Contemporary

Stone

Barn

Design Concept

The conversion strategy centred on respecting the barn’s traditional form whilst creating a thoroughly contemporary home. Rather than imposing a new architectural language, the design celebrates the existing winged plan—a characteristic feature created by the stone lean-to structures flanking the main barn. This distinctive configuration provides an engaging spatial arrangement, with the projecting wings creating natural zones for different living functions.

Glazed corners mark the junctions between the original barn and its flanking wings, transforming what were once dark agricultural spaces into light-filled rooms with panoramic views across surrounding fields. This architectural device honours the building’s agricultural origins whilst establishing a clear dialogue between old and new construction.

Material Approach

Material selection balanced heritage sensitivity with practical considerations. The existing stone walls and clay roof tiles were carefully salvaged during demolition and reinstated, maintaining visual continuity with neighbouring farm buildings and reducing waste. This approach proved both economical and environmentally responsible, minimising the carbon footprint associated with new materials.

Contemporary elements intentionally reference Somerset’s agricultural building traditions. Aluminium-framed windows and doors recall the metal-framed glazing found in agricultural buildings throughout the region, whilst standing seam aluminium roofing echoes the corrugated tin roofs characteristic of working farmsteads. The contrast between traditional masonry and modern metalwork creates visual interest whilst remaining contextually appropriate.

Technical Solutions

Creating first-floor bedroom accommodation presented a key technical challenge—how to provide adequate headroom whilst preserving the barn’s external profile. The solution involved inserting a new floor structure that utilises the full internal height of the existing roof without raising the ridgeline. High-level windows and rooflights supplement natural light penetration into the bedrooms, whilst providing essential ventilation.

The building envelope incorporates high-performance insulation throughout walls, roof and floors, transforming what was an uninsulated agricultural structure into a warm, energy-efficient home. Photovoltaic panels mounted on the south-facing roof slope generate renewable electricity and support the hot water heating system, significantly reducing running costs.

Planning Context

The site location just outside Leigh on Mendip’s defined development boundary initially attracted planning objections. The application successfully demonstrated that the conversion represented a natural extension of the village settlement pattern, repurposing an existing structure rather than introducing new development into the countryside. This approach—converting redundant agricultural buildings rather than allowing them to deteriorate—aligns with planning policies encouraging heritage conservation and sustainable reuse of the existing building stock.

Key Features

Distinctive winged plan form retained from original barn layout. Glazed corners creating light-filled transitional spaces between old and new. Salvaged stonework and clay tiles maintaining local vernacular character. Contemporary metalwork referencing agricultural building traditions. First floor bedrooms achieved without altering original roofline. High-performance insulation and photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency.

The Result

Wing Barn demonstrates how sensitive conversion can transform redundant agricultural buildings into comfortable contemporary homes whilst respecting their heritage significance. The building maintains its characteristic presence within the rural landscape, with original materials and proportions preserved. Contemporary interventions—the glazed corners, aluminium fenestration and renewable energy systems—enhance functionality without compromising character, creating a dwelling that serves its occupants’ modern needs whilst honouring its agricultural past.