LOCATION HIGHLIGHT : GREY BARN
Welcome to the ‘Location Highlight’. A platform that takes a deeper dive into the inspiration, behind the scenes and secrets of our BEC locations. BEC locations has been ticking away in the background a little while now, but now we aim to give it some spotlight. At BEC we love all things property and design and are always on the look out for a variety of different, wonderful and classic shoot locations. keep a look out for our next locations coming soon!
This month we speak to Jo from the gorgeous Grey Barn shoot location. We find out the inspiration behind the once was cow shed, what her favourite productions in her home are, and how to prepare if you are thinking of renting your home for shoots and productions!
- Hi Jo, hope you are well? You have a beautiful property. Could we ask what the inspiration was behind the architecture and design of your property.
Grey Barn is a converted steel frame cow shed. It was originally built in the 1980's but was converted into a home about 7 years ago. We purchased the property about 6 years ago. The barn is approached by a tree lined driveway and the garden is mostly laid to lawn apart from the raised beds which are planted as a cut flower garden during the summer months. Most of the living space is on the ground floor; vast main living space, 4 en-suite guestrooms, large hallway and playroom. Upstairs, we have the master bedroom with dressing area and en-suite plus a mezzanine overlooking the main room. About 4 years ago, we built a complimentary building in the grounds that is now my husbands office, carport, storeroom and covered veranda/BBQ area.
How would you describe the style of your home?
The style of our home is very calm and fairly neutral. We have used layers of natural textures; woods, linens, metals etc to create harmonious background.
What is your favourite room/space in the house?
Our main living room is my favourite room. It is a very spacious double height room that consists of kitchen, dining, lounge and office area. This room has masses of natural daylight due to the enormous windows, which makes it ideal for photoshoots. It also has a log burning stove which creates great ambiance during the cooler months. It really is the hub of the home.
You've seen lots of productions in your home, what has been your favourite project you've seen to date?
We have seen a variety of projects and I have loved them all. Strangely, I think my favourites are the larger productions where there are lots of team members, the house is chaos, but there always seems to be a great vibe.
How do you find the process of renting your property out for shoots?
I am very relaxed about having people in my home; I love to host so having lots of people/crews around seems very natural to me. I always get asked about how I feel about it, and it really doesn't phase me atall.
“Strangely, I think my favourites are the larger productions ”
- What advice would you give to anyone thinking about opening their house up for productions?
Be prepared to be tidy all the time. Luckily, I am very tidy person but I seem to spend most of my life either tidying or cleaning! If you have children, (like I do), try to make preparation easy for them before a shoot day. Maybe give them a basket that all their clutter can be popped in and hidden until the shoot is over. Always make guests feel welcome, leave a jug of water, I always make a cake - not expected but guests always remember the little touches.
“If you have children, (like I do), try to make preparation easy for them before a shoot day.”
What are your typical operating hours and how far in advance do we need to book?
As long as we have some advance notice, we can be very flexible on hours etc. If necessary, I can utilise before & after school clubs, so that my children are not around. Obviously, as much notice as possible but if I have availability, I can book guests/clients in just a few days beforehand.
Do you have rooms dedicated for models/ stylists?
Most guests have used our playroom for hair and make-up. As there is lots of natural light, a large desk/surface area and situated just off the main living room, the playroom lends itself perfectly. We have 5 en-suite bedrooms which means plenty of space for models etc to get changed etc.
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