Mayfield Barn by HollandGreen Architecture

Located in Buckinghamshire, Mayfield Barn is a striking example of transforming a tired, steel and concrete-framed Dutch barn into a modern, energy-efficient family home—while honoring the building’s original agricultural heritage. This project was developed under Class Q barn conversion regulations, requiring the retention of much of the original structure and character, which remains proudly evident throughout the house.

Sustainability at Its Core

From the outset, the clients’ primary goal was to create a home with the lowest possible carbon footprint. As demolition of the existing concrete and steel frame was not permitted, every step of the design and build process focused on maximizing environmental efficiency:

• The barn’s south-facing glazed facade is triple-glazed and features a strategically designed canopy that provides summer shading while allowing valuable solar gain during winter months.

• By reusing the original concrete base and metal frame, the project significantly reduced the need for new materials and minimized transportation-related emissions and construction waste.

• The home incorporates a bio-efficient waste system, a Scandinavian-made air source heat pump by NIBE, and an EV charging point, supporting a low-carbon lifestyle.

• Innovative insulation techniques and careful sealing were applied to tackle the thermal challenges posed by the original steel and concrete structure, eliminating cold bridges for maximum energy efficiency.

Materials and Design

Sustainability did not come at the expense of aesthetics or quality. Mayfield Barn features:

• Black aluminium standing seam cladding (Vieo System by Euroclad), offering a sleek, durable facade that is 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan.

• Thermo-wood timber cladding, sourced from responsibly managed forests, adding natural warmth and texture.

• High-performance, large-format triple-glazed aluminium windows and doors (bespoke by SQ Line), enhancing thermal performance while flooding interiors with natural light.

• A polished concrete floor (Lazenby) that serves as thermal mass, naturally regulating indoor temperatures for both heating and cooling.

Thoughtful Interiors

The interior furniture and fittings were custom-designed and crafted by Barr Joinery and Barr Kitchens, using ultra-low formaldehyde MDF and high-grade plywood, chosen to reduce manufacturing greenhouse gas emissions without compromising on finish or durability. The bespoke kitchen by Barr Kitchens complements the home’s sustainable ethos with careful material selection and thoughtful design.

Recognition

Mayfield Barn’s innovative and sustainable design approach was honored with the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Award for design and build excellence, celebrating the successful fusion of heritage conservation with modern eco-conscious living

Mayfield Barn stands as a testament to how barn conversions can achieve outstanding sustainability goals while respecting and celebrating their historic roots—offering a contemporary family home that’s both environmentally responsible and architecturally compelling.

Photography: Courtesy Of HollandGreen Architecture