The Brief
The primary objective for this conversion was to transform the barn into a functional and attractive rental space while preserving its historic and architectural integrity. Key considerations included maintaining the barn’s original features and ensuring the safety and structural stability of the building.
The Solution
To meet the client’s requirements, the conversion included several strategic modifications. The design emphasized the barn’s rustic charm, particularly highlighting a key design feature: the vaulted ceiling in the living area, which accentuates the original frame of the barn. This feature not only added aesthetic value but also created a spacious and airy atmosphere. The project faced notable challenges, including the presence of asbestos, which required careful removal to ensure safety. Additionally, the existing structure of the barn needed to be maintained, which necessitated underpinning to reinforce the foundation.
To enhance the comfort and functionality of the rental property, modern amenities were seamlessly integrated into the design. Underfloor heating was installed throughout the ground floor to provide consistent and efficient warmth. An air source heat pump was also incorporated, contributing to the property’s energy efficiency and sustainability. These additions ensured that the rental space met contemporary living standards while maintaining the barn’s historical essence.
The Result
The barn conversion successfully created a desirable rental property, offering several key benefits. The preservation of original features, combined with the vaulted ceiling design, created a unique and appealing living environment. The project not only provided additional income for the client but also represented a valuable investment, increasing the overall property value. The conversion included four bedrooms on the ground floor, one of which has an en-suite bathroom. Additionally, a master bedroom was created on the mezzanine level, featuring an en-suite bathroom and a dressing room. By addressing the challenges of asbestos removal and structural underpinning, the project ensured the safety and longevity of the barn. The addition of underfloor heating and an air source heat pump enhanced the comfort and energy efficiency of the rental space, resulting in a beautiful and functional property that honours the building’s historical significance.
Kind words
''From the beginning, the wisdom of our decision to ask Early Birds to build our kitchen extension has been consistently reaffirmed. From the outstanding support from the office and management to the dedication and hard work of their team of on-site craftsmen, their conduct has been exemplary. Facing sometimes appalling weather conditions, each task has been skillfully handled with good humour and a smile, leaving us in no doubt that we are in safe hands. We have found all of the staff to be friendly, open, polite, and respectful of the trust placed in them and we will have no hesitation in employing Early Birds again on future projects.''
Mr Pressman
New kitchen extension
"My family used Early Birds for a large project which was started in 2019 and we were very pleased with the way that turned out, so I had no hesitation in asking them to rebuild a retaining wall, which was part of a pit for our swimming pool cover. The old wall had be be totally replaced. Not only was it done quickly but also with great attention to detail by thoroughly nice guys! They had to do a little extra over and above the original quote which wasn't invoiced and this was much appreciated. I will not hesitate to use them again and can completely recommend their services."
Mr Tuke
"Just wanted to say that all the guys on site have been brilliant since it all started. Everyone is so positive which makes the whole thing much more enjoyable than we'd feared! Please pass on our thanks to the team."
Miss Clark & Mr Jardine
REAR EXTENSION
"A massive thank you to all the people who have been involved in our project. Everyone from the office, to the guys on site have been brilliant. We are really impressed with the professionalism of everyone, from the letters to neighbours prior to start of works, early starts, to the clean site at the end of the day. Amazing to see the progress already and the teamwork from everyone."
Mr & Mrs Walsh
REAR EXTENSION
"I can't praise Early Birds enough. I was recommended them through word of mouth and Stu came over and talked everything through and gave us so many great ideas to make it a really special bathroom and kept in budget! He is a Pinterest for builders for ideas. The tradespeople were great, kept us informed all the way through, were very tidy and efficient and always were making sure we were happy with everything. Will be using again!"
Mr Sebastian Wells
New Bathroom Installation
"Early Birds were reliable and responsible builders. They did the work on time and in budget after providing a comprehensive quote. We were kept updated throughout, of problems and progress. Solutions were offered and agreed on before work was carried out. They were hardworking and friendly, onsite 5 or 6 days a week for the main part of the build. They kept the site tidy and kept swearing to a minimum (and Stuart was really great with our young children.) We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Early Birds for any projects, large or small."
Mrs Victoria Barnett
Total house renovation
"We have been impressed with the builders, they have kept us informed about the work and helped us with decisions, i.e. layout of the bathrooms. They have come up with some great ideas along the way and have tried to give us exactly what we wanted. They have tried where possible to shield us from dust and to make it as safe as a building site can be for my children."
Mrs Joanna Brackley
Double Story Extension
"We are thrilled with the finished build! We have been really impressed with the team at Early Birds. We were expecting a very stressful process, however, the team were polite, charming and professional from start to finish. They kept us informed throughout the process, so we always knew what was happening. We can’t speak highly enough about the Early Birds team and would have no hesitation in recommending them for such works. Friends for life!"
Mr & Mrs Thompson
Tenterden
"We are really happy with our extension and would happily recommend Early Birds to everyone! Thanks for all your hard work."
Mrs Gutridge
Ashford
"Very efficient, polite and friendly. Nothing too much trouble and any issues were always addressed in a timely and professional manner. On many occasions, they have liaised directly with other contractors that we employed to sort out issues, which they did not need to do. They went out of their way to ensure that we were really happy in our new home. We changed our minds several times on quite a few things and they took this very well, with no complaints, understanding that we just wanted everything to be as we imagined."
Mrs Mills
New kitchen extension and refurb of entire house
