South Downs – rural farm project

Based in the South Downs National Park, adjacent to a Grade II Listed farmhouse, we’ve recently helped complete a project transforming two farm buildings across a shared courtyard. This carefully considered intervention celebrates the rugged character of its agricultural past, creating a practical space for a range of well-being activities focused on young people.

We were appointed to help navigate the technical design process, working closely with the client to translate the initial concept into a more complete design, rooted in the functioning of the working farm. This approach included a strong interest in keeping a light touch, preserving wherever possible but adding sympathetic additions where necessary.

Clunch and brick walls were repaired and at roof level we assisted with details to re-roof, insulate and strengthen, while keeping the original wood ceiling boards visible. Similarly, the original floor purpose may have suited farm animals but needed a thorough look at options that ensured practicality but retained character. Stable doors and making space for nesting birds were more of the features which we helped integrate, to balance the new activities with the authentic farmyard.

The project aims to provide transformational well-being interventions for children, young people and their parents, in the landscape of a working livestock farm, connecting them directly with the practical aspects of this unique location.