A barn brought back to life
A 17th-century barn, carefully reimagined — with nature, comfort, and thoughtful sustainability at the centre and a calm that feels built in.
A place to belong
At the end of 2011, we bought a derelict 17th-century barn and its outbuildings with a simple plan: to turn the main barn into our home, and to bring the courtyard buildings back to life as calm places for others to stay.
Building work began in July 2012. By June 2013 we moved in — and the quiet arrived with us. The kind you feel rather than hear. Space, stillness, and the steady presence of the countryside just beyond the door.
In spring 2014, The Suites opened. The approach is contemporary and quietly considered, designed to sit naturally alongside the character of the original buildings — light-filled spaces, thoughtful proportions, and comfort that doesn’t ask for attention.
With thanks to our architects, David Pocknell and Paul Sheridan at Pocknell Studio, for such a clear and considered design, and to our builder, Darren Nicolaou and his team at DNPS, for bringing it all together with care and craft.
Behind the scenes creating Pannells Ash
Living in harmony with nature
From the beginning, our aim has been to live here as sustainably as possible. Over time, that intention has shaped both the buildings and the land around them — practical choices, made for the long term.
- All hot water and underfloor heating is generated by an air source heat pump.
- Rainwater harvesting supplies toilet flushing, garden watering, and the car wash-down area.
- Incoming mains water is filtered and enhanced by a purification system imported from the US
- The toiletries we provide are from Faith in Nature and are free from parabens, SLS and SLES
- Native trees have been planted and a wildflower meadow seeded to support birds, bees and butterflies
- A natural pond was restored, removing approximately 250 tonnes of sediment and returning it to the land.
- In association with Natural England, bat boxes and breeding facilities have been incorporated within the build and neighbouring trees.
Today, Pannells Ash is a place to arrive gently — where the light moves across the courtyard, the landscape begins at the gate, and the pace shifts as soon as you step inside.