THE name party barn is bandied around with gay abandon, but it has recently become a misnomer. ‘Twenty years ago, it had a very different look and feel,’ says Lindsay Cuthill, head of the country-house department at Savills. ‘Back then, it was much more basic and faithful to its name—it was a barn where you might host the occasional party. In preparation, little more was required than sweeping the floor, hanging some fairy lights and renting a few air heaters for events. Once it was over, the space would revert to being used as overflow storage from the main house. That was about it.’
As a new generation has migrated to the country, these spaces have become more ambitious in size and scope; many are now fitted with underfloor heating courtesy of a ground-source heat pump, professional sound systems, mirrorballs and full-service kitchens. Having a small bar and a large television screen or projector is almost a given; a gym, yoga studio, sauna or a steam room also appear on wish lists. A large proportion include guest suites.
This story is from the November 30, 2022 edition of Country Life UK.
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This story is from the November 30, 2022 edition of Country Life UK.
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