The Dairy

Completed in Summer 2023, The Dairy is a conversion and extension of an old cow byre. Artel31 managed to gain a permission which increased the footprint of the barn by over 100% in order to facilitate the long term usage of the barn as an accessible dwelling for a large family. A significant volume was hidden in the hillside site behind a large earth bund which also formed part of the biodiversification scheme. 

Working in collaboration with Ellendale Environmental and Hither Garden Design, a significant biodiversity and landscaping solution was designed and installed re-using the majority of the original materials on-site including the concrete yard as a giant hibernacula adjacent to the wetlands area, and incorporating exemplary diversification and resilience features such as wetlands, ponds, hibernacula, sunning terraces, and drystone walls, combined with flowers and fruits.

Exterior view of The Dairy showing renovated barn structure. Close-up of natural stone cladding and timber elements
Photography by Charles Emerson
Modern kitchen interior featuring exposed timber trusses, patterned tile flooring, a central island with wood countertop, and large windows bringing in natural light. A glass partition separates the kitchen from a sunlit entry area with indoor plants.
Minimalist staircase with polished concrete risers and wooden treads, accompanied by a light wood handrail against a pale wall.
Close-up view of an exposed timber roof truss set against clean white vaulted ceilings, showcasing the contrast between rustic wood and modern architecture.
A modern wood-burning stove with a tall black chimney pipe installed against a pale green wall. A basket filled with firewood sits on the left side, next to vertical wooden slats separating the stove area from a window.
View through a tall, narrow window with a triangular transom, showing a gravel path and paved area leading to a green field with shrubs and trees under an overcast sky. The window is set in smooth white interior walls.
Indoor space with a black-framed glass partition wall, revealing a room with green wooden paneling, skylights, and large potted plants in blue and white ceramic pots. A patterned rug lies in front of the partition, adding texture to the modern, plant-filled interior.

Sustainable Measures

Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR)

Photovoltaic panels

Natural sustainable materials and reused materials

Environmental construction policy to minimise chemical use and construction waste

Passive solar gain regulation/orientation studies undertaken during design

Electric car charging and allocated space for future battery installation

High insulation levels (low U and Y values)

Home working space

Rain Water Harvesting

Biodiverse landscaping

Chippenham, North Wiltshire