La Concha was developed as a fluid, three-dimensional plan, inspired by ‘The Nolli plan of Rome' 1748, which defines public spaces and courtyards.
The internal volume of the 15th Century barn forms the heart of the home connecting internal and external shared space.
On the lower level, the kitchen and dining are positioned below a more formal living space on a mezzanine retreat level above.
A more relaxed living/play space is set at the front of the house, opening out to a south-facing courtyard forming
the entrance.
At the rear, the sleeping block is linked to the living space via a glass link entrance and vertical circulation space.
The bedroom block is stepped in across the width of the site to allow a visual connection out into the rear garden from the family space.
The clear and simple design creates a modern, family home from a traditional structure.
A double height living space emphasises the form of the existing barn whilst being central to a whole house ventilation system.
This space can be opened fully to the garden, which allows movement between outside and inside spaces.
RIBA awards jury comment; “To convert a derelict 15th century barn into a contemporary home would be an achievement anywhere, to do so in one of the most rigorously conservative planning environments there is, is all the more remarkable.”