Preece & Sons (Carpentry) Limited, based in Kington near Worcester, was crowned a national winner at the Federation of Master Builders’ 2025 Master Builder Awards.
It took home the Large Renovation Project Award, sponsored by People’s Pension, for the transformation of a barn in Broughton Green, near Droitwich, into a high-spec, energy-smart home that combines rustic heritage with contemporary comfort and efficiency.
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James Preece, director at Preece & Sons, said: “Winning this award is fantastic — any accolade like this is so important for us as a small county firm to showcase who we are.
“The barn conversion project really stood out for its quality and heritage value and none of it would have been possible without our amazing team.
“Every individual is an expert at what they do and I couldn’t recommend them more highly.”
The project was praised for its craftsmanship, design flair and engineering precision — from a dramatic metal spiral staircase and curved en-suite bathroom to sustainable features like an air source heat pump, underfloor heating and upgraded insulation.
The awards are regarded as the highest industry accolade.
Sensitive barn conversions ask builders to hit two targets at once — protect historic fabric while delivering modern performance and flow.
This project did both, upgrading insulation to support an air source heat pump and underfloor heating while retaining the building’s character through careful material choices and detailing.
A dramatic metal spiral staircase anchors the interior while a unique curved en-suite, redesigned from an intended kitchenette, creates a seamless wet room.
Original oak beams were retained and complemented with new feature timbers to celebrate the barn’s structure.
A wall of curved Crittall doors floods the kitchen with light and two-toned hardwood flush casement windows complete the look.
Extensive oak replacement at the front and rear required propping roof and walls to maintain stability, executed with meticulous sequencing to protect the fabric.
Wet underfloor heating throughout is powered by an air source heat pump, paired with upgraded insulation to achieve efficient U-values.
A dedicated EV charger and thoughtful services — rewire and distribution board upgrade — bring long-term practicality to a period setting.
Weekly client and architect updates, prompt neighbour engagement and rapid action on a suspected oil contamination kept the programme on track.
Ground testing confirmed the issue was localised, avoiding major disruption and maintaining trust on all sides.
Nicola De Sousa, central hub director at the federation, said: “Preece & Sons’ barn conversion is timeless and created with real craftsmanship.
“It’s the kind of thoughtful transformation only a small builder like them can deliver.
“Their win is a proud moment for the Midlands and comes at a time when builders across our region are under real pressure — from skills shortages and cost inflation to a planning system that holds projects back.
“To see more projects like this, the government needs to back the builders behind them with support for training, apprenticeships and a planning system that works.”
The federation’s chief executive Brian Berry said: “This barn conversion is a masterclass in combining old and new.
“Preece & Sons have delivered a home that retains rustic charm while embracing cutting-edge efficiency and design.
“Their skill, perseverance and client focus make this a truly outstanding renovation.”
Hosted by television presenter Nick Knowles at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower Hotel late last month, the awards celebrate the UK’s best small or medium-sized enterprise builders.
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