Architecture

A Tiny Barn Addition To A Coastal Family Home

The Woodworkers Barn designed by Fabric Architecture is an additions project unlike anything we’ve seen before! The building is not quite a granny flat, not quite a tiny house, but a true multi-purpose space providing its owners added space away from their main house.

The finished project is a testament to the architect and client’s (the owner of Loughlin Furniture) complementary skill sets and vision.

Written
by
Amelia Barnes
Supports The Design Files

The barn is located in the backyard of a home previously renovated by the same architect. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Large barn doors open the space to connect to the home’s outdoor entertaining area. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Collaroy Bench Seat by Loughlin Furniture. Timber wooden boards custom-made by Maywood. Velux skylights. Wall and ceiling lining by Easycraft. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Stumpy Stool by Loughlin Furniture. Savannah Arched Mirror by Salt x Steel. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Locally made wares are dotted throughout the space. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Harrington Lounge 2 Seater by Loughlin Furniture. Artwork from House of Poppy. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

The interior design takes cues from classic Australian cottages that once lined this coastal peninsulaPhoto – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Timber details on the barn. Construction by Hudson Lane. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

The barn is used as gym, a place to unwind, and for added space when entertaining. Photo – courtesy of Fabric Architecture.

Writer
Amelia Barnes
14th of November 2019

The Woodworkers Barn is the second stage of Fabric Architecture’s renovation to a family home in Toukley, on the NSW Central Coast.

The main house on the site had undergone a major renovation in the previous year, but after living in the home, the client decided more room was needed, so the idea of a multi-purpose backyard space was born.

‘After meeting with clients to discuss their stage two, we designed on a steep, pitched ‘barn’ with feature timber doors making use of the client’s skill [as the owner of Loughlin Furniture],’ says Fabric Architecture director, Brent Fitzpatrick. The project showcases Loughlin Furniture’s craftsmanship on details from the Tasmanian oak barn doors and awning, to the American oak staircase and bulkhead feature.

The reasons for this barn aesthetic were twofold: to complement the architecture of the nearby main house, and incorporate high ceilings able to make the most of the structure’s small footprint. ‘The challenge was how to make a small footprint feel large and airy,’ says Brent. ‘This was achieved through the steep, pitched roof, allowing plenty of internal height. The loft is also stopped short of the front wall to create a large void and emphasise the volume. Velux skylights were also key to flood the interiors with natural light.’ The design also takes cues from classic Australian cottages that once lined this coastal peninsula. ‘Our Woodworkers Barn makes reference to the humble qualities of the cottage, while highlighting these details through exquisite craftsmanship,’ Brent says. 

This backyard space is now used in myriad ways: a gym; a place for the kids to have movie nights with neighbours, and as an extension of the home’s outdoor entertaining area. ‘They just open the big barn doors and the guests spread from the barn to the back deck, as it is all in close proximity and visible,’ explains Brent. 

‘It’s not often the end result is better than what we anticipate, but this was one of those projects. We must say it’s all credit to the clients passion, craftsmanship and style.’

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