Best of Both worlds

Contemporary patterns and bold artwork combine to complement the historic character of Tricia and John Tallon’s barn

- Maggie Colvin

When Tricia and John Tallon decided it was time to downsize from their large family home, the options were not promising. Many of the properties they viewed came with large gardens that would require time-consuming maintenance. Plus, Tricia was keen on finding a distinctive property, so when a converted threshing barn came on the market, she was intrigued. ‘Most of the houses we had looked at up to that point were quite conventional, but this place combined historic character with clean lines,’ explains Tricia. ‘It offered the best of both worlds.’ Situated in Hampshire and overlooking unspoilt countryside, it had been immaculately converted by a developer. The high-vaulted ceiling and old beamed framework contained an open-plan layout, with a kitchen linked to a dining area, sitting room and hall, making a great entertaining space for a couple who enjoy hosting parties.