A Home for the Stars of the Sky

Kynren, based near Bishop Auckland, is renowned for its spectacular open-air performances that bring British history to life on a grand scale. Their latest production includes a feathered cast—birds of prey trained to fly during the show. To keep these birds safe, comfortable and well looked after, they needed specially adapted housing—and that’s where we came in.

We supplied three Roundhouses and a selection of traditional shed-style structures to be used as aviaries. It was the first time our Roundhouses had been used to house birds rather than cattle—and it presented a fascinating challenge.

Adapting the Roundhouse

Although the internal layouts and fit-outs were handled by others, the buildings themselves had to suit the unique requirements of the project. Each Roundhouse was designed to accommodate multiple sections, making it easy to divide the space while retaining access from a central handling area.

One of the most effective features is this central pen, which allows for straightforward care and handling of the birds—a major plus for the team managing them day-to-day.

A New Look and Feel

Instead of our standard galvanised finish, the structures were painted, and the interiors were timber-clad by others to create a warmer, more immersive atmosphere. The result is something quite special—still unmistakably a Roundhouse, but with a completely different feel that fits perfectly within the theatrical world of Kynren.

Built with the Environment in Mind

Our Roundhouses are well-suited to open rural environments thanks to their practical design and robust build. They also include rainwater harvesting systems, which help reduce water consumption on site. Their low-profile roofs and sympathetic colour finishes help them blend discreetly into the landscape—ideal for projects where appearance matters just as much as function.

A Proud Collaboration

While we didn’t carry out the internal works, we’re proud to have played a part in such a creative and ambitious project. The feedback from the Kynren team—especially their Head Bird Keeper, who has years of experience including at London Zoo—has been overwhelmingly positive.

This project is a brilliant example of how agricultural design can be reimagined for something completely unexpected. Whether it’s livestock, machinery, or now falconry—our Roundhouses continue to prove just how adaptable they are.