Grade II Listed Barn Conversion Project in Essex

Grade II Listed Barn Conversion in Essex

May 19, 2025 Rachel Finlay Comments Off

Project Overview

Bakers of Danbury are nearing the completion of a Grade II listed barn conversion in Essex into a commercial letting space. Located on a working farm in Essex, the barn restoration project focuses on maintaining the barns historical integrity while upgrading its structure, roofing and facilities for modern use.

The photos show the barns prior to work commencing and we look forward to showing you progress photos soon as the restoration of this project in Coggeshall, Braintree takes shape!

Key works of the restoration project

Structural repairs:

The existing curved cornered soft red brick wall was suffering from cracking due to the existing ground level imposing load and pressure against it as well as rising damp issues. Extensive underpinning and a structural external retaining wall were installed to address this. The brick walls were carefully dismantled and rebuilt with the original and matching materials with lime mortar used.

Roofing:

The barns were re-roofed with a metal insulated roofing system and traditional clay triple roman roof tiles, replacing the unsafe corrugated asbestos sheets.

Timber repairs:

Rotten oak plates, rafters and valleys were replaced to resolve the wet rot and damp issues.

Drainage, utilities and landscaping:

A new drainage system, BioDisc treatment plant and new electrics and plumbing were added. A new DDA-compliant kitchen and toilet facilities were also installed. A new carpark and courtyard will be created to improve access and functionality.

Conservation requirements

Sourcing bricks that were the right colour and size was crucial for maintaining the building’s historical character and meeting conservation guidelines. The project required expert knowledge in heritage restoration to ensure this was done correctly blending original materials with new.

Why Choose Bakers of Danbury?

With many years of experience as building contractors in Essex, Bakers of Danbury delivers high-quality restoration projects. We specialise in barn conversions, church and heritage restoration across Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

Please contact us to discuss your conservation project.