Think Storage and Larchfield Estate Shortlisted for Prestigious Historic Houses Honour

We are thrilled to announce that Larchfield Estate (including Think Storage) has been shortlisted for the Historic Houses Diversification Award 2026 — a highly respected accolades in the heritage estate sector. The nomination recognises our Diversification Award 2026 journey at Larchfield Estate, including celebrating how a derelict cattle shed in Co Down has been transformed into Northern Ireland's first heritage estate self-storage facility – Think Storage.

A Family Estate Embracing the Future

Larchfield Estate is a 425-acre, family-run Georgian estate in County Down, centred on a Grade B+ listed manor house dating to the 1780s. Over the past two decades, the estate has undergone a strategic and carefully considered programme of diversification — each project designed to breathe new life into historic buildings while generating the revenue needed to protect and conserve the estate for future generations.

From Tractor Shed to Celebrated Events Venue

One of the estate's earliest and most transformative diversification projects was the conversion of a former tractor shed into a stunning wedding and events barn. Today, Larchfield is one of Northern Ireland's most sought-after exclusive-use wedding venues, offering couples an unrivalled setting amongst historic parkland, walled gardens and woodland. The estate also welcomes businesses through its corporate events offering, providing a distinctive and inspiring alternative to conventional conference venues.

Luxury Self-Catering in a Heritage Setting

Complementing the events business, Larchfield has transformed its historic courtyard buildings and cottages into exceptional luxury self-catering accommodation, sleeping up to 43 guests across beautifully restored heritage cottages and courtyard rooms. Guests can also experience something truly unique in Myrtle — a renovated 1952 Swiss Army glamping truck that has become a guest favourite. Whether booking for a group escape, a family celebration, or an exclusive estate buyout, visitors enjoy an authentic immersion in living heritage with all the comforts of modern luxury.

Think Storage: The Next Chapter

The most recent addition to Larchfield Estate's diversification story is Think Storage, launched in 2025. The £420,000 project converted derelict cattle sheds into a modern, purpose-built facility housing 96 secure storage units and dedicated vintage car storage — all while retaining the character of the estate's agricultural heritage. It is believed to be both Northern Ireland's first heritage estate self-storage facility and NI's first carbon-negative storage facility. The award is proudly sponsored by Savills.

Think Storage: A Project Born from Persistence

Bringing Think Storage to life required significant commitment and perseverance. Navigating the farm diversification planning process is inherently complex, and the team worked hard over an extended period to satisfy all necessary requirements and demonstrate the project's credentials — a process that ultimately made the finished facility all the stronger.

That determination has paid off. Within just nine months of opening, Think Storage has hit just under 80% occupancy — a level that industry experts had predicted would take at least two years to reach. Outstanding Google reviews and strong community uptake speak to the genuine local need the facility fills, with customers drawn from within the typical five-to-ten mile storage catchment.

"Being shortlisted for this award means a great deal to us," said Sarah Mackie. "Think Storage wasn't just a business decision — it was about finding a sustainable future for this estate that honours its past. We're proud to be challenging the typical image of self-storage by offering something genuinely different, in a stunning heritage setting."

Gavin Mackie added: "The planning process was incredibly challenging, but we never lost sight of what we were trying to achieve. This shortlisting is a wonderful recognition of what's possible when you commit to doing things properly and don't take shortcuts."

Heritage and Commerce, Hand in Hand 

The Historic Houses Diversification Award recognises estates that have found innovative, sympathetic ways to generate income while protecting their heritage assets. Larchfield Estate's submission highlights how Think Storage sits alongside the estate's weddings, corporate events, and self-catering accommodation as part of a cohesive, interconnected business — with every revenue stream contributing to the ongoing conservation of its listed buildings and historic parkland.

With low traffic impact, reuse of existing structures, and a carbon-negative operation, Think Storage exemplifies what thoughtful rural diversification can look like.

The award winners will be announced later in 2026. We look forward to celebrating with the Historic Houses community.

Find out more about Think Storage at www.think-storage.co.uk and Larchfield Estate at www.larchfieldestate.co.uk