Having originally been in agricultural use for over 250 years, and becoming derelict in the 1990s, Artemis Barn required a lot of attention, planning and design to restore it to its former glory by Chiles Evans + Care Architects.

Located in the High Peak District of Derbyshire, one of the most beautiful and protected areas in the UK, it was proposed that the remaining stone barn be converted into an innovative family home. Due to its location and age, protecting the historic integrity of the property was of paramount importance; a goal The Rooflight Co were able to support through the use of six linked Conservation Rooflights.

Chiles Evans + Care were mindful of the need to treasure the existing elements and character of the building, whilst also creating a modern and imaginative space within. The small quirky spaces and large loft areas needed careful consideration with regards to lighting. Unusual characteristics like the tiny existing ‘arrow-slit’ ventilation openings were re-used, adding widely chamfered internal reveals to amplify daylight brought into the interior.

Fun spaces such as the ‘pod’ structure, which doubles as a home cinema, were added, whilst retaining fire-damaged old timber trusses as an homage to the wonderful story of the building. The agricultural nature and past usage of the building is also respected and preserved in the sympathetic use of materials, with steel left exposed and timber unsawn. The rough stone external walls left bare contrast with the smooth modern concrete used internally, creating the perfect juxtaposition of new and old.

The architects’ design incorporated heritage style Conservation Rooflights to create light airy spaces, without compromising the integrity of the original barn.

Having previously worked together on another project with our Neo range of rooflights, architect Howard Evans of Chiles Evans + Care was already familiar with the quality and attention to detail delivered by The Rooflight Co’s handcrafted roof window collections. The Conservation Rooflight was specified for its authentic aesthetic and modern performance, meeting the stringent requirements of the planning officers.

The Rooflight Co’s Conservation Rooflights were the ideal choice for this traditionally built stone barn, with their perfect combination of high performance and traditional design. Retaining the character of heritage buildings while meeting modern thermal efficiency standards, these rooflights bring improved ventilation and fill the rooms with the warm embrace of natural light.

Sitting within black metal frames at triple-height, a total of two linked rooflights measuring 2475mm x 1028mm and one measuring 1368mm x 1028mm were specified for the scheme. Alongside these, the architect also specified three CR09 rooflights measuring 717mm x 1028mm.

The Conservation Rooflight range is conformity marked in accordance with EN 14351-1 and is suitable for historic and contemporary properties alike, at roof pitches between 17.5° and 65°.

Positioned stylishly between white plasterboard, exposed rough beams and stonework, it is clear to see how Artemis Barn won a RIBA East Midlands Award 2017 and a RIBA East Midlands Conservation Award 2017.

Awards

• RIBA East Midlands Award 2017
• RIBA East Midlands Conservation Award 2017