Beck Barn is located on the periphery of the village of Linton-in-Craven, a Conservation Area within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, immediately adjacent to Grade II* listed Fountaine’s Hospital. The original barn is a typical example of vernacular construction associated with traditional farming practices commonly found throughout the National Park. These field barn structures make a major contribution to the wider landscape character and scenic beauty of the area. However, many of these structures are no longer suitable for modern agricultural practices, leaving them without purpose.
© Chris Wharton
The barn underwent a sympathetic restoration, converting it for use as a contemporary family home. Externally, the stonework was cleaned and the badly weathered lime pointing was replaced using traditional techniques. Reclaimed, weathered stone headers and sills have been used to form new modest window surrounds.
© Chris Wharton
Part of our brief was to explore ways to extend the property to take advantage of the uninterrupted views towards Cracoe and Thorpe Fells, which lay across rolling countryside to the south. We collaborated closely with the local authority to develop a proposal that is contemporary in nature, providing contrast to the host dwelling whilst protecting and enhancing its setting. The resulting design draws influence from local traditional lightweight agricultural structures.
© Chris Wharton
The extension is clad entirely in Siberian Larch, specifically chosen to blend harmoniously with the coursed rubble walls of the original barn. The timber cladding was coated with SiOO:X. In the months following application, all boards will turn the same tone regardless of their color and exposure to the elements, resulting in a desirable, uniform warm silver-grey appearance. A large format X-brace larch sliding shutter – a subtle nod to the traditional barn door – provides shading and security. All windows are deeply recessed between a series of vertical larch fins for privacy and to emulate the revealed depths of the original barn.
Project Info
Architects: Benjamin Wilkes
Country: United Kingdom
Area: 28 m²
Year: 2024
Photographs: Chris Wharton
Architect: Benjamin Wilkes
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.