In 2019, a devastating fire engulfed South Barn, a cherished 500-year-old Grade II listed structure nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire. The calamity not only erased a piece of architectural history but also left the clients, Mr. and Mrs. Hill, with the daunting task of restoring the barn to its former glory.
South Barn stood as a quintessential example of 16th-century English barn architecture, characterised by its traditional timber-framed structure and locally sourced materials.

Its historical value extended beyond its aesthetic appeal; the barn was a tangible link to the region's agrarian past and a testament to the artisanship of a bygone era.

Recognising this, our initial phase involved comprehensive research, delving into historical records, old photographs, and any surviving architectural plans to gather detailed insights into the barn's original design and construction techniques.

Collaboration with conservation specialists and local historians was pivotal in formulating a restoration plan that adhered to heritage preservation guidelines while ensuring structural integrity. Great care was taken to ensure proper restoration planning.

Entrusted with this monumental responsibility by the Hills, our team embarked on a meticulous journey to authentically reinstate South Barn, with the central goal of honouring all of its historical significance and its original craftsmanship.

Yet while the history was honoured, another key goal was to ensure that the barn became a cosy, comfortable and up to date home for the Hills, with contemporary conveniences as well as an historic heart, where beauty, history, tradition, modernity and function can all blend happily together.

Central to the restoration was the use of materials that matched the original as closely as possible. We sourced green oak timber from sustainable local woodlands, mirroring the wood used five centuries prior.

Traditional craftsmen were engaged to recreate the intricate timber frames, employing time-honoured joinery techniques without modern metal fastenings.

Emulating 16th-century construction practices, the timber frame was assembled using mortise and tenon joints, secured with wooden pegs. Internally, features such as the original oak beams and rustic flooring were meticulously recreated and stone walls were meticulously repointed with lime for authenticity and breathability.

Sleek new features like the beautiful spiral stair were seamlessly incorporated to fit in with the more traditional elements of he build.

Restoring a structure of such antiquity presented unique challenges. One significant hurdle was the lack of detailed architectural records, which we overcame by engaging with local heritage organisations and examining similar period structures for reference.

Another challenge was meeting modern building regulations while preserving historical authenticity. This was addressed by discreetly integrating contemporary safety measures, such as fire-resistant materials and concealed electrical systems, ensuring the barn met current standards without compromising its historical integrity.

The resurrection of South Barn stands as a testament to the dedication to heritage conservation and the seamless blend of historical craftsmanship with modern standards. For Mr. and Mrs. Hill, the restored barn is more than a building; it is a revived legacy, a homage to the artisans of the past, and a preserved piece of history for future generations to cherish.