A Sustainable Barn Conversion
Somerset LevelsA Barn Conversion. While searching for his family home project, Duncan Pyle, lead designer at O2i Design Ltd, discovered dilapidated Grade II listed stone barns near Taunton. The ex-Duchy of Cornwall barns, once a model farm, lay unused for years. Duncan led O2i Design team to create a contemporary home amidst a courtyard of listed barns. They retained the traditional external shell while a modern core, with clean lines and cutting-edge renewable technologies, provides a comfortable living space. Specialist contractors conducted extensive remedial work before commencing internal renovations. A ground-source heat pump, air-source heat pump, ground-mounted solar panels, heavy insulation, energy-efficient hybrid glazing, and underfloor heating enhance energy efficiency. The project was phased into three packages for manageable financial commitments.
The barn, a light, contemporary, open-plan house, retains the essential character and charm of the original building. It was featured in Homebuilding& Renovating Magazine (February 2018 issue) and, in Metro Newspaper‘s property supplement of 19 March 2019. Photos courtesy of ©Nigel Rigden and ©Bill Bradshaw.