What did this project do? Download Barns by McLean Quinlan | down features

McLean Quinlan’s work has been shortlisted for this year’s AYAs as the practice was named a finalist for the Individual Home Architect of the Year category.

In this series, we take a look at the team’s entry-level project and ask the company’s founding director, Fiona McLean, to break down some of the biggest specification challenges that needed to be overcome.

What were the most important requirements of the customer order? How did you meet these requirements through both design and specifications?

Our client’s existing home had been designed and built for them by Baufritz approximately six years previously. They loved the process and quality of construction, but wanted a new home for their family with more space, craftsmanship and renewable energy technologies.

We won the contract to design them a new house by listening to the history of their previous build and finding out what had worked, such as the wooden structure, and what had not been so successful. At the suggestion of our clients to work with Baufritz, we designed part of the house according to their system, but the main living space was designed using the traditional green oak frame construction adopted by Baufritz and their subcontractors. Our customers love the warmth of the exposed oak and natural finishes.

What were the biggest challenges in specifying the project and how were they overcome?

The green oak frame with a large glazing area to the main living space was probably the biggest challenge. Baufritz has partnered with a German green oak company. However, the large glazed sliding doors required careful detail work to ensure smooth operation. This also applies to the integration of horizontal windows next to the sliding doors, through which daylight can illuminate the sloping oak ceiling.

What are the three most important specification considerations for the project type? How did these specifically apply to your project?

• Specifying materials and services to make the project as sustainable as possible and reduce embodied and used carbon.
• Reduce the specification of volatile organic compounds as much as possible.
• Selection of natural and tactile materials to create a feeling of warmth and hygge.

Do you have a favorite product or material specified in the project?

Two favorites. The beautifully designed flint wall at the entrance and the green oak frame underline the character of the room.

Are there any suppliers you worked with on the project who made a significant contribution? And what was the most valuable service they offered?

There were many. This includes Baufritz, who shared our commitment to using natural materials and avoiding plastics and petrochemicals. The craftsmen at The German Carpentry and their dedication in creating the new oak frame and restoring and repairing the old wooden frame in the barn were outstanding and showed in the attention to detail and workmanship.

What do you think was the biggest success of the project?

In my opinion, the biggest success was the collaborative approach and team spirit. Everyone from the builder to the builders and consultants worked primarily to create a beautiful home.