Tythe Barn, Norton Malreward

Tythe Barn is a grade II listed late eighteenth century barn , semi converted as an art school some 25 years ago . Its sits in the middle of a meadow accessed by a single lane track.

Theinitial conversion was so poor that the brief was to rip out all the interior back to the original structure and convert it out again.

Because daylight was limited almost entirely to the former wagon entrance, with only a small opening to the rear , the client asked that a fully glazed green oak extension be added to one end which would form the main reception area overlooking a step valley and lake below.  The extension was to continue the vernacular feel ofmain barn, a criteria set by both the client and the conservation officer.

The project also addressed the issue of rainwater run off from the adjacent fieldwhich had previously tended to flood the barn on occasions.  This entailed remodelling of the ground levels within an existing walled former farmyardwhich also enabled an improved vehicular access.

The new barn incorporates a bespoke made staircase which gives access to a bridge like landingconnecting two separate first floorareas which straddle the central threshing hall , now the open plan kitchen and dining room.

The attached cow byre now forms a ground floor bedroom and corridor through to the utility room beyond the kitchen.