Architect: RJP Architects
Structural Engineer: Paul Molineux Associates
Main Contractor: Anthony Hicks
Joinery Company: Anthony Hicks
Additional Contractors: Dude & Arnette (roofing), Lazenby (flooring)
Ecological Consultant (Bat Surveys): Greenspace Ecological
Lighting Design Consultant: George Sexton Associates
Approved Inspector: London Building Control (South)
Wood Supplier: Orlestone Oak Sawmill, JW Timber Ltd, Winwood Timber, Made in Ply, Mike Wye & Associates
Species: Oak (Europe), Softwood featheredged cladding (UK), Birch Ply (Baltic), Woodfibre (Switzerland), PEFC & FSC certified sources
Location: Willesborough, Ashford
Photography credits: © Rebecca Johnston-Photis and Chris Snook Photography
The barn is one in a group of three Grade II listed buildings which once formed a working farmstead. It is a traditionally constructed timber-framed aisled threshing barn featuring cantilevered half bays to both hip ends – a trait usually associated with earlier barns of medieval origins.
The project consisted of the thorough repair and refurbishment of the barn, which was in poor condition after years of neglect. In addition to significant repairs to the historic oak frame, the fallen porch was reinstated alongside the installation of a heated floor, rebuilt ragstone plinth walls, locally made oak barn doors and a wood fibre insulated, structural, birch plywood lining throughout.
The guiding principle of the project team was to conserve the historical character of the building. In carrying out necessary repairs and upgrading the thermal envelope, the space is now suited to a range of uses, securing the future of the barn for generations to come.
