Local barn builder Rookery Barns unveiled its new Southdown shepherds' huts range last Saturday at the Surrey Union Point- to- Point.

The traditional looking building, on cast-iron wheels and with a curved roof and wood-burning stove, originates from the huts that were used in the past to provide shelter for shepherds out in the fields.

A major difference is that Southdown shepherds huts are designed with modern comfort and functionality in mind, so that they can be used as a home office, children’s playroom, artist’s studio, guest accommodation or simply a cosy place to get away from it all.

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Rookery Barns Managing Director Robin Welland-Jones said: "We wanted to retain the quirky charm of the shepherd's hut whilst providing high quality and comfortable accommodation that suits our clients' contemporary lives."

The huts are fully insulated and a mix of traditional and modern materials are used to build them - copper or zinc roofs, maintenance - free weatherboarding, engineered oak flooring and double-glazed windows. The larger of the two hut ranges, the Complete Southdowner, includes a kitchenette and fully equipped compact bathroom with shower unit, basin and toilet.

Welland- Jones has seen increased demand from home-owners in Surrey and Hampshire for habitable ancilliary accommodation and believes Southdown Shepherds Huts offer a flexible option. "They can be transported to different locations, you can take them with you when you move house and they do not generally require planning approval."