South Barn by Studio Weave: A 158 sq m Isle of Wight Retreat Redefines 'Deep Reuse'
Je Ahn, the founder of Studio Weave, has converted a 158 sq m barn located on a functioning farm close to Cowes, Isle of Wight, into South Barn, a retreat that prioritizes 'deep reuse.' Retaining the barn's over 50-year-old structure, Ahn ensured that many original materials remained visible and were updated to align with contemporary standards. The residence boasts a spacious open-plan kitchen and living area, three bedrooms, and intricate craftsmanship by Mike and his team at Imphouse, alongside landscape design by Tom Massey Studio. Serving as his own client, Ahn successfully navigated a tight budget while ensuring luxury and site adaptability. This project, finalized in 2025, focused on improving accessibility and reusing materials for their historical significance.
Key facts
- South Barn is a 158 sq m residential project by Studio Weave on the Isle of Wight, near Cowes, UK.
- The project is the home of Studio Weave founder Je Ahn, who acquired an existing barn within a working farm.
- The design preserves the barn's 50-plus-year-old fabric, keeping many original materials exposed and repairing them for modern habitation.
- A large open-plan kitchen and living area with large windows is the heart of the home, with three bedrooms off a small corridor.
- Craftwork and detailing were done in collaboration with maker Mike at Imphouse and his team; the landscape was designed with Tom Massey Studio.
- Ahn acted as his own client, allowing nimble responses to site conditions, market pricing, and contractor capacity despite a limited budget.
- The concept of 'deep reuse' informs the design, repurposing on-site materials for their narrative and practical value.
- The project was completed in 2025.
Entities
Artists
- Je Ahn
- Mike at Imphouse
- Ellie Stathaki
- Tadao Ando
- Rem Koolhaas
Institutions
- Studio Weave
- Imphouse
- Tom Massey Studio
- Wallpaper*
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
- Bartlett School of Architecture
- Thames & Hudson
Locations
- Isle of Wight
- United Kingdom
- Cowes
- Greece
- London