Black House Farm

Project Info

Located in the South Downs National Park, this historic Hampshire farm complex has been elegantly reconstructed and reimagined through the introduction of a contemporary timber element, unifying the carefully restored agricultural buildings.

This project involved the repair of the 17th century, Grade-II listed yeoman’s farmhouse, and the reconstruction of the traditional oak-framed 19th century threshing barn, before consolidating the farmstead by placing a new structure between the buildings. The low-level form of this new element extends and links the historic buildings without detracting from the characterful silhouettes of their pitched roofs.

Consisting of modular coffers formed in UK-grown Douglas fir, the new portion of the house achieves generously clear spans, suitable for open-plan living. Timber finishes and structural components have been oiled, creating rich, naturally toned interiors. Externally, vertical cladding to the reconstructed barn and new build are treated with natural oil black stain, giving a homogeneity to the ensemble, and a clear distinction from the farmhouse.

Principles of reuse and reinstatement have shaped the project from the repurposing of buildings to salvaging structural timber to designing for future adaptation.