E2 were appointed to provide design consultancy for the conversion of the barn at Birchencliffe Farm from a derelict building to a new 300sqm family home. The completed project combines a contemporary interior with a well insulated, efficient building fabric and a restored exterior which plays homage to the listed buildings heritage and presence in a conservation area.
Birchencliffe Farm is located on the edge of the Peak District National Park in Cheshire. The barn is part of a double courtyard farmstead made up of shippons, cottages and a farmhouse that is typical of the local vernacular. The farm is a grade II listed building, which dates mostly from the 18C, however the barn is believed to be significantly older.
By preserving and revealing the massive stone structure and giant timber truss roof with a double height gallery hall allows light to flood into the centre of the plan from the awkwardly positioned hay loft and cartway openings. This was key to unlocking the full potential of the building. A feature stair provides a strong link between the long wings of the building.
