Bankwood Barn

This remarkable project transformed a 17th-century stone barn in the Nottinghamshire countryside into a contemporary family home, carefully balancing heritage, sustainability and modern living.

Designed for the director of a rainwater harvesting company, sustainability was at the heart of the brief. The result is a striking rural home that celebrates the character of the original barn while showcasing innovative low-energy design.

The Brief

Allan Joyce Architects was appointed to convert a magnificent historic stone barn into a spacious family home. Set within open countryside and accessed via a private rural track, the building offered spectacular views but presented a number of design challenges.

One of the key objectives was to introduce natural light throughout the home while respecting the character and historic fabric of the existing barn. Creating bright, welcoming living spaces without compromising the building's heritage became the driving force behind the design.

The Design

Two new floors were carefully inserted within the existing structure to create generous living and bedroom accommodation, while a contemporary extension was built on the footprint of a former building to provide an additional bedroom and split-level snug.

The internal layout revolves around a series of double-height voids, glazed internal screens and open gallery landings, allowing natural daylight to flow deep into the heart of the home. Traditional-style conservation rooflights on the south elevation bring light into the central spaces, while glazed internal partitions share borrowed light throughout the property.

The new extension was constructed using original Skerry Sandstone, painstakingly collected on site by the client, creating a seamless connection between old and new. A fully glazed gable and clerestory glazing frame panoramic views across the surrounding countryside while filling the interior with natural light.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability was fundamental to every aspect of the project.

The barn was thermally upgraded with high levels of insulation while carefully preserving its historic character. A ground source heat pump provides efficient heating and hot water, supported by a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery to improve comfort and energy performance.

The property also showcases the benefits of rainwater harvesting, reflecting the client's expertise and commitment to sustainable living.

The Result

This award-worthy barn conversion demonstrates how historic buildings can be thoughtfully adapted for modern family life without losing their unique character.

By combining sensitive conservation with contemporary architecture and low-energy design, Allan Joyce Architects created a home that is filled with light, connected to its landscape and built for the future while celebrating its past.

The project was featured on Channel 5's Build a New Life in the Country, recognising its innovative approach to sustainable rural living.