Hill Farm Barn, Norwich, Norfolk

“An industrial-inspired barn conversion with verdant views across the Norfolk countryside”

Hill Farm Barn is a conversion of a 1960s Atcost barn, that combines a considered palette of concrete, metal and timber with exquisitely executed blockwork and carefully crafted joinery. An inverted layout makes the most of natural light and far-reaching views across the Norfolk countryside, while a series of spacious living and sleeping areas unravel to a self-contained annexe.

The Tour

The house’s agricultural character remains legible in its distinctive frontage, with neat American red cedar cladding and a standing-seam zinc roof.

Entry is to a light-filled, double-height hallway that establishes the architectural language of the house. Exposed blockwork meets full-height glazing, while a striking Holophane chandelier creates a sculptural focal point overhead.

Upstairs, an open-plan kitchen-living-dining room occupies the first floor, where its upside-down configuration makes the most of the natural light and the surrounding landscape. Rooflights illuminate the space, while a Juliet balcony frames far-reaching views across the fields, perfectly positioned for south-west-facing sunsets. Designed by Kitchenology, the kitchen combines Leicht cabinetry and Miele appliances with a downdraft hob. Sprayed concrete units and a substantial island are paired with Dekton worktops and a splashback.

Industrial columns and exposed concrete elements establish a strong architectural presence, balanced by engineered oak flooring by Ted Todd. Throughout the house, fixtures and fittings have been carefully selected to complement the house’s material palette. The exposed structure remains visible throughout, lending the home a generous sense of volume.

A study benefits from rooflights and views across the bucolic setting, while a separate snug offers a quieter living area. A WC completes the arrangement.

Downstairs, the bedrooms are bright and generously proportioned, with white-painted V-groove boarding to the walls and ceiling providing a textural contrast to the exposed blockwork. The principal bedroom has two generous walk-in wardrobes, and an en suite bathroom with an Albion bath, a large walk-in shower, decorated with patterned large-format tiles and a palette of blue hues. The second bedroom has access to a Jack-and-Jill en suite bathroom. Two further well-proportioned rooms are currently arranged as an office and a gym. Both with underfloor heating, they offer flexibility to be reconfigured as additional bedrooms.

Elsewhere, a separate utility room, fitted with units by Kitchenology, provides practical back-door access to the carport. There is also a dedicated plant room.

An additional one-bedroom, self-contained annexe completes the ground floor. With a generous en suite bathroom and its own kitchen and living space, it offers an independent setting for guests or home-working.

Outdoor Space

A single border wraps the house, with lawns that provide scope for further herbaceous planting and an outdoor dining space. Beyond the immediate grounds, the surrounding countryside provides verdant views across open fields.

A large double carport has electric doors, three-phase electricity and storage space for bicycles and other equipment. An additional garage with electirc roller doors provides useful storage.

The Area

Hill Farm Barn is nestled in the south Norfolk countryside, with far-reaching views over the surrounding rural and agricultural landscapes. Mundham is a small village that combines the charm of rural living with the convenience of modern amenities, whilst neighbouring Seething and Loddon provide a range of amenities, independent shops, and cafes. Diss is also within easy reach. The area is particularly well served for scenic countryside walks, the Broads National Park, and the Norfolk coastline.

The medieval city of Norwich is just 20 minutes away by car. The city also holds the title of UNESCO City of Literature, and offers a diverse range of cultural, dining and shopping opportunities. The ancient Lanes in the city centre are filled with independent eateries and shops, including Michelin-recommended Benedict’s restaurant and the wonderful St Gregory’s Antiques and Collectables. The city’s 928-year-old cathedral is another must-visit, and for art aficionados, the Sainsbury Art Centre on the university campus has an excellent programme of exhibitions.

Regular rail services run from Norwich to London Liverpool Street in under two hours.