The Henry Moore Foundation, at Perry Green in Hertfordshire, has a continuing policy of trying to make the sculptors work more available for viewing and the newly converted Sheep Field Barn Gallery, which displays a selection of his carvings, plasters, small bronzes and works on paper, is a very welcome new addition to the existing studios. As the name suggests, the structure was originally an agricultural barn and proved to be the most suitable building on the estate for conversion into a display area due to its size, close proximity to the studios and easy access for visitors. It seems particularly appropriate too, for a man whose work in the twenties and thirties was a fine example of romantic English lyricism, with enormous feeling for landscape and natural form.

Designed by architects Hawkins / Brown, the original steel skeleton was sand blasted, strengthened and reassembled. In place of asbestos cement cladding, black stained timber was used and the roof features standing seam zinc panels, which will patinate with time. This modern reinterpretation of a traditional barn, using quality materials, rather than the industrialised systems all too common today is very much in keeping with its location. This attention to detail and performance also applied to the floor insulation.

The architects, specified FLOORMATE™ 200-X, for installation under the slab and below the DPM. FLOORMATE, made from STYROFOAM™, the extruded polystyrene, blue rigid, insulation board from Dow, is an excellent insulant for installation under, or over, the slab in ground bearing floors. It is also suitable for use on suspended beam and block or timber floors. In addition to its many other features, the product has low thermal conductivity, high compressive strength and extremely low water absorption.