Existing Building Award Highly Commended 2016

Location: Harmondsworth, Middlesex
Architect: Ptolemy Dean Architects
Client/Owner: English Heritage
Structural Engineer: Historic England
Main Contractor & Joinery: Owlsworth IJP
Wood Supplier: Whippletree, Coyle Timber Products
Wood Species: English Oak

Harmondsworth Barn is regarded as an outstanding example of medieval carpentry, and one of the largest surviving medieval barns in England. The oak weather-boarded, oak framed, twelve-bay aisled barn was constructed for Winchester College in 1426/7, a date confirmed by dendrochronological dating of the timbers, and provided the college with an income for at least 150 years. The only acceptable choice of material for its conservation was timber worked using traditional methods. The 600-year-old barn provided heritage carpentry training for one apprentice, whilst the seasoned carpenters were able to sharpen their skills on the complex structural repairs.