You have had some beautiful places to holiday in, Joan. I really like the design of the Champagne Castle, especially the roof. I see in Europe some houses are barn conversions. Not a thing I see done around here but, why not, if it’s a good building. Horses are definitely not used much anymore on the farms with all the tractors and other farm equipment available .
Thatch roofing is not used everywhere due to lightning or baboons ripping into it, always gives a wonderful homely feel.
Using old barns not something you see here too often either, Britain appear to be doing a lot in conversions.
Horses now run wild in many countries no longer serving man, not so much here with horse and donkey still in use in many parts of the country for moving goods.