A friend of the practice asked us to extend his barn house, enlarging the kitchen and dining spaces so that they can entertain family and friends. Sitting within the curtilage of a grade I listed country house, the space protrudes South into the formal gardens giving uninterrupted views of the landscape.

Unlike many conservatories, the extension has been designed to eliminate the risk of overheating. Glazed elevations allow the low sun of winter to heat the space, whilst a heavy roof and slim brise soleil gives protection from the high sun during summer months. A long roof light at the back of the space helps drop light deeper into the plan of the kitchen.

The planted roof of the extension is formed by a square lattice of Douglas fir timber beams with conceal steel flitch plates that are supported by three cruciform steel columns. Each column has a stainless steel jacket, which slides seamlessly over the top giving a polished finish. The depth of the ceiling allows for recessed lighting and concealed Venetian blinds, providing privacy when needed.