The Shearling Shortlisted for British Homes Awards 2026

The Shearling - Barn conversion sliding doors in Rutland - IQ Glass

IQ Glass is pleased to announce that The Shearling, designed by Graham Handley Architects, has been shortlisted for Home Transformation of the Year (up to 2,500 sq ft) at the British Homes Awards 2026.

Located in Stoke Dry, Rutland, The Shearling is a former agricultural sheep barn that has been transformed into a contemporary rural retreat overlooking Eyebrook Reservoir. Once used to shelter animals grazing the surrounding meadows, the single storey barn now contains three bedrooms, open plan living spaces and a landscaped courtyard with an outdoor swimming pool.

The design retains the character and simplicity of the original building while introducing high quality contemporary finishes and improved thermal performance. Traditional materials, textured plasterwork and areas of exposed brick sit alongside bespoke timber doors, a modern Bulthaup kitchen and carefully considered interior detailing. Original agricultural features, including feeding troughs, have also been incorporated into the external landscaping.

IQ Glass was proud to contribute a range of specialist architectural glazing systems, including slim sliding doors and slim aluminium casement windows.

Large, full height glazed elevations frame panoramic views across Eyebrook Reservoir and the wider Rutland countryside. The slim sliding doors connect the open plan living areas with the external terrace, maximising natural light and creating a strong relationship between the converted barn and its rural surroundings.

The completed project demonstrates how a modest agricultural structure can be sensitively adapted for modern living while remaining true to its original character. We congratulate Graham Handley Architects, Lux Construction Group and everyone involved in delivering this shortlisted transformation and wish the team every success as the awards progress.

Explore the full case study for The Shearling and discover more about the glazing specification.

Photography: The Shearling © @uniquehomestays