A Thoughtful Rural, Housing Development Transformation: The Beeches, Bradbourne, Derbyshire

Louise Jones
3 hours ago
2 min read

Set amidst the rolling Derbyshire countryside, The Beeches, Bradbourne is undergoing a carefully considered transformation, blending traditional agricultural architecture with contemporary design. While planning permission for this ambitious rural redevelopment was led by Planning & Design Practice, Matthew Montague Architects has been instrumental in shaping the design narrative, ensuring the new dwellings complement their surroundings while offering modern functionality.

Designing for Rural Character and Contemporary Living

The redevelopment of Beeches farm includes the demolition of the original farmhouse, which is being replaced with a larger, bespoke dwelling. The scheme also reconfigures the three existing barns, introducing a separate access route to serve the converted buildings while providing a private entrance for the main house.

One of the barns is undergoing a full conversion and extension, while another is being rebuilt using the original materials to retain the site’s inherent character. The largest agricultural barn is being converted and carefully remodelled with the design providing a strong visual connection to its agricultural past.

A Sensitive Approach to Design

In keeping with the rural setting, the proposed conversion work thoughtfully incorporates existing architectural elements. Where possible, original openings have been retained for windows and doors, preserving the proportions and character of the former agricultural structures.

A key feature of the design is the introduction of large glazed openings on the southeast elevation. These reflect the scale and rhythm of traditional barn apertures, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new. The vertical emphasis of the fenestration respects the original building's form, reinforcing the sense of agricultural heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics.

Set well back from the public highway, the buildings maintain a discreet presence in the landscape. With elevations visible from public viewpoints largely unchanged, the development integrates harmoniously into its surroundings, enhancing rather than disrupting the rural character.

Maximising Natural Light

To create bright and airy interiors, new window and door openings have been carefully positioned to ensure every habitable room benefits from natural light. The balance between solid and glazed elements has been meticulously considered to provide a high standard of amenity for future residents while preserving the integrity of the original structures.

A Contemporary Vision Rooted in Tradition

The redevelopment of The Beeches is a striking example of how traditional farmsteads can be reimagined for modern living without losing their rural identity. By respecting the site's agricultural heritage while introducing high-quality contemporary design, this project showcases Matthew Montague Architects’ expertise in creating sensitive yet innovative architectural solutions.

As work progresses, The Beeches, Bradbourne will stand as a testament to the power of good design—where old and new coexist harmoniously, and the beauty of the countryside is celebrated in every architectural detail.

Read more about Barn Conversions and Rural Properties.