The Zinc Barns

Contemporary Barn-Style New Builds in Somerset

Following a successful tender process with Orme Architecture, HM Construction was appointed to construct two bespoke barn-style homes near South Petherton, Somerset, replacing a pair of disused agricultural buildings with contemporary residential properties.

The project involved the demolition of the existing agricultural barns and construction of two individually designed homes, each drawing inspiration from traditional agricultural architecture while incorporating modern building materials and energy-efficient technologies.

One property was designed in the style of a traditional Dutch barn, while the second featured a more contemporary square barn design. Both homes were constructed using steel portal frames surrounded by twin-stud timber framing, with Warmcel cellulose insulation installed throughout the walls and roofs.

Energy efficiency was a key consideration throughout the project, with the building envelopes designed around fabric-first principles to help minimise heat loss and improve thermal performance.

With sufficient surrounding land available, the homeowners opted for ground source heat pumps to provide heating and hot water. Underfloor heating was installed throughout both properties, alongside mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems to support indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

The contemporary appearance of the homes was achieved through full standing seam zinc cladding, complemented by high-performance Idealcombi composite windows. These materials helped create a distinctive architectural finish while supporting the overall thermal performance of the buildings.

HM Construction delivered the development on a complete turnkey basis, managing every stage from the initial demolition and structural construction through to hard landscaping and high-quality interior finishes.

The completed project showcases HM Construction's experience in delivering bespoke new build homes, bringing together contemporary architectural design, modern construction techniques and carefully considered energy-efficient features.