The Brief
Our clients in Sellindge wanted to transform their three-bay pole barn into a more usable and attractive space. The structure was dated, with an ageing asbestos roof and open bays that limited how the building could be used.
They asked us to convert one bay into an insulated leisure and gym room with modern glazing, while enclosing the remaining bays for secure storage and improving the overall look of the building.
The goal was to retain the character, but upgrade it to a warm, insulated and practical outbuilding suitable for year-round use.
Our Solution
We carefully stripped back the existing structure, including the safe removal of the old asbestos roof. Once opened up, we found some of the original timber posts were too damaged to reuse, so new treated timber structure was installed to ensure long-term strength and performance.
One bay was fully insulated and finished to create a warm, comfortable leisure and gym room, complete with a raised floor, plastered walls, heating, electrics and new glazing including a 3 m bi-fold door. The other two bays were enclosed with new garage doors for secure storage.
The exterior was finished with modern cladding to give the barn a clean rural look, and the front concrete ramp was removed and re-poured to improve access and provide a crisp finish.
Scope of Works Included
- Safe removal and disposal of asbestos roof sheets
- Strip-out of existing structure
- Replacement of rotten posts and roof timbers
- New mono-pitch roof installation with insulated corrugated roof sheets
- Full conversion of one bay into leisure/gym room, including:
- Insulated stud walls & ceiling
- Raised floor
- Plasterboard & plaster finish
- Lighting, power & heating
- New rear window
- 3 m bi-fold doors
- Enclosure of two bays with new garage doors
- New external cladding
- Removal and re-pour of concrete access ramp
The Result
The barn has been completely transformed into a modern, practical and attractive outbuilding that still reflects its rural character. The new gym and leisure room is warm, bright and comfortable for year-round use, while the enclosed bays provide secure and versatile storage.
The project was delivered on time, to a high standard, and with clear communication throughout — a true example of teamwork and planning done right.
“We worked with Hargrave on our barn refurbishment and couldn’t be happier. From the first detailed quote to the excellent communication throughout, everything was well planned and professionally managed. The team were hardworking, honest and quick to resolve any issues, keeping the project on track. We’re really pleased with the quality result and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Hargrave Construction.”
Project Snapshot
- Location: Sellindge, Kent
- Property Type: Pole barn conversion
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Customer Satisfaction: ★★★★★










