Crosby Granger Architects were invited to design, tender and oversee the replacement of the dilapidated glasshouse and loggia at Leighton Hall, Lancashire.
Leighton Hall is a historic house dating from the 18th century, altered twice within the 19th century, with earlier remains, all set within extensive grounds, near the town of Carnforth in Lancashire. It is a family home which welcomes the public to visit the house and garden along with events including educational visits, weddings, venue hire and others.
The Victorian Glasshouse was part of the Paley and Austin works along with the west tower. This project proposed to restore the timber portion of the conservatory that was replaced in 2000. The replacement was in modern softwood, which had completely rotten, and the building had become unusable. Whilst carefully considering the overall appearance and heritage of this historically significant Grade II* listed building. The proposal sought to restore the aesthetic of the original Glasshouse and provide additional ancillary facilities within a new build extension.
All the of the existing metal work was carefully retained and refurbished for reuse. The existing open loggia was enclosed with painted timber doors that will match the existing window style. Under floor heating fed by a biomass unit has been installed to improve the thermal efficiency of the new building and in doing so the existing stone flags were recorded, carefully lifted and reinstated after the UFH was installed.
The proposed works needed to retain the original design of the glasshouse as a part of the overall aesthetic of the main front to Leighton Hall. A modern extension at the rear also provided discreet ancillary facilities for visiting groups.
The overall design of the extension to the rear is some-what modern and includes a shallow five degree pitched zinc standing seam roof contained within the service yard that will contrast yet compliment the adjacent historic building fabric and the new glasshouse.
Ancillary to the glasshouse, a new extension provides supporting facilities to the rear of the conservatory where it will be hidden from the front elevation of the hall. An existing stone wall to the rear of the conservatory forms one side of a service yard and had various lean-to buildings removed to accommodate the new design. A new opening in the stone wall with a Gothic arch allows access between the ancillary accommodation and the glasshouse which includes a new kitchen, toilets, disabled WC and small store.
Crosby Granger Architects is honored to have led the award-winning restoration of Eshton Hall, a Grade II* listed country house in North Yorkshire. Our work addressed previous substandard repairs, focusing on roof and guttering systems to prevent water ingress and structural damage. This project exemplifies our commitment to preserving historic estates through sensitive, sustainable interventions.
We were appointed to carry out the historical research, assessment, and strategic management review, and develop and publish a Conservation Management Plan for Furness Abbey and Piel Castle, both in the Guardianship of English Heritage.
Appointed to work on the renowned St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, set within the idyllic village in the Lake District, Crosby Granger Architects is undertaking sensitive conservation efforts. Our focus includes preserving the church's historic features and ensuring its structural integrity, allowing this iconic place of worship to continue serving the community and visitors alike.
Crosby Granger Architects led the restoration of Thornthwaite Hall, a historic residence in the Lake District National Park. Our work includes addressing structural issues, conserving original features, re-rendering and updating its modest facilities to meet contemporary standards. By carefully balancing preservation with modernization, we ensure the hall's historical character is retained while enhancing its functionality for future use.
Last week at Holker Hall...
It was great to bring together landowners, estate managers and rural professionals to discuss how Whole Estate Planning can support long-term resilience through sustainable growth, environmental stewardship and meaningful community engagement.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, including our fellow speakers, panel members and attendees, for sharing valuable insights and contributing to some thought-provoking discussions around Biodiversity Net Gain, estate strategy and the evolving opportunities facing rural estates.
Thank you to @holkerhall for hosting us in such a beautiful setting.
Jun 9
We’re delighted to share that we have been shortlisted for the 2026 RTPI North West Awards in the Excellence in Plan Making Practice category for the Higham Whole Estate Plan!
Developed through a close partnership between Crosby Granger Architects and the Lake District National Park Authority, the plan sets out a long-term vision for a 1,170-acre rural estate. Bringing together landscape, heritage, biodiversity and rural enterprise, the WEP demonstrates how strategic planning can support resilient rural communities while safeguarding landscapes and enhancing what makes them special.
The project demonstrates the value of collaborative, landscape-scale planning in helping to shape rural places - identifying opportunities for sustainable change and lasting community benefit.
We’re proud to see this work recognised and would like to thank everyone who contributed to the project.
Jun 4
Creating community engagement for an estate 🤝
Community engagement is one of the three core pillars of sustainable estate management. Our Whole Estate Plan ensures the estate is aligned with local aspirations.
We begin by listening to the community to understand their needs, concerns, and hopes for the area. This helps us identify opportunities to enhance connectivity, create employment and improve visitor access, all while respecting the character and tranquillity of the Lake District.
By aligning estate plans with community priorities, Higham can support a thriving local economy while ensuring a sense pride among residents.
#WholeEstatePlan #LandOwners #LakeDistrictNationalPark
May 29
