CE+CA’s work at Orchard Barn makes limited interventions to restore and celebrate a derelict agricultural building.
The project sought to restore this gateway building and bring new purpose to its rich history. After standing empty for many years, Orchard Barn was at risk of being lost; the roof had partially collapsed, and major structural deterioration had developed to an external wall. The brief was to bring the building back into use as a workshop, whilst preserving the existing fabric wherever possible. Our client wanted to create a new use for the building that would enhance village life, both through the physical rescue of the building but as a place to bring the community together to celebrate key events such as the harvest of fruit from the adjacent orchard.
The external appearance has been carefully restored, giving little evidence of the changes within. Sympathetic and restrained interventions mean that much of the character is retained and enhanced. The failing orchard wall has been entirely rebuilt incorporating an oversized door that turns the building to face the orchard. Detailing has been kept simple in order to accentuate the mass and craftsmanship of the new insertions. This glazed door permits light to flood the space, reorientating the spaces and creating a visual connection between the house and the barn. In front of the new entrance lies a small terraced area, providing a space that captures the warm evening light filtering through the trees. Elsewhere, existing openings have been retained, with new timber framed sash windows and oak doors provided.
A small service door provides access to a low and naturally ventilated ‘apple’ store which in turn leads through a small corridor space to reveal the larger double height volume of the barn. This space is designed to have a multitude of functions, from painter’s studio to village festival. A hidden stair leads to a bridge and gallery that overlook the main space.
Sympathetic and restrained interventions mean that much of the character is retained and enhanced
Internally, the new accommodation is a mixture of storage and flexible private studio / workshop space, transforming it into a useful annex to the adjacent dwelling. The nature of the building permits much of the existing stone to remain exposed internally. This is set against a palette of timber and stone reclaimed from the barn itself. The material choice has been fundamental throughout. The stone floor has been relaid, showing marks from its life as store, garage and even abattoir. The timber first floor is a rare structural floor board with a double grooved detail that has been exposed where cut. The massive beams have been rescued and reused. New materials have been distinctly detailed in a contemporary manner, from exposed steelwork to new ash handrails.
New materials provide a contemporary contrast, including timber and steel trusses, unlaquered brassware and raw copper light fittings.
Orchard Barn won an RIBA Design Award and the Regional Small Project of the Year Award at the 2018 RIBA East Midlands Awards.
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