British firm Will Gamble Architects has finalized the construction of Flint Farm, a glass-enclosed extension to a farmhouse located in North Hertfordshire, which connects to a refurbished black barn.
The extension, named for its knapped flint base, replaces inferior structures that had been incrementally added to the Grade II-listed farmhouse situated near the village of Therfield.
Will Gamble Architects crafted this low-profile side addition to accommodate the needs of a young, expanding family while enhancing the home's complex arrangement of entry rooms.
The Flint Farm extension features a kitchen and dining space enclosed by expansive glass panels, creating a modern aesthetic that stands in contrast to the traditional architecture.
Nonetheless, a flint base that aligns with the walls safeguarding the adjacent agricultural barns provides a cohesive connection to the surroundings.
Additionally, the roof, crowned with dark angular steel, is designed with gentle peaks and troughs that echo the black timber-clad gables of the late 16th-century farmhouse.
The project architect, Miles Kelsey, stated, "The addition is unapologetically modern in design, ensuring that both the farmhouse and the adjacent outbuildings are distinctly recognizable."
In addition to optimizing space for the owner, the Flint Farm extension enhances the relationship with the neighboring 18th-century agricultural barn.
The studio noted that the barn had been "roughly" altered in the past, subjected to various unsystematic repairs, and utilized as a boiler room and laundry area.
Will Gamble Architects recognized the inherent potential of the barn structure and undertook a renovation that included the addition of a new entrance and a casual living space, highlighting the original timber framing. A modern picture window was incorporated to provide a view of the garden.
On the exterior, the black timber cladding and clay tiles were taken down, refurbished, and reinstalled to enhance the building's thermal performance. Additionally, the distinctive roof pitch and uneven eaves were meticulously restored to preserve the barn's unique character.
The principal farmhouse, characterized by its pink-painted lime render walls, originates from the late 16th century. However, it has undergone various modifications throughout the years, including the addition of a single-storey extension and a conservatory made of unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) on its northern side.
Will Gamble Architects was initially engaged by the current owner to update the outdated conservatory and construct an extension of comparable dimensions. Nevertheless, the firm advised the client to prioritize the improved integration of the black barn by replacing the existing single-storey extension located on the eastern side.
We successfully persuaded them of the inherent potential of the barn and proposed placing the new extension on the side of the property, thereby replacing the 20th-century structure. This approach fosters a more significant connection between the barn and the main house, integrating it into the primary living areas of the residence, Kelsey stated.
By situating the extension in this manner, the studio was able to create a new double-height entrance to the home, featuring an oak staircase complemented by slender steel spindles.
This entrance is adjacent to an existing reception room in the original farmhouse and provides access to the more private spaces, including a snug, study, children's bedrooms, and the main bedroom.
Will Gamble Architects aimed to design "tactile" interiors for Flint Farm, characterized by textures and patterns that reflect the traditional farmyard. The materials employed include polished concrete, blackened timber, natural oak, and exposed structural components, complemented by accents of marble and terracotta.
Due to the farmhouse's heritage designation, the planning phase was extensive; however, Kelsey noted that it also unveiled several intriguing discoveries, including a historic well that the studio transformed into a patio feature.
"We had an abundance of options for areas that could be uncovered," he remarked.
Will Gamble Architects was established by architect Will Gamble in London in 2018. Among its various residential projects are The Parchment Works, which features a house extension constructed within the remnants of stone walls, and Palm Springs, a residence in London inspired by the principles of desert modernism.
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