Dutch Barn Conversion in Herefordshire – Kimbolton
This Dutch barn conversion in Herefordshire represents a pivotal project at Thomas Studio – a successful Dutch barn conversion that established our reputation as a leading specialist in this field. Architect Garry Thomas working initially as Design Director at RRA Architects and later completing the project through Thomas Studio, this conversion of an open-sided Dutch barn near Kimbolton Herefordshire showcased the potential for heritage agricultural buildings to be transformed into exceptional residential spaces.
The Challenge
The existing Dutch barn conversion in Herefordshire, constructed in the early 20th century, had become unsuitable for modern farming operations but held significant agricultural heritage value as an early example of a Dale’s of Leominster Dutch barn. The farmer’s family sought to create accommodation for their son while developing a farm diversification project through holiday letting accommodation. The challenge was to respect the building’s heritage while creating contemporary living spaces that would meet modern living standards and planning requirements.
Our Innovative Approach
Heritage-Led Design Philosophy: Our approach centered on inserting a lightweight timber frame structure within the existing Dutch barn framework, preserving the essential character while creating high-quality living accommodation.
Dual-Purpose Design: The design cleverly accommodated both a family dwelling and holiday letting unit, supporting the farm’s diversification strategy while providing flexible accommodation for the growing family.
Material Strategy: We combined traditional timber cladding with weathered Corten steel panels to evoke the agricultural heritage while introducing contemporary sustainable construction methods.
Key Design Features
- Structural Innovation: Lightweight timber frame inserted within the existing iron framework, demonstrating the building’s capability for conversion without substantial reconstruction
- Sustainable Technologies: Ground source heat pump, rainwater harvesting, and high-performance insulation achieving Energy Performance Certificate ‘A’ rating
- Landscape Integration: Careful positioning of openings and landscape screening to integrate the development into the countryside setting
- Agricultural Heritage: Retention of the distinctive hooped roof form and revelation of the iron frame as an integral part of the design
Planning Success and Delivery
Planning permission was successfully secured at Herefordshire Council, with the application demonstrating compliance with policies for rural building re-use and countryside development. The project addressed key planning considerations including highway safety, ecology, landscape impact, and sustainable design.
Following my transition from RRA Architects to founding Thomas Studio, we continued working with the clients to deliver the project through to completion, ensuring the design vision was fully realised and the family’s needs were met.
Legacy and Impact
This Herefordshire Dutch barn conversion became the foundation of Thomas Studio’s specialised practice in heritage barn conversions. The project’s success led to numerous subsequent commissions and established the expertise that we continue to develop through Thomas Studio. The innovative approach to balancing heritage preservation with contemporary living has influenced our methodology for all subsequent rural conversions.
The project demonstrates how redundant agricultural buildings can be given new life while contributing to rural housing needs and supporting farm diversification – principles that continue to guide our work today.
Project Details:
- Location: Kimbolton, Herefordshire
- Planning Authority: Herefordshire Council
- Executive Architect: Thomas Studio
- Planning Permission: Granted February 2016
- Project Type: Rural conversion with farm diversification
Thomas Studio specialises in heritage Dutch barn conversions and rural developments for discerning clients. Contact us to discuss how we can unlock the potential of your agricultural buildings through sensitive conversion and innovative design.
