Set within nearly two acres of Hampshire countryside, Foxhole Barns is an exceptional private barn conversion that reimagines the site of a once-collapsing dairy farm into a stunning, modern family home.

In 2018, the client, who left a corporate career in London to pursue his dream of building his own home, commissioned Winchester-based AR Design Studio to transform the dilapidated structure into a four-bedroom residence. Known for their award-winning contemporary homes in rural settings, AR Design Studio embraced a design concept that celebrates the barn’s original character. The scheme sensitively preserves historic features, such as the exposed brickwork and original beams, while introducing striking industrial elements including a bespoke steel staircase, a swimming pool, and contemporary furnishings.

Photographer – Alice Whitby

Before construction could even begin, the clients dedicated nearly 18 months to meticulously clearing the overgrown site themselves. As costs exceeded initial estimates, they took the ambitious decision to self-project manage and personally assist contractors as a general labourer, demonstrating remarkable commitment and hands-on involvement to bring their vision to life.

At the heart of the home sits a commanding corten steel fireplace that draws the eye and radiates warmth, both literal and physical. Overhead, the mezzanine level floats above the main living space, framed by preserved beams that crisscross like bones of the old barn, now brought back to life with architectural precision.

Photographer – Alice Whitby

Natural light floods through carefully placed apertures, accentuating textures of rough brick and warm timber, highlighting the interplay between old and new. Concrete floors and industrial fittings are softened by layers of bespoke furnishings and curated views out to the surrounding fields.

Foxhole Barns is more than a renovation: it’s a testament to passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of great design rooted in its landscape.

Photographer – Alice Whitby

Client Testimonial
AR Design Studio is an RIBA chartered architects practice, based in Winchester, Hampshire, specialising in elegant and imaginative contemporary new homes, extensions, renovations and multiplot developments. AR Design Studio’s architectural expertise and flair has been recognised by winning a number of prestigious industry awards including the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) South East 2018 Award, the RIBA South West Award 2017, American Architecture Award 2017 and the UK Property Awards 2017, in addition to being longlisted for Grand Designs House of the Year Award 2018. With a comprehensive knowledge of planning, AR Design Studio has built a stunning portfolio of bespoke residential projects.

For further information contact info@ardesignstudio.co.uk

Photographer – Alice Whitby

Architect
Andy Ramus – Architect
AR Design Studio
Calpe House, 20 Little Minster Street, Winchester, SO23 9HB, UK
www.ardesignstudio.co.uk
https://twitter.com/ARDesign_Studio
https://www.instagram.com/ardesignstudio/
Photographer – Alice Whitby
Size + Scope Total- GIA 550sqm
Estimated Project Value – £5.7 million