How couple recycled materials from old cow shed to create this incredible self build

This Devon farmstead was transformed by reusing the existing materials of the house in order to create a family home based around an art studio.

Artist Suzanne Blank Redstone and her husband, Peter Redstone, have been residents of Middle Rocombe Farm since the early 1970s, but about 15 years ago they embarked on the transformation of the farm buildings into a home.

The self build, now rather aptly called the "Cowshed", stands out by its clever recycling materials, demonstrating how agricultural buildings can be repurposed.

How self build recycled materials from cow shed

Inside, the exposed structure and surfaces pay homage to the original character of the cow shed.

The majority of the original cow shed remains intact, supplemented by locally sourced concrete blocks and cedar boarding.

Sustainability is a key focus for the entire farmstead as the existing cow shed structure has been upgraded with a super-insulated envelope and an structural insulated panelled roof. 

Additionally, the farm uses a ground source heat pump and a shared water treatment plant (where wastewater is collected, purified and reused) to minimise energy consumption.

Self build reused the roof too (minus the asbestos)!

David Kohn, founding director of David Kohn Architects who designed the home, stated: "Cowshed is an exemplar of reuse. It was originally built by our clients in the late 1970s to house their dairy herd. It was the cheapest most expedient agricultural structure available at the time.

"It used concrete posts to support timber trusses and an asbestos roof with concrete block walls. Other than replacing the asbestos, we reused every aspect of the existing structure.

"It sends a positive message to our industry that something considered so lowly and non-domestic 50 years ago has been transformed into a progressive home to last another 50 years."

Home designed with art studio at its centre

The house design revolves around the art studio, serving as the core and focal point of the house.

This double-height studio features provides a spacious setting to showcase the clients' art. Adjacent to the studio, there's an open-plan living and dining area.

Bedrooms and an office are situated on the ground floor, in order to ensure the home remains a lifetime home.

Large windows highlight owners' artwork

The home is well lit through carefully placed windows and rooflights, which David Kohn Architects says draws inspiration from the client's sculptures and artwork.

Framed views of the surrounding landscape and a covered veranda and outdoor workshop were also installed as part of the self build.

The home was nominated for the RIBA Home of the Year for 2023 with the House of the Year jury stating: "Cowshed is both pragmatic and has a multitude of references to high culture.

"Cowshed demonstrates how an agricultural building can be celebrated, reused, and repurposed in a humble yet inventive way that is both welcoming as a family home and appropriate to its setting."