Historical Barn
West Chiltington
Restoring history with modern functionality—bringing a 15th-century barn back to life while seamlessly integrating contemporary features for commercial use
Client:
Private Client
Architect:
RX Architects & Cityzen (M&E)
Contractor:
Manorwood Construction & Myriad Construction
Size:
278m²
Sector:
Heritage / Commercial
Services:
Project Management
Contract Administration
Cost Management
Tags:
Historic Restoration,
Heritage Conservation
Commercial Fit-Out
Overview
Set within a historic private estate dating back to the Domesday Book, this 15th-century timber barn underwent a meticulous restoration to preserve its original charm and character while enhancing its functionality for modern commercial use.
The project required a delicate balance between conservation and modernisation. While maintaining historically accurate materials and craftsmanship, the barn was transformed into a high-spec events space, complete with a commercial kitchen, underfloor heating, and a state-of-the-art sound system.
Our involvement ensured cost certainty, programme control, and commercial clarity, allowing the restoration to be delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
Our role
We were brought in to provide full project management, contract administration, and cost management services, guiding the project from early-stage procurement through to final completion.
Due to the specialist nature of the works, we recommended splitting the contract between two separate contractors—one focused on heritage restoration and the other on the commercial fit-out. This required careful commercial coordination to avoid gaps in scope while ensuring seamless integration of modern interventions within the restored structure.
We also fast-tracked pre-construction to ensure work could begin before bat nesting season, preventing significant programme delays. Throughout construction, we provided stringent contract and cost management, carefully tracking changes and maintaining financial transparency—delivering the project on time and on budget despite the challenges of working through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Challenges and solutions
Historic Sensitivity & Conservation Requirements
Restoring a Grade-listed barn required working with specialist trades, including flint wall restoration, thatching, and timber repair. We managed complex stakeholder engagement, ensuring the works met conservation standards while aligning with the client’s vision.
Dual-Contractor Procurement & Coordination
By splitting the works into heritage restoration and fit-out, we mitigated risk and avoided programme clashes. This approach ensured that delicate historic repairs and modern installations were seamlessly integrated.
Programme Pressures & Bat Conservation
Early ecological constraints meant we needed to commence work before bat nesting season to prevent long delays. By fast-tracking procurement and securing contractor buy-in, we successfully started on schedule.
COVID-19 Impact & Contract Management
Midway through construction, the COVID-19 pandemic caused major uncertainty across the supply chain and workforce. Through strong contract administration and collaborative problem-solving, we ensured fair resolutions for all parties, keeping the project on track.
Outcome
The restored barn is now a stunning heritage space that preserves its medieval character while offering a functional venue for commercial events, tastings, and educational gatherings. The project successfully balanced conservation, craftsmanship, and modern-day usability, creating a lasting asset for the private estate.
This project was completed by members of Cove Consulting during previous employment, bringing valuable experience to our practice.
"I have used Lloyd over the last few years to provide, cost projection and analysis, quantity surveying and contract administration. I have found him to be very professional and diligent in his approach to the projects and I would not hesitate in recommending him for future contracts."
Gary Culpan - General Manager of Estate
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