A converted barn in West Sussex with the most spacious interiors
The Great Barn in East Lavant might be the pinnacle of open-plan living


I’ve always had a soft spot for barn conversions, principally because I grew up in one. They are often very spacious, surprisingly modern and, most importantly, take heritage buildings and re-use them, which is good for the planet. Probably.
One of their great features is the tremendous double-height ceilings and spaces you often find in them. To understand what I mean, look no further than this splendid example in the village of East Lavant, with Fine and Country for £1.5 million.
This barn, titled The Great Barn, was originally part of a larger barn, which was then ‘sensibly’ converted into separate smaller dwellings in the 1980s.
It comes with four bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, two mezzanine areas and, most importantly, this absolutely massive open-plan living space on the ground floor that extends all the way up to the vaulted ceiling.
A knock-on effect of all this space is an abundance of light, which is something we all like, especially in these cold winter months. Naturally, plenty of the original beams have been left behind, creating a home with historic character and charm that is, due to the nature of its conversion, also effortlessly modern. Tremendous.
Outside, the gardens extend to about ¾ of an acre, and have been ‘meticulously designed and landscaped’, per the agents, creating an ‘appealing yet easily maintainable exterior space’. Pathways meander through well-manicured lawns, and there are plenty of mature trees and a dew pond. There is also a double garage, for your cars and the like.
East Lavant is itself based within the South Downs National Park, so the surrounding landscape is a joy to behold, and boasts two pubs and two churches. The cathedral city of Chichester is close by to the south, providing further amenities should they be so desired, and the area as a whole is a haven for those looking to golf, ride, cycle or sail.
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
Credit: Strutt and Parker
Best country houses for sale this week
An irresistible West Country cottage and a magnificent Cumbrian country house make our pick of the finest country houses for
A classic Georgian country house that's perfectly secluded amid woodland, orchards and lawns
Derwent Hill is a delightful country house that's just 20 minutes from Newcastle — yet feels like it's in a dreamy
Credit: Strutt and Parker
An Art Deco country house in Essex with almost 5,000sq ft of living space
New Farm near Great Dunmow was designed by Walter 'Pink' Crittall, and it's not hard to see how he got
Credit: Knight Frank
A heavenly thatched home in Oxfordshire that's a perfect chocolate box cottage
From Summer Fields and the Dragon all the way to Oxford University, Farthing Cottage near Wallingford has got expensive education

James Fisher is the Deputy Digital Editor of Country Life. He writes about property, travel, motoring and things that upset him. He lives in London.
-
‘Whatever do you do up there?’ enquire certain English infidels. The answer? ‘Lady, if ya gotta ask, ya’ll never know’: David Profumo's piece of heaven in Highland Perthshire
David Profumo on the joy and wonder of the Highlands.
-
I lichen the look of you: A rare lichen-covered fingerpost that's been frozen in time and donated to the Natural History Museum
A fingerpost, covered in 12 different species of lichen, has been donated to the Natural History Museum by Exmoor National Park — but they had some trouble getting it there.
-
The hound with the wind in its hair: Country Life Quiz of the Day, July 1, 2025
Heatwaves, bridges and dog breeds in Tuesday's Quiz of the Day.
-
Are you a 'frag head'? Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 30, 2025
Well, ARE you? And how well do you know Leonardo DiCaprio's 2002 work? It's time to find out.
-
The flying insect that needs a cuddle? Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 27, 2025
Friday's quiz spares a thought for the insect that walked — and flew — by itself.
-
When was the first ever Glastonbury festival? Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 26, 2025
Thursday's quiz looks at a landmark date at Worthy Farm.
-
From Summertime to sphagnum: Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 25, 2025
Wednesday's quiz ponders the last British woman to lift a trophy at Wimbledon.
-
Britain's prettiest cheese-themed spot: Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 24, 2025
Tuesday's quiz feels the heat, and pits St Francis of Assisi against William Shakespeare.
-
Summer Solstice, Roger Federer and battle of the Popes: Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 23, 2025
Monday's quiz asks whether the middle of summer is actually a moveable feast.
-
A secret swimming pool at Buckingham Palace? Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 20, 2025
Friday's quiz peeks behind the door of a royal palace and asks about one of the cruellest twists of fate in Greek mythology.