Barn conversions are typically traditional styled projects but adding a modern touch can really enhance the look when combining modern and traditional in the right way. Traditional features should be maintained like timber trusses, old brickwork and sometimes even the rustic metal frame work or other authentic features. Adding a glazed extension or large glazed windows or a complete contrast of materials can really complement each other.
Before you embark on your project you should check a number of aspects before investing into the project
- Check if planning permission is required or if there are any conditions to the consent or your approval. Barns are quite unique and the planners like it this way. Running your checks first can save a lot of time and money if the requirements are not followed.
- Get a survey to ensure the barn is structurally sound. If the barn is not structurally sound this does not mean the project cannot go ahead but there may be more cost implications that you were unaware of.
- Barns are well known for the vast open spaces with vaulted ceilings and timber trusses. Although these are great features to keep, if your main objective is financial gain it might be worth exploring the idea of more first floor space with more bedrooms however, do not overcrowd the space and lose the authenticity that potential buyers would be looking for in a barn conversion.
- Check for services to the barn. Most barns might have running water but quite often this will be taken from the main dwelling but the barn will need its own water supply. Quite often barns have two means of water supply. Mains water where the pressure can be low as barns are often in rural areas. To enhance pressure, consider a bore hole where the water can be pumped from below the ground. This is perfectly good drinking water once filtered but as it is pumped and there is the risk of the pump breaking down you should also keep a mains water supply as back up. Also due to the rural areas of barns conventional gas heating is not always an option. Air or ground source heat pumps or oil boilers are options for heating. Do your homework to decide which option will best suit your barn conversion and the installation costs or re-filling oil costs.
- Sewers can also be a stumbling block to barn conversions. If your barn is located far away from the connection of public sewers you may need a septic tank or a sewage treatment plant. These are the main two methods of sewage disposal but there are other methods that can be explored. Investigate thoroughly and choose the option that best suits your barn.
- Barns can be located in the middle of nowhere so you may need to consider a driveway, that could be very long and costly.
- Barns can be long and narrow, consider adding an extension to give the barn more depth and space. This will also increase the resale value.
- Make sure to choose the correct builder for the job. Not all builders have experience in Barn conversions which could result in a catastrophe if the finish does not compliment the Barn.
Why not contact Caudle Developments Ltd today and we can help you with an estimate. CDL have experience in all sorts of projects including barn conversions.
