No.1 Longhouses farmstead, whilst not listed, has its origins in a 17th century longhouse. It’s layout and fabric have been much altered over the subsequent centuries and its present configuration and sub-division has been greatly affected by a refurbishment in 1983.
The principals guiding our proposals for No.1 Long Houses are sensitive repair to retain as much of the historic fabric as is practically possible, to return the performance of the materials to a homogeneous balance by removing inappropriate modern materials and replacing with traditional and permeable materials.
Where we created new spaces within the existing structure, such as completing the barn conversion and the ancillary domestic accommodation within the outbuilding, the design has been formed around the ideas of, minimal enclosure of open space to retain agricultural nature of buildings and setting. Minimal intervention at junctions between new and old, using traditional and permeable materials that will not affect the performance of the existing solid masonry walls. Minimal new openings (barn; 3 windows, 2 roof-lights, outbuilding; 1 roof-light) to allow natural light to internal spaces.
Retaining agricultural nature of buildings through size, proportion and materials. Where we demolished modern extensions and created new structures to the rear of the property to form a conservatory and a bay window our concepts were, to remove unsightly additions to return the building to a simpler form, to keep new build within the footprint of the earlier extensions but reduce the volume and reduce impact with a light touch of new to old.
“There’s more on the “renovation” tab of the properties website if of interest.”
“We chose CG because we wanted a conservation architect on our restoration project, both in terms of protecting what was there, but also reversing some more recent modern alterations to the property. CG was of particular help in taking our initial ideas, complementing them with their input, and driving it through the planning permission process. After a long haul, we are delighted with the outcome. Our visitors book sums it up: “fabulous house in a splendidly serene location", "beautiful comfortable house, amazing setting", "so well refurbished", "The house exceeded our expectations".
We were 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.
#Restoration #Architecture #HistoricEngland
Mar 12
Bringing new life to Fazeley Town Centre 👷
Our proposals transformed the historic mill into 50 characterful apartments, arranged around a central corridor, with a contemporary new escape stair sensitively added to complement the building’s scale and industrial heritage.
The annex was divided into a range of 2-4 bedroom townhouses while make full use of the annex and its dual aspect which over looks the canal and the new residential units being constructed within the wider site 🙌
#Conservation #Architecture #HistoricEngland
Mar 10
We`re proud to be working with Levens Hall Estate on a carefully agreed programme of conservation works guided by a deep respect for the site’s history, heritage and environment....
The works include:
🌿 The re-roofing of the cockloft
🌿 Chimney repairs and limewashing
🌿 Comprehensive leadwork replacement
🌿 Timber repairs
🌿 Repairs to gutters and downpipes
Alongside the physical works, the project places a strong emphasis on skills-sharing, with training provided to the estate team and estate workers from neighbouring properties. This involved training in traditional materials and techniques, including limewash, lime mortars and leadwork. Additional CPD days will open this knowledge more widely, supporting best practice in the care, repair and understanding of historic buildings.
Through every stage our approach remains rooted in context, preserving the past while building for the future.
Drone credit: @wham.visuals
#Conservation #Architecture #Kendal
Feb 19