Sturman & Co. have been shortlisted for Interior Design Scheme – UK Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020.
An 18th Century Barn Conversion set within a beautiful countryside setting requiring extensive modernisation throughout. The clients had dreamed about living at a property like this for many years before getting a rare chance to buy this 18th century barn in 2018. Having been converted for occasional use in the early noughties, the building had thankfully retained an abundance of period features and character, which were to be enhanced as part of the client brief. The layout of the barn meant that the clients weren’t using the space available to its full potential. The barn was also in desperate need of modernisation and the clients had none of the time, appetite or experience required to manage this big project.
Sturman & Co. were approached to manage the whole barn renovation, with a relatively quick turnaround required. The clients remained open minded to Bess’s design proposals, which included fundamental changes to the spatial flow in the barn, removing doors and walls to create a better balance between public and private spaces. The finished space is made for them to stretch out in luxury when they come home from their busy working lives. With bespoke cabinetry throughout and enough space for their unusually large collection of shoes, this barn encourages relaxation, reading and reflection. And they are more than delighted with their new-old home.
The barn has a large central atrium with a mezzanine leading to the first-floor bedrooms. By changing the layout of the ground floor of the property, Sturman & Co. were able to create a grand dining area on the ground floor with bespoke lighting made by Neb Abbott to match the colour palette hanging from the first floor of the property. The final look is hugely impactful, yet at the same time understated – very much in-line with the personality of the client.
There were so many beautiful period features in this property that Sturman & Co. were able to use as a guide to their designs. Each space worked to complement the character of the barn, using colours and textures that would emphasise the heritage of this building. The master bedroom and ensuite is a perfect example of this. An original 5 stone arch leading from the bedroom guides the eye towards the ensuite, with its micro cement walls providing a raw finish, contrasting with the polished look of the shower and tiles, all built into the stone arch.
The barn is set in rural Yorkshire, surrounded by fields and traditional dry-stone walls. The use of natural materials as well as strong earthy tones for fabrics and finishes ensures that the design sits well with the wider environment. Sturman & Co. have brought the outside in, with a cosy, comforting feel throughout.
design et al only work with the world’s leading designers.
If you think you have what it takes to complete in The International Design & Architecture Awards, submit your application by clicking here.