Our History
Durslade Farmhouse has a rich history, dating all the way back to c.1760.
Durslade Farmhouse forms part of a group of Grade II-listed farm buildings which dates from as early as c.1760. It was originally owned by the Berkeley family, whose coat of arms can still be found above the west-facing entrance.
A Picturesque Landmark Since the 1800s
Built in 1768 by the Berkeley family, Durslade Farmhouse’s neo-Gothic architecture made it a distinctive presence in Somerset, creating a strong contrast to the traditional cottages nearby.
More than just a working farm, Durslade was a reflection of the era’s desire to combine rural life with aesthetic grandeur. The farm’s design and operation balanced beauty and functionality, serving as both a productive estate and a picturesque retreat admired from the Berkeley mansion overlooking the landscape
The Renovation Project Began
Despite its aesthetic beginning, after a few hundred years and having changed hands three times, the buildings were left vacant and fell into disrepair. In 2012, Hauser & Wirth received planning permission to restore and repurpose Durslade Farm.
Experts at transforming unusual spaces into cultural hubs, blending the preservation of historical sites with contemporary art, creating vibrant destinations for both art and community.
Hauser & Wirth worked alongside concept architects and interior designers Laplace & Co on this unique renovation project, and conservation architectural firm Benjamin & Beauchamp worked to sympathetically restore the building.
Durslade Farmhouse As We Know It Today
Full of character and bold, innovative twists, Durslade Farmhouse’s interior has been transformed in a way that complements and celebrates the natural antiquity of the building. Although major restoration work was required, the architects made a virtue of the fact that the house had not been touched in over 50 years and retained much of the existing look.
Laplace & Co has kept many original fittings, combining them with vintage furniture sourced from local shops and salvage yards, as well as other unusual finds.
The interior is completed with unique artworks by two of Hauser & Wirth’s artists, Guillermo Kuitca and Pipilotti Rist.
A Blend of Agriculture & Architecture
Alongside the alterations, Durslade Farm remains an active farm that produces meat, cider, wine, and fresh fruit and vegetables for the on-site restaurant, bar, and farm shop.
To grab a taste of what Somerset has to offer, you can try the farm produce at the on-site Italian restaurant Da Costa or Roth Bar. Alternatively, you can browse the produce in person and online at Farm Shop, which has stores in Somerset and Mayfair.