Award Winning Contemporary Barn-Style Home – North Norfolk
A contemporary barn-inspired home in North Norfolk, blending traditional materials with modern open-plan living to create a light-filled rural dwelling.
Project Overview
This project involves the construction of a new dwelling to replace an existing bungalow in North Norfolk. The design embraces a horizontal, contemporary form inspired by traditional rural barns, ensuring the building sits comfortably within its countryside setting.
The property is arranged over ground and first floor levels and is constructed using locally traditional materials, including split flint and larch boarding. These materials reinforce the connection to the local vernacular while delivering a refined, modern aesthetic.
The ground floor is designed as a fully open-plan environment, with spaces subtly defined into functional areas rather than enclosed rooms, creating a sense of flow, light, and flexibility. The first floor accommodates three generously sized bedrooms, each with its own ensuite, providing privacy and comfort.
Principal living spaces are oriented north-facing to maximise long-distance views across the surrounding landscape, enhancing the relationship between the interior and its rural context.
Design Approach
The architectural approach balances contemporary design with traditional influences. The long, low profile echoes the form of agricultural barns commonly found in the region, while modern detailing and open-plan living arrangements provide a distinctly current interpretation.
The use of natural materials such as flint and timber allows the building to age gracefully and integrate seamlessly into the environment.
Materials & Sustainability
- Locally sourced split flint
- Larch boarding for natural weathering and durability
- Integration of modern eco technologies to enhance energy efficiency
- Designed to be environmentally sympathetic while maintaining a light and spacious internal atmosphere
Awards & Recognition
This North Norfolk property has received significant recognition for its architectural and environmental quality:
- Winner of the Mayor’s Design Awards in both 2013 and 2014
- Winner of the ‘Small Scale Single New Build Properties’ category
- Recipient of the Overall Gold Award
These accolades celebrate the project’s success in combining traditional brick and flint construction with contemporary design principles, sustainable technologies, and a sensitive response to its surroundings.
“Delivering this home was about striking the right balance between tradition and precision—using honest, local materials like flint and timber while achieving the clean lines and openness of a modern build. The result is a house that feels both grounded in its setting and built for contemporary living.” Daniel Grocott, Director
15 years later, we were invited to do the extension on the dwelling. Click below for more details.
