Workshop
Amongst existing and working farm buildings, this disused cow shed has been converted into a sustainable workshop. Positioned above the local flood plain, the site is surrounded by wetlands with a rich biodiversity supporting a variety of plant and animal species. Sustainability was particularly important on this project.
With this criteria in mind, the project aimed to retain as much of the original materials as possible. Construction materials were, where possible re-used or locally sourced. New products were selected for their green and environmental credentials.
The barn is designed to have a minimal environmental impact, using highly insulated glazing (IQ Glass), recycled materials and a reed bed water treatment system to achieve this. The scheme uses local materials such as blue lias stone, hydraulic lime render and mortar, oak, as well as high-tech glazing, blended with modern, innovative, green materials such as high grade, self finished Oriented Strand Board (OSB) tongue & groove. The internal cladding of OSB boards was chosen specifically because it is FSC certified, manufactured from sustainable fast-growing renewable timbers, energy-efficient and carbon negative. The OSB was treated with water-based transparent flame retardant to retain the materials colour and feel. Where ever possible materials were re-used and recycled. The kitchen units are made entirely of recycled timber boards, whilst the fittings in the WC were recycled from another property.
In order to achieve the sustainable aims, the building has high levels of thermal performance through insulation and glazing, air tightness, as well as incorporating energy efficient fittings and appliances. High levels of insulation, including sheep’s wool were used in the roof and the large areas of south facing glazing allowing some solar gain. The front of the building is fitted with oak shutters which control solar gain by shading the space when needed. The shutters can slide to either end of the building, either covering or revealing the building. The large glazing panels slide alongside them, leaving the shutters and windows stacked at either end when the workshop needs to be kept open. This means that the workshop can be completely shaded or opened to the outside space whenever required. Having significantly reduced energy losses, the project also integrated a reed bed water disposal system.
During the build, waste was kept to a minimum with the re-use of this dilapidated building, recycled roof tiles and stones on site, renewable timber and OSB, using low grade wood chips for high quality wall linings. Clean up of the site was also taken into consideration by ensuring recycled/recyclable materials were used and the site was cleared of rubble and debris, building stones recovered and waste used in the infill of the disused slurry pit.
The open countryside location means that external air quality is high. Great care was taken to specify finishes that would not “off gas”, such as the water-based fire protection coatings required for the OSB wall and ceiling linings.
The space is designed to have minimal running costs and the building's EPC rating is A+.
The workshop has been used as a pop up gallery during Somerset Art Weeks 2011, much to the delight of the visitors. The remainder of the site is still work in progress.
