Gatcombe Farm, Somerset

This three bedroom barn conversion project was constructed by Mount Everest Construction and completed in 2023. Were appointed as project architects and remained on board throughout the construction process from concept to detailed design and technical support during the construction of the project.

Planning and Listed building challenges

During the initial design process we overcame various planning and heritage challenges. The barn is located close to the cutrilage of a listed building and on the site of a scheduled monument, and so required careful approach to the external appearance, and minimising excavation on the site. We were able to demonstate an acceptable scheme to the council which involved the retention of a large part of the existing structure including original timber trusses which were cleaned and exposed on the interior of the dwelling.

We incorporated a split level design to strike a balance between the quality of the interior spaces and to ensure all the desired rooms are realised. The split level concept ensures the spaces we occupy for much of the day such as the lounge, kitchen, dining room, and office are light, airy, and comfortable. Spaces we occupy less frequently such as the bedrooms and bathrooms are cosy and intimate whilst maintaining a high quality feel. The split floor levels also provide a better connection between the primary living spaces and the upper and lower gardens compared to what otherwise would have been achieved had we pursued a traditional two-storey proposal.