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".
Crosby Granger Architects have restored Low House Farm, a Grade II listed property comprising a house, bank barn, and long-house with outbuildings, located southwest of Littletown in the Newlands Valley, Cumbria. Our work focuses on preserving the historic fabric of these structures, employing traditional materials and techniques to ensure their longevity and continued agricultural use.
Crosby Granger Architects was engaged in the conservation and restoration of Morland Hall, a historic estate nestled in the Eden Valley. Our approach involves meticulous preservation of original architectural elements, such as stone masonry and timber structures, while integrating modern amenities discreetly. This ensures the hall's historical integrity is maintained, providing a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary comfort.
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.
Plummer House, a historically significant listed building, is undergoing condition assessments and careful repairs. Conservation consultancy ensures that interventions align with its heritage status while maintaining its architectural integrity. By combining technical expertise with a deep respect for historic buildings, we ensure necessary interventions preserve the structure while supporting its ongoing use.
We have been appointed architects for Muncaster Castle, and conducted a series of ongoing conservation work to protect this Grade I listed historic site. Our research, condition surveys, and restoration efforts ensure the longevity of this architectural treasure. This project highlights our expertise in heritage stewardship, maintaining the castle’s legacy while enhancing its visitor experience.
We`re proud to share that the Higham Whole Estate Plan received a Commendation at the 2026 RTPI North West Awards in the Excellence in Plan Making Practice category!
The project was developed through a close partnership between Crosby Granger Architects and the @lakedistrictnpa, creating a long-term vision for a rural estate that balances landscape stewardship, biodiversity, heritage and economic resilience.
We had a fantastic evening celebrating planning projects from across the region. One of the highlights was hearing poet Tony Walsh perform a selection of poems inspired by places across the North West, including the Lake District - a fitting reminder of the connections between landscape, heritage and community that underpin so much of the work recognised on the night.
Congratulations to all those recognised on the night🌟
Jun 25
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
