Hill Common Farm Barn, Attleborough
Converting a dilapidated farm building in the south Norfolk village of Attleborough into a high-spec four bedroom dwelling
However, often being irregular in size or with ageing or dilapidated framework, these projects come with interesting structural challenges.
A perfect example of this is Hill Common Farm Barn, an old farm building located in the south Norfolk village of Attleborough, which was converted into a high spec 4-bedroom dwelling with large open plan living spaces.
As part of the planning process a detailed structural survey was undertaken to ensure the building was suitable for conversion while retaining a number of period features.
All barn conversions are unique and in the case of Hill Common Farm Barn there were some interesting feature frames which we wanted to preserve and display as focal features in bedrooms and communal living spaces.
About the project
Barn conversions present a unique opportunity to transform a former space; injecting new life into a disused building while retaining period charm, features and materials.
Although the timbers were in reasonable condition, no two pieces of timber in the barn were the same size which made structural analysis more complicated.
Similarly, the small number of internal walls made the overall stability of the structure more challenging.
Therefore, we utilised the strength of the existing frames in addition to the new timber panels that were going in. Not only did this ensure the structural longevity of the property, but it reduced the number of new materials used, which helped with the sustainable credentials of the property.
Our specialist senior engineers were involved from planning through to completion, providing the necessary survey, calculations and general consultancy required to support the client through every step of the build.
The build took approximately 12 months, leaving the client with a contemporary open plan property which seamlessly incorporated a host of original features.
If you’re planning to convert a period building or would like advice on a barn conversion, call us on
01603 764448 or visit our Barn Conversions page.