St Ewe barn conversion

A contemporary class Q barn conversion in Cornwall

OCR Architecture were approached by a local family who wished to investigate the possibility of developing a redundant barn on a farm they own in St Ewe.

The farm building was a modern portal frame structure over clad with elements of timber and profiled metal sheeting and as such the barn had limited architectural merit however provided an opportunity to develop through a class Q route.

class Q barn conversion contemporary design conrwall

A class Q change of use requires a barn to be:

  • Not listed or within the curtilage of a listed building;
  • Total area is not in the a conservation area, national park or area of outstanding natural beauty;
  • Must have been in agricultural use on the 20th March 2013 or ten years prior to the conversion which ever is greater;
  • Once converted the finished building must not be greater than the original footprint;
  • The building must be able to be converted without any structural interventions i.e. no new footprints, floor slabs or load bearing walls;
  • No new significant openings i.e. windows and doors are permitted only ones to allow conversion.

After our initial assessment OCR Architecture developed a design that worked within the above legislation and produced a package suitable for planning submission. The barn focused around retaining elements of double height space to ensure that the feel of the barn was not lost when it was converted. This double height living space with a large glazed gable framed the views across the Cornish countryside and produced a space for the family to enjoy the rural setting.

The proposed master suite overlooking this double height space continues to create that connection with the landscape that is so important to both us as the designer and our client. The inclusion of an area of sedum roof soon with wildflower meadow will further add to the natural materials insuring that the building is of its place and reflects the quality of design both inside and out.

The vaulted bedroom spaces take advantage again of the original barn structure whilst respecting the need to ensure that we comply with the class Q guidance.

Learn more of our Class Q experience and wider farm diversification.

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