A complex and carefully considered farm development project transforming historic Northumberland steadings into exceptional homes.
My husband farmed his family’s Northumberland farm alongside his parents for more than forty years.
The farm was not simply a business. It represented generations of work, heritage and identity.
Within eighteen months he lost both his parents to cancer, and at the same time the economics of the farming industry were becoming increasingly challenging.
It became clear that the farm needed a new future.
Rather than stepping away from the farm’s legacy, we chose to diversify in a way that would protect it.
The vision was to transform the traditional stone steading into a collection of executive homes while maintaining the integrity of the original buildings.
Where possible we reclaimed the original stone and retained architectural details that reflected the site’s history.
The goal was not simply development but thoughtful regeneration.
The project evolved into a multi seven-figure development.
We converted the stone steading into eight executive homes alongside the refurbishment and sale of the farmhouse and cottage.
In total, ten homes emerged from the transformation.
The process involved complex planning conditions, structural challenges and significant capital risk.
We managed the entire journey from concept and planning through to construction, marketing and final sales.
Beyond the Barn became one of the most demanding and formative projects of my career.
It combined commercial strategy with deep respect for heritage and landscape.
Today the development stands as a regeneration of the entire site.
When the timing is right, we will step into our next development with the same long-term vision and careful ambition.
“I’m very excited to be writing my book with Eleanor Mills, a former editor of The Sunday Times and The Sunday Times magazine, which tells the story from breaking down to breaking through, my journey from bankrupt single mum to multi-award winning entrepreneur.”
— Sarah Pittendrigh
A multi award-winning wedding and events brand built from a dining room table into a national franchise network.
A premium British wool fashion brand launching in 2026 celebrating craftsmanship, heritage and sustainable materials.
In my book I share the story behind the methodology and the adversity that shaped it.
From bankrupt single mum to multi award-winning entrepreneur, the journey became the foundation of The I CAN Method.
The book reached number one across seven Amazon categories and continues to inspire leaders looking to rethink what is possible.
Private, strategic mentoring for founders and leaders who need space to think clearly, reset direction and move forward with confidence.
Experience-led keynote talks designed to inspire audiences with real stories of resilience, reinvention and practical mindset shifts.
