Quaker Barns

The approach to the project was organic and flexible. Minimal drawings, aside from floor plans, were produced to allow the conversion to adapt to changing circumstances. Each detail emerged as needed, making the most of available materials and adapting to the challenges as they arose.

Hall Barn, a two-storey, oak framed cart shed with a grain storage loft, underwent a remarkable evolution. The north facing open bays were enclosed, while the south facing brick walls were opened up to frame the stunning views. Straw bales, treated against insect infestation, were used to infill the bays. These were installed in panels between the oak posts and secured with steel rods, creating a natural yet durable structure.

The barns exude a minimalist elegance, with clean lines and few openings that preserve their traditional barn qualities, so often lost in conversions. The roofs are crowned with glazed pantiles, a characteristic of Norfolk barns. Windows, inspired by the design of Landrover sliding windows, are set within steel tracks, merging form and function beautifully.

Even with non-standard alignments, the barns were designed to embrace imperfections, The use of available materials, tools and craftmanship was woven into every element of the design. The result is Quaker and Hall Barns: contemporary sanctuaries where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.