London-based Tuckey Design Studio has announced plans to transform a concrete-frame barn into a modern winery facility on a farm near Worthing, West Sussex. The ambitious project will proceed under permitted development rules, allowing the architectural firm to convert the existing agricultural structure without requiring full planning permission.
The barn, located in the picturesque South Downs area, represents a significant opportunity to blend traditional rural architecture with contemporary wine production facilities. Tuckey Design Studio, known for their innovative approach to adaptive reuse projects, will maintain the building's agricultural character while incorporating state-of-the-art winemaking equipment and visitor amenities.
The conversion project takes advantage of permitted development rights, which allow certain types of building conversions to proceed with reduced planning requirements. This regulatory pathway enables agricultural buildings to be transformed for commercial purposes while preserving the rural landscape and supporting local economic development.
The South Downs location offers an ideal setting for wine production, with the region's chalky soils and favorable microclimate increasingly recognized for their viticultural potential. The area has seen growing interest from winemakers seeking to establish vineyards and production facilities in southern England's emerging wine country.
Tuckey Design Studio's approach to the project will likely emphasize sustainable design principles and respect for the building's original form. The firm has built a reputation for sensitive conversions that honor existing structures while creating functional, contemporary spaces that meet modern operational requirements.
The winery project represents part of a broader trend in rural England, where traditional farm buildings are being repurposed for diverse commercial uses including food production, hospitality, and agricultural tourism. This adaptive reuse approach helps preserve rural heritage while supporting economic diversification in farming communities.
