What is a Flemish barn?
A Flemish barn is a large farm barn that stands apart from the farmhouse and has three aisles. In Dutch it is called a vlaamse schuur. The type is found in Flanders and the Dutch province of North Brabant, and according to Wikipedia also on the South Holland islands and in the Belgian province of Antwerp. In Belgium it is also called a Kempen barn. It was used to store hay, grain and farm implements and to house livestock.
Characteristics
- Freestanding: the barn stands separately from the living quarters.
- Three aisles: the central aisle holds the bay for hay and straw. One side aisle stores implements, the other is used for example as a stable.
- Walls: one or more walls of black tarred, overlapping boards (weatherboarding). Often at least one wall is brick.
- Roof: traditionally thatched with reed. From the 19th century tiled roofs also appear.
- Entrance: a pair of tall double doors so that carts can drive in, usually in the short end of the barn.
- Frame: the load-bearing timber frame is usually asymmetrical.
Application
Many Flemish barns have been converted into homes, workshops or business premises. The form is also copied in new build, for example as an outbuilding with black timber cladding and a steep roof.
Tips
- Maintaining the boards: tarred or black-treated timber needs regular retreatment. Keep the bottom edge of the boards clear of the ground to prevent rot.
- Check the frame: in a conversion the timber frame is the structure. Have decay or sagging members assessed before you start.
- Thatched roof: thatch needs extra attention to fire safety, for example around chimneys.
- Use and protected status: living in a barn is not always permitted. Check the planning rules and whether the barn is a protected monument first.
Related terms
- Schuurberg
- Hay barn
- Threshing floor
- Weatherboard
- Thatching
- Thatching reed
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