This ambitious project involved the redevelopment of Durslade Farm in Bruton for Hauser & Wirth, Somerset. Beginning work in April 2013, the project took 15 months and £3.5m. We redeveloped the existing farm buildings into gallery space, office space and a restaurant/bar. We also constructed newly-built gallery spaces and as well as landscaping the surrounding farm yards and meadows. Our aim was to retain as many of the original features and agricultural elements as possible, whilst also adding a contemporary feel.
The project consisted of a combination of new build, restoration and refurbishment work. It also included the marrying of 16th century stone farm buildings to contemporary steel frames, and the introduction of surface water management through an attenuation pond and attenuation tank. New joinery was fitted to all buildings, new floors were laid and polished and all roofs were replaced. The original 13ft timber barn doors were replaced with fully-functional glazed doors and large 17ft precast columns were erected. The new galleries now form part of a visitor attraction which was opened in 2014 and has proved very popular, significantly exceeding anticipated visitor numbers.