Transformed Dairy Barn Crumbles into Modern Rural Residence in Hampshire's Countryside
In the heart of rural Hampshire, a remarkable transformation has taken place. The once-collapsing barn at Foxhole Barns, nestled on nearly two acres of picturesque countryside, has been metamorphosed into a warm, modern family home by AR Design Studio.
The project at Foxhole Barns masterfully balances the preservation of historic barn elements with bold contemporary design interventions. The original barn's exposed brick walls and massive timber beams have been retained, anchoring the space in its agricultural past while providing authentic rustic character.
Modern industrial touches, such as a custom steel staircase and a corten steel fireplace, serve as sculptural centrepieces, adding a contemporary edge to the conversion. The design also highlights textures and contrasts between brick, timber, steel, and concrete, enhanced by ample natural light from skylights and strategically placed windows.
The living room features a double-height space with a floating mezzanine framed by original timber beams, reinforcing a connection between the old structure and the new living spaces. The outside of the building balances weathered brickwork and natural timber with modern steel accents and glass, rooting the building in its rural context while introducing a contemporary edge.
The spatial planning at Foxhole Barns takes full advantage of the barn's soaring proportions, creating distinct areas for family life. The clients, who left their corporate careers to pursue this project, were deeply hands-on, participating in site clearing and construction management, reflecting their personal investment in the design and build process.
AR Design Studio, the designer of Foxhole Barns, has built its reputation on turning rural sites into award-winning homes. The finished home at Foxhole Barns showcases the clients' personal investment in every detail, making it a testament to their dream and passion.
The project is celebrated for its handling of the tension between old and new, preserving significant historic fabric while creating a warm, modern family home with a clear narrative connecting past and present. The industrial steel elements and sculptural details make the barn conversion both authentic and distinctly contemporary.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2]
[1] Through their partnership with AR Design Studio, the transformation of Foxhole Barns has become an exemplary event in rural interior-design, blending lifestyle elements and home-and-garden charm. The project beautifully balances historic preservation with modern design for a unique living experience.
[2] The clients' personal lifestyle choices, including turning away from corporate careers to build their own home, have integrated seamlessly with the home's design, creating a warm, contemporary family space that is reflective of their dream and passion. Their hands-on involvement in the build process has ensured the authenticity of Foxhole Barns as a home that reflects their individuality and personal investment.
