Get Inspired By This Barn Conversion

A Case Study

We love exploring different interiors, from cosy cottages to barn conversions. There is nothing we like more than to see our customers’ home renovations, and one that caught our eye was this barn conversion transformation. Focusing on using raw materials such as wood, concrete and exposed bricks, the barn was converted into an industrial haven; our lights were used throughout the space, which we couldn’t be happier about!

We had the pleasure of talking to Naomi (@barnconversionblog on Instagram), who with her husband, transformed a barn into a beautiful home. We had the opportunity to discuss the thought process behind the project, and learn all the tips and tricks which were picked up along the way. Get ready to be inspired!

What Prompted You To Convert A Barn?

We were looking for a while for a barn to convert, and a friend had told us that the government were helping people that wanted to convert an agricultural barn to a residential property. The Planning Office has to make a decision within eight weeks, which is very convenient. There are rules to follow, such as we cannot change the footprint but, in all honesty, we wouldn’t want to!

What Was The Biggest Change You Made To The Look Of The Building?

The biggest change was adding loads of windows everywhere; it really lights the place up but also makes it a striking project from the outside. We wanted a house that would bring the outside in; we are so lucky to be surrounded by countryside that we wanted to make the most of this by maximising access to our outdoor area.

What Look Were You After For The Interior?

Because it was a barn, we wanted to reflect this on the inside without overcomplicating it and by using a small selection of raw materials and textures. We kept it as simple as possible with a restricted colour palette. One thing we knew from the beginning was that we wanted dark grey polished concrete floors throughout downstairs. After having the floors done, it seemed natural to have a dark kitchen, and that dictated the style for the rest of the house.

What Made A Difference In The Interior?

The grey ceiling in the open-plan space downstairs, this made such a difference! It just brought everything together and gave it a cosier feel whilst still being very industrial. The stairs also made a big difference, at the beginning we were thinking of having them on the side of the room, but we wanted to make them a feature piece in the house, and it splits the rooms really well. They are very simple industrial stairs with timber treads and make such an impact. The mesh balustrade allows maximum light in whilst complimenting the theme.

Which Lights Did You Choose From Us?

Brooklyn Dome Pendant in Brass - These look fantastic with dark interiors, and I have paired them up with other brass accessories in the kitchen for a more dramatic effect.

Brooklyn Giant Bowl Pendant in Pewter - These are my favourite ones they look fantastic! They look like they were just meant to be there: we have four along an open corridor, the repetition is really pleasing, especially in the evening as they downlight sections of the corridor.

Swan Neck Cone Wall Light in Pewter - These are great for casting shadows and look perfect on our wooden wall.

Why Did You Choose Industville?

Your lights are the only ones in my opinion that truly live up to their industrial look and high quality whilst being much more affordable than some of the competitors.

What Tips Would You Give To People That Want The Barn/Loft Look?

Be bold with dark colours! Our bedroom is a dark green, and it is a colour that many people stay away from because they feel it will bring darkness to the room. In my opinion, it gives a very cosy feel! We hardly have any white walls, woodwork or ceilings and we think that’s what makes it stand out.

Also, try and use raw materials where possible. Brick, steel, concrete, wood, leather, exposed filament lightbulbs, glass and metals all contribute to the simplistic appeal. The addition of luxury touches such as the brass pendants and large double-sided fire enhances all these rougher textures to give a high-end finish. Our landing is clad in plywood and then covered in a geometric wooden beading design. It is the ultimate attic feeling, and the swan necks compliment it immensely.

Where Did You Go For Inspiration?

I am a web designer, so I guess striking design comes as second nature to me. I spent many hours on Pinterest and Instagram, and it gave me a lot of inspiration. Sometimes though you must stick with your gut. Along the way, everyone challenged us on our ideas from friends and family to social media and tradespeople, but we are so glad we stuck to our gut, and they all seem to agree we were right to do so. For example, when I was choosing a countertop for the kitchen, I asked people on social media whether to choose white or black? Most of them said white, but I chose black, and I am so happy I did!

What Is Your Best-Kept Secret To Achieving A Unique Look?

My best-kept secret is to find images of exactly what you want, to make it clear to your trades what you are after. When you go for a haircut restyle you would share a photo of what you want with the hairdresser; why should a staircase be any different?!

We loved speaking to Naomi about her renovation; it’s incredible what they’ve achieved with the space. Our lights were the perfect match, helping them to bring the vision of their industrial dream to life!

"When we were designing our interiors, we wanted lighting that was industrial but would match our colour scheme. We searched all over for the perfect solution and came across Industville: absolute industrial simplicity and really competitively priced. The lights have transformed the spaces: especially the giant bowl lights which epitomise industrial warehouse-style! We love how you can mix and match so many different shade styles and finishes, to find the perfect combination for every unique home. Excellent customer service and speedy delivery: full marks from me!" - Naomi Page (@barnconversionblog)

Are you thinking of adopting the barn style in your own home? Take a look at our industrial style lights that will bring the wow-factor to your home décor. If you need some inspiration, our social media channels have plenty on offer with the wonderful works of our current clients. If you have a renovation to share with us, we’d love to see!