O’Brien Van der Steen Workshops undertook an extensive programme of conservation and adaptation at a Grade II listed manor house and barn complex in the Blackdown Hills. The estate has origins dating back to the 17th century.
Our approach combined careful repair with considered alteration. The goal was to return the building to good order while enhancing its role as a modern family home. Works to the historic fabric included lime mortar repointing, cob wall repairs, and the removal of inappropriate cement render. Traditional breathable finishes were reinstated. In addition, unsympathetic modern casements were replaced with new joinery to restore architectural coherence.
The project also introduced sensitive internal and external modifications. An outdated conservatory was replaced with a contemporary garden room, designed to strengthen the connection between house, barn, and garden. Furthermore, a subtle link was formed with the adjoining barn, which was partially converted to create guest accommodation with two bedrooms and a living area.
Elsewhere on the site, planning permission was secured for an outdoor swimming pool and a covered loggia. These new elements provided leisure spaces next to the barn. Inside the main house and granary, bathrooms were upgraded, while a utility space and downstairs WC were introduced. At the same time, improved water pressure and renewed infrastructure upgraded the property’s services.
Throughout, the design respected the historic development and architectural significance of the farmstead. We designed all alterations to be light-touch, reversible, and environmentally responsible. By using ecological materials and enhancing thermal performance, we balanced conservation with sustainability.
The Manor House demonstrates our commitment to blending conservation with thoughtful adaptation. In doing so, we ensure that historic buildings remain lived in, valued, and relevant for generations to come.
