This is an annual award for conversions, extensions and alterations to existing buildings within the district completed in the preceding 12 months. (Reepham secured two commendations in 2013 for Hampton’s Home & Garden and the Old Bakehouse.)
 
Bought by the Pender-Cudlips in 2004 with planning permission to convert into a home, the Grade II listed Malthouse Barn had never been inhabited and was in a poor state; the roof urgently required replacement and the walls repaired.
 
The judging panel said: “The conversion of this barn has been a lengthy labour of love. Originally a 16th century timber-framed building rebuilt in brick in the 17th century and altered and extended in various ways since, the present works have respected both its character and its materials.
 
“The new floor structure is insulated limecrete rather than the more usual concrete slab, while careful internal planning means that new openings have been kept to a minimum – the main living area is lit only by the former barn door openings and two existing slits in the gable end, but still feels spacious.”
 
Mrs Pender-Cudlip said: “We are delighted to have been able to bring such a wonderful old building into use as a beautiful and practical family home, working closely with our builder, Dave Parnell Cook of Woodgate Builders, Mileham, to make the most of the unique opportunity.
 
“It is pleasing to hear the panel refer to the superb craftsmanship from Dave as well as our local specialist contractors, notably the lime plastering undertaken by R.G. & N. Banham of Gressenhall, the oak doors and windows by Bunting & Son of Stibbard, and oak staircase by White’s Staircases of Hethersett.
 
“While much of the exterior is unchanged, the interior has been transformed into a spacious, well-insulated and welcoming four-bedroom dwelling. So that people can see this for themselves, we intend to hold an 'open house’ in the latter part of next year to raise funds for Help for Heroes.”