Construction students learn about barn conversions on site visit

13th December 2023 – Tags: Construction, Degrees and Higher Education

HND Construction and the Built Environment students gained an insight into the challenges of converting barns built in the 1800s into modern residential and holiday accommodation during a visit to Itteringham.

The £2m+ project is being managed by the National Trust, which owns the barns which are part of Itteringham Manor.

During the visit, the students were shown around the site by Senior Building Surveyor, Nigel Houghton.

The students heard about the plans for the conversion, which will see 7 units built within the barns.

They learnt about the key considerations for this project, including the archaeology of the site, its ecology, sustainability requirements, and EPC ratings.

In addition, they heard how the conversion must take account of the National Trust’s carbon targets, the fact that the barns are in a conservation area, installing an air source district heating system (as there is no mains gas to the site), and incorporating solar panels into the build.

Barn conversions are an important segment of the market for converting properties to residential use, with each project posing unique challenges, making this a valuable learning opportunity for our students.

Find out more about HNC & HND Construction and Building Services courses