Another attraction is the fact that often, councils will allow developers and builders to use the footprint of old farm buildings that have been out of use for seven years or more. Barns, stables and other farm buildings are generally of very ample proportions and so provide architects with interesting spaces from which they can create a flexible family home.

Add to all that the fact that the best quality farm buildings were built with materials that are today treasured elements of our heritage, such as hand-made bricks, stone and huge oak timbers, all of which can be lovingly restored.

The last reason why old agricultural buildings are attractive is that they often come with a bit of land, paddocks, orchards and more.

Surprisingly, given all of the above, you can also still pick up some bargains. If you decide to go down the sometimes slippery path of restoration it is certainly advisable to employ an expert. Many building firms now specialise in this area of development so there is almost certain to be one near you.

An inspiring example of what can be done with disused agricultural buildings is the Oast Barn near Sevenoaks in Kent. This contemporary five-bedroom home, created within a Grade II listed building, was converted with some additions in 2012. It shows some of the features that can be designed using the bones of old farm buildings and which are highly fashionable today. These include double height windows, glass-fronted mezzanine floor accessed by Smet-designed oak and glass staircases and mellow yellow old beams.