Rural Barn Conversion Meadow Barn

Set within the rural Oxfordshire countryside, Meadow Barn is the sensitive conversion and extension of a former stable block located within a traditional farmstead courtyard. The existing stone barn, characterised by rubble walls, clay tiles and simple agricultural detailing, forms part of a cohesive group of historic outbuildings. The design carefully retains this relationship, preserving the courtyard elevation and reinforcing the building’s role within the wider composition.

The scheme supports multi-generational living, enabling the current owners to remain on the site while the main farmhouse moves into the custodianship of the next generation. A modest single-storey extension provides accessible, future-proofed accommodation, alongside the replacement and slight raising of the roof to improve performance and usability. An ‘upside-down’ layout positions bedrooms at ground level, with living spaces above to maximise views across new orchard planting and meadow landscape.

Materially, the proposal draws on the existing agricultural palette, incorporating reclaimed brick detailing, timber elements and a restrained, complementary finish. Sustainability is embedded throughout, with a high-performance fabric and the integration of low-carbon technologies, resulting in a considered and contextually responsive evolution of the original barn.