Barn conversions & bespoke new builds in Devon & Cornwall
A barn conversion or a bespoke new build is the largest project most people will ever commission. It is also the one where having a single, accountable main contractor matters most. We work as principal contractor on barn conversions and new builds across North Devon and North Cornwall — taking the project from groundworks through to the day you get the keys, coordinating every specialist trade ourselves rather than leaving you to juggle electricians, plumbers, plasterers and a kitchen fitter. Most agricultural barn conversions in our area go through Class Q prior approval rather than full planning, which we can advise on at the first site visit. New builds typically require full planning but the route is straightforward once the design is settled.
What is involved in barn conversions & new builds
Barn conversions and new builds reward patience at the design stage. Spending an extra two weeks getting the drawings right and the specification properly resolved saves months on site later. We will read your drawings before quoting and flag anything that looks expensive to build or likely to cause problems down the line — not to talk you out of the design, but so you can decide with your eyes open. Class Q conversions are an excellent route for redundant agricultural buildings in our area and we are happy to advise on the process for rural plots across the Torridge in Devon and Cornwall border. New builds we approach the same way we approach extensions, just bigger: solid foundations, honest specification, and a programme that reflects the realities of South West weather and material lead times.
Build duration depends heavily on the size and specification of the project — we'll give you a realistic programme as part of your written quote rather than a sales-pitch number. Both new builds and Class Q barn conversions require building regulations approval throughout, which we handle as part of the contract.
Scope on a typical job
- Setting out from architect's drawings and breaking ground
- Strip foundations to engineer-specified depth, concrete pour, DPC
- Blockwork or stonework superstructure with full cavity insulation
- Roof timbers, breathable membrane and slate or tile covering
- First fix — stud walls, joists, staircase, electrical and plumbing chases
- Plasterboard and skim throughout, ready for decoration
- Coordination of kitchen, bathroom, electrical, plumbing and decorator second fix
- External works — drainage, driveway, fencing, making good
- Building regs inspections at every required stage; completion certificate at handover
Full Q&A and pricing in our everything-you-need-to-know page.
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Free, no-obligation site visit and a written quote. Honest advice, real answers — and full coverage in Devon and Cornwall from our Holsworthy base.