Devon with far reaching views, this extensive barn conversion was originally a series of dilapidated barns, part of a larger farm complex on the edge of the village, and the barns have now been converted into a beautiful luxury home.
We were first approached by our client in 2008 and, following extensive pre-planning application consultation with both the Local Authority, and with English Heritage due to the proximity of a Grade 1 listed church, we finally achieved planning approval in 2010. The scheme was picked up again in 2019 and fortunately the planning approval remained extant, as part of the works had been commenced in 2010, so we did not need to go round that loop again.
The design intent was to blend the traditional with the contemporary, and to create a stylish and spacious home. By retaining as much of the original stone walling as possible, and largely following the arrangement of the original barns as they stepped down through the sloping surrounding ground, the conversion retained its rural feel while offering clean, deceptively pared back living spaces, inside and out. Externally, the ad hoc extensions were removed, and block infill replaced with local matching masonry, with the existing openings filled with generous glazing to offer framed and focused views.
Moving through the house offers engagement with views or spaces inside and out, as well as a sense of both intimacy and spaciousness. A light, contemporary home has been created, where the flowing arrangement gives surprises and delights. Attention to detail and following a ‘fabric first’ approach of high insulation levels and airtightness has delivered a highly energy efficient home.
The scheme was finally competed in 2023 and could not have been achieved without the understanding of traditional building and craft to bring out the rugged character and materials of rural Devon, whilst placing these in the context of more modern design.
