The design minds behind Meadow Barn; and how moving there has been life-changing for its new owners

Barr Build Construction Director Chris Noonan worked closely with Keith Durham of KD Design and Cox Clifford Structural Engineering to establish the overall design and structural approach, honing the build specification, materials composition, building and landscape layout. Important to the early planning stages was defining the most effective way to achieve a sustainable structure, which would work in synergy with its surroundings for decades to come.

With the build specification tied down to the last bolt and fixing, cue Kirstie Howard, independent Interior Designer and the creative mind behind the fabulous bespoke finishes and cabinetry at Meadow Barn. Bespoke fixed furnishings, made in collaboration with Barr Joinery and Barr Kitchens, are carefully proportioned to celebrate large open plan spaces and incredible high ceilings. Polished concrete floors in a ‘made for Meadow Barn’ bespoke charcoal grey pantone, specialist textured plaster covering every internal wall and door and Astro Lighting fittings with sophisticated Chris Lewis Smart Home control functions come together to give the barn its unique character and undeniable WOW factor.

The Nordic style Barr Kitchen, along with the rest of the interior cabinetry and fitted furnishings, was designed by Kirstie. Blackened ash and brown stained oak panelled cabinetry is contrasted by marble and polished plaster finishes. Paired with stark white composite stone worktops and a dark polished concrete floor, the overall look is one of subtle, minimalist sophistication.

The en-suite bathroom to each bedroom suite combines strikingly simple Lusso Stone fittings with Maitland and Poate cement tiles, complemented by bespoke metal vanity stands designed by Kirstie and manufactured locally.

The external architectural glazing and internal Crittall-style screens, expertly made to measure by SQ Line, again contribute to the overall appearance of the barn; celebrating the dramatic proportions and wonderful views.

Kistie says “the internal finishes mirror the external timber and plaster cladding on the outside of the barn. The blackened sawn Redwood cladding , which waterfalls down to cover external walls and frames the black metal fenestration, inspired the timber and metal bespoke furnishing designs inside. Likewise the specialist render externally mirror the polished plaster finish within.

Meadow Barn’s owners Steve and Farah are now happily in residence, along with their two sons and much longed for puppy! We asked them what drew them to Meadow Brook and what they are most enjoying about their fabulous new home:

What initially drew you to Hollow Brook?

​We had been looking for a while but have different tastes. Farah prefers old buildings and I like a more modern home. When I saw the Barn I almost didn’t bother to show it to Farah as I felt certain she wouldn’t like it – happily I was wrong. We both loved that it was unique and very modern inside. It was a lifestyle choice to be in the countryside but close to amenities and schools etc. Not only is Meadow Barn unusual, completely unique and finished to the highest of standards but it is also set in idyllic surroundings just ten minutes’ drive from all the facilities we need.

What design feature do you love most about your barn?

There are so many; we love the lightwells into in the bathrooms and the design of the kitchen with its fully glazed end and walk in pantry. Also, the designer wall finishes and the fitted wardrobes in the master bedroom. The standout feature though, has to be the all-glass rear face of the barn; we don’t need TV anymore, we can just watch the changing view in last evening light.

How has moving into Meadow Barn changed your lifestyle?

Our catalyst for moving to the countryside wanting more space and being able to get a dog! During the Covid lockdowns we realised that we craved space and outdoor activities far more than the proximity to a town. Now we feel much closer to a community and have all the space we need. We go to farm shops and have been the enjoying the local summer events like Oakfest, Thame Festival, Waddesdon Chili festival and lots of others. There’s a real sense of pride in the local communities and a vibrancy which suits us far better than the anonymity of the city.