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Contemporary Barn Conversion in the South Downs

Work is in progress on site of a contemporary interpretation of the barn conversion.  The site is nestled in the South Downs National Park with breathtaking long distance views across the downs. The existing buildings under consideration for this client comprised an eighteenth century stone built store house with an adjoining nineteenth century stable and open sided log store. The assembly of outbuildings being converted are built in the local stone with brick dressing and red clay tiles.

Modern or contemporary barn conversionClient Requirements

The client’s requirements were for the eighteenth century store building to be remodelled as a general purpose studio, with flexible lighting and facilities for exhibiting a range of different types of work. The stable is to be recast as a multipurpose workshop equipped with a sophisticated range of machine tools.

Architectural Scheme

The architectural scheme exploits the inherent tensions between the calm contemplative order of the studio and the brisk, functional expediency of the workshop. Two elements in particular link the spaces; a double aspect log burning stove (fed from the workshop side) and a purpose made, metal framed, part glazed door which also mediates the change in level of the two spaces. The scheme is being built by Nicholls Countryside Construction and evidences their fine control of the best of British craftsmanship.

Conversion of historic buildingsOptimising the distant views and simplifying the spatial reading,a wall of glass has been created on the west facing facade of the studio. Drawing natural light into the studio this solution creates an elegant, contemporary space to aid the client’s calm contemplation. Immediate views from the studio will look out across the lawn towards the listed farmhouse. Chris Moss Garden Designs has been invited to generate a range of proposals for the gardens and setting for the project. This important outside element opens up the wider site to alfresco entertaining options which celebrate the glorious setting of the site in the South Downs National Park.

Project Expectations

The project is due to complete in the Autumn of 2016, James Wells comments

“It’s refreshing to work once again with Richard Nicholls and his team of excellent craftsmen, we look forward to another successful outcome.”

For the client this space promises to be a delightful escape to complement the busy family household with a haven of peace and tranquility in this graceful architectural oeuvre.

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