North Acre: A Stunning Barn Conversion

North Acre, a magnificent five-bedroom barn conversion, commands breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside near Shaftesbury in Dorset's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Gowercroft products used:

• Peveril Lift and Slide Doors
• Kedleston Tilt and Turn Windows
• Melbourne Doors
• Hardwick Casement Windows
• Accoya®

Vanessa and Bruce Jones, longing to build their dream home in the countryside, were thrilled when they discovered a spacious plot with an abandoned steel-framed agricultural building.

The 400-square-meter south-facing structure, once a cattle shed, held immense potential for their vision of a modern, open-plan, eco-friendly family home.

"North Acre's location captivated us instantly. We realised that, with the right design, this industrial-looking farm building could be transformed into a light-filled, airy sanctuary for our family," shared Vanessa Jones.

Uniquely Integrated Design

Campbell Jackson Architects approached the conversion with a focus on celebrating the structure's grand scale, shape, and utilitarian simplicity.

"Our philosophy is to create buildings that are harmonious and appropriate for their surroundings, revealing the distinctive qualities of each project. In this case, we aimed to maintain the barn's unassuming presence within the rural landscape while welcoming the stunning views into its light-filled interior spaces," explained Jamie Campbell.

The original concrete hardstanding served as the footprint for the new design, with the core steel framework supporting a metal-clad roof. The use of pre-cast concrete panels at lower levels and extensive Siberian larch cladding contribute to a contemporary and understated aesthetic.

Thoughtfully Framed Views

The south-facing elevation of the design purposefully responds to the panoramic views. Landscape Tilt and Turn windows and Lift and Slide doors from Gowercroft Joinery were carefully incorporated, allowing for perfectly framed vistas.

"We sought high-quality traditional timber windows and doors that would seamlessly blend with the concrete lintels and the Siberian larch cladding. Over time, the cladding will naturally weather from its original blond colour to a sun-bleached patina," shared Jamie.

Gowercroft's windows and doors, renowned for their silver-grey translucent finish, were chosen for their contemporary aesthetic. The Accoya® timber's grain pattern shines through, complementing the desired tone.

Throughout the project, Gowercroft supplied 22 Accoya® tilt and turn windows and four doors, all finished with their exclusive semi-transparent grey coating. These windows and doors enhance the flow between interior living spaces and offer captivating views of an exquisite indoor winter garden.

The Perfect Match

"We are absolutely thrilled with our new home. Campbell Jackson Architects' remarkable design has brought our original vision to life in ways beyond our imagination. The quality and beauty of the timber windows and doors from Gowercroft complete the picture," expressed Vanessa Jones.

The Gowercroft team went above and beyond, ensuring that every detail, both technical and aesthetic, was meticulously considered to ensure their windows and doors were the perfect match for the new home. The specially developed micro-porous protective finish from Italy guarantees exceptional performance and virtually maintenance-free enjoyment.

North Acre stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between Campbell Jackson Architects and Gowercroft, where architectural excellence and exquisite craftsmanship converge.