Architectural detail for a new detached home

Location:
Shouldham, Norfolk

Date of completion:
May 2017

An existing barn conversion with a proposal to extend the garden land and create a paddock.

Overview

A complete transformation for a neglected, graffitied barn on the outskirts of Shouldham, Norfolk. The result is a contemporary, impressive, striking conversion with extensive living space and four bedrooms, using local materials wherever possible and championing renewable energy technology.

Brief

The existing barn has already been converted into a dwelling and it is proposed to extend the garden land and create a paddock. The proposal will include landscaping and parking to the front with planting to soften the front of the property. The rear will be levelled and seeded with grass.

Solution

Our team of design experts created an architectural gem by:

incorporating many of the original features of the barn
lifting the roofs at the front and rear of the barn for space
using a mix of timber cladding, brickwork, stonework and the introduction of new profiled metal sheet roof cladding

Solution

Our team of design experts created an architectural gem by:

incorporating many of the original features of the barn
lifting the roofs at the front and rear of the barn for space
using a mix of timber cladding, brickwork, stonework and the introduction of new profiled metal sheet roof cladding

The Full Story

For many years, this Shouldham site had been neglected, becoming overgrown and steadily an eyesore. When Mr and Mrs Carter purchased the land there was very little apart from graffitied, dilapidated barns surrounded by agricultural fields. Set apart from the centre of the village, it very much seemed the site had been forgotten about.

When you take into consideration the site prior to its development, the final result – a four-bedroom, luxury home with extensive living spaces, cinema, games room, gym and more – is even more remarkable. The transformation is stark: by simply looking at the contrasting before and after photos it’s clear the difference this build has made to the area.

Designing something remarkable

The primary challenge for this project was introducing a first floor to allow for bedroom space. The decision was made to lift the roofs at the front and rear of the barn. The result was a property that still incorporated as many of the original features of the barn as possible but in a fashion that also ensured the new space catered for modern living.

With a mix of timber cladding, brickwork, stonework and the introduction of new profiled metal sheet roof cladding, the appearance of the property was designed to be sympathetic with the nature of the site whilst still reflecting a more contemporary style.

Completing the landscaping with environmental consideration

Mr and Mrs Carter were also conscious of their impact on the environment when completing this build – hence the decision was made to include renewable energy technology where possible to heat and cool the house. They were also keen to convert the existing barn using materials sourced locally, wherever feasible.

A separate garage was also constructed alongside the property, in a complimentary style.

With careful landscaping to soften the front of the property and the active decision to position the doors and windows to have minimal impact on the street scene, this build is a complete transformation from the previous site – but not at the expense of its setting.

It’s a fantastic addition to the local area, one that champions sustainability and truly showcases the expertise of the many local tradespeople working on the project.