Barnfields 2/4

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After qualifying, Adam and his wife Julia began the renovation project. He demolished the whole building apart from one wall, and added an extention and mezzanine floor to double the size of the house.

Planners at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council were generally supportive of the project, although they asked for the changes to the original façade to be subtle , and complement the neighbouring cottages.

The interior of the cottage is essentially open plan. But the design ensures that it doesn’t feel like one large open space.

As Adam puts it, ”I wanted the house to be a flexible collection of spaces which could be opened or closed depending upon the season or what we are using it for. I also wanted to make the most of the natural daylight.“

Thanks to a combination of VELUX roof windows and large glazed doors, the whole south-facing rear of the house – including the living room and conservatory – offers stunning views over the fields and hills of Staffordshire. ”After coming through the front door the first thing you see is straight out onto the landscape. The entire of the rear of the house can also be opened up to the countryside.“ says Adam.

A large insulated wooden door has also been incorporated into the design. During winter nights this can easily slide shut to close off the conservatory, making the kitchen and dining area more intimate.

”The door is intended to replicate an original barn door“ says Julia – acknowledging the rich history of the cottage, which was originally an 18th century hay barn. A similar hint towards the past is noticeable on the exterior, which uses reclaimed stone and tiles from the original cottage.

A stunning feature is the reinforced glass bridge that links the upstairs landing to the master bedroom. This allows a view of the sky from the floor below – again letting even more natural light into the building. As Adam puts it, ”the glass bridge acts like a sort of drawbridge to the private quarters.“

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