THE HAY BARN

We transformed this disused hay barn in Epping Green, UK, into a new home, preserving its external shell while carefully defining new living spaces within. As with many traditional farm buildings, this barn was designed for utility—once used to store hay, equipment, and livestock shelter. Over time, as agricultural practices evolved, structures like this became redundant, yet they remain rich in character and history with potential for reinvention.

By retrofitting rather than rebuilding, we embraced this simple barn’s inherent character while adapting it for contemporary living. Openings were introduced to bring in light and frame the surrounding landscape. Here we celebrated beauty while reinforcing the connection between inside and out. The generous proportions of agricultural buildings informed our approach, ensuring spaciousness throughout—from the four large bedrooms to the central hall and open-plan kitchen/living area.

The material palette remains intentionally restrained—oak flooring and white walls are complemented by timber panelling and simple, coloured tiles. Externally, blackened timber cladding preserves the barn’s rural identity, while inside, the exposed timber roof structure acts as a reminder of the building’s past. This balance of modern simplicity and traditional references creates a home that is both atmospheric and timeless.

At the heart of the home, the double-height living space embodies the barn’s volumetric generosity. A large picture window, visible from the first-floor master bedroom, and sliding-folding doors to the east capture sweeping views, inviting the changing light and landscape into everyday life.

This transformation speaks to the ongoing story of agricultural buildings—spaces once defined by function, now reimagined to meet new needs while respecting their past.