Light & Open Barn-Style Self Build in the Kent Countryside

James’s final plan took inspiration from local rural architecture mixed with some contemporary details. “This involved combining bold forms with traditional materials in order to deliver the clients’ vision,” he explains. The main front and rear elevations showcase extensive triple glazing, complemented by durable composite Hardieboard cladding and low-maintenance concrete roof tiles. These were specifically selected for their longevity, affordability and minimal future upkeep requirements.

The rear elevation faces north west, with views over the garden and countryside through picture windows that feature solar control glazing

“The ragstone was sourced from a local quarry, just two miles away,” says James. “This was used to form the base of the building, along with blockwork, which creates a real feeling of stability, as the walling is almost double the depth of the timber frame above. Ragstone was also used in the window cills and fireplace, adding a sense of locality and sustainability to the design.”

Sustainability was a watchword for the project, which comprises a highly-insulated, prefabricated timber frame. This partners with ultra-efficient triple glazed windows, featuring a blue-tinted solar control coating to avoid overheating in summer, and an insulated concrete ground floor slab. The resulting thermal performance ensures the gas-powered underfloor heating (UFH) operates very efficiently, with the floor slab soaking up heat in the day and releasing it again at night to help deliver a consistent temperature.

A passionate gardener, Julie worked with a landscape designer to create the planting scheme, greenhouse and patio area – transforming a farmer’s field full of mud and weeds into an enjoyable outdoor space

“Everyone who comes into the house comments on how cosy it is,” says Julie. “I was slightly concerned that the UFH wouldn’t keep the whole house warm, so we installed vintage-style radiators upstairs – but we don’t need them; they’re just ornaments!” Heating wasn’t the only factor the couple considered when planning for a more sustainable home. “There’s also rainwater harvesting and a wastewater recycling unit, which are particularly important given the home’s remote location,” says James.

All in the Detail

Planning permission was granted with no issues, but unfortunately the timing coincided with the Covid pandemic, bringing materials shortages and price fluctuations. The Andersons felt this most when trying to procure the large oak elements, such as the porch, roof trusses and staircase, which were constructed by a separate contractor. The oak had to be sourced in France, which added an extra cost, and also caused a delay of almost six weeks. Of course, this change of schedule impacted other parts of this phase.

The ground floor has a completely open-plan layout, allowing light to flow freely throughout the home

“This wasn’t a particularly complicated build, although the transition between the ragstone, cavity and blockwork elements and the timber frame was one aspect that required more thought,” says James. “It was a challenging junction in terms of thermal bridging and how easy it would be to build on site. Fortunately, we were able to consider it at an early stage in the design process – if we hadn’t done this, it could have impacted the project to such a degree that planning amendments may have been required, causing us some lengthy delays.”

Once this detail was resolved, however, everything proceeded in a straightforward fashion. The ground floor is essentially one large open-plan area, with a four-bedroom upper storey, accessed by the central staircase. “This is a house that was designed to be lived in, with bags of character and which the couple were able to put their own mark on,” says James.

Running the Project

The Andersons’ experience in the building trade proved to be invaluable in terms of managing the schedule and budget. Once the plasterboard walls were in place, they effectively took over the completed shell – sourcing the materials and appointing subcontractors to finish off the work. “We did a lot of managing trades and finding suppliers,” says Julie.

“When the shell was up, we procured our own window contractor and all the internal works, which meant we could stay within our £500,000 budget allocation, plus fees,” continues Julie, who was an interior designer for the couple’s former business. “Any overspend was down to me wanting a higher spec.”

The windows are triple glazed and have a tinted coating to mitigate unwanted solar gain in sunny periods

The glazing is an expansive and bold feature, establishing views across gardens and fields, deep into the Kent countryside. It also floods the living spaces with natural light. But this wasn’t only achieved with the swathes of glass used: smaller windows played their part, too, particularly in the kitchen, where they frame views of the landscape, creating a more intimate feel.

The bespoke oak staircase was another key interior feature, with the couple keen to ensure the structure was something really special. Multiple options were considered before hitting on the final galleried design.

The striking staircase and landing area overlooks the open-plan living areas

The house also works well on a practical level, with plenty of storage and utilities. “We have an Old English sheepdog, and he only has to look at mud and he’s covered in it,” says Julie. “So, he has his own bathroom with a waist-height shower on the ground floor. And there is a utility room, too: I like the fact these areas are round the corner from the living-kitchen-diner, so we can keep the living space open and uncluttered.”

Everything in its Right Place

The couple wouldn’t change anything about their brand new home, although Julie admits that the build process had its challenges. “We had a JCT small works design and build contract, and we thought that would be sufficient. My life ran to construction schedules, but the workmen didn’t seem to follow this in the same way,” says Julie.

“My advice would be to choose a builder who is as deadline oriented as you are. Project programmes can slip, and if it’s you who’s assuming all the responsibility of getting everything back on track, it can be stressful – even with the benefit of a contract.”

If they ever build a house again, the pair feel they would want to procure and manage everything themselves, “then we can work to our own deadlines,” says Julie. “But if you’re working or running a business like we were, it’s difficult to find the time.” And what’s it like to live in their self built house? “We love it,” says Julie. “I never thought I’d have a bespoke home. I feel so lucky; and it all came about by chance!”