Master Builder of the Year 2005
South West Region
Certificate of Excellence

Judge's Report:

"Total renovation and extension of an old barn, locally known as "The Elephant House", into two storey living accommodation for a client who described himself as fussy. A detached double garage was also created from another existing building.

The Architect designed the project but as the site was not surveyed, the slope required much unplanned excavation and foundation support. The transformation is such that the overall internal and external feel and appearance is not barn like. The quality of finishes and use of materials, like old French oak and exceptionally laid reclaimed tiles, both on the barn and the new green oak garden room, gives a magnificent appearance.

The hard landscaping and the brick cladding to the ground beam foundations are a superb finish, as is the matching brickwork in the outhouse.

The main heating is under floor and the client has found that the insulation levels are high enough with this, not to have to use their central log burning stove. All joinery was provided by local companies for the builder and is high quality and well fitted."