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The renovation and development of this Grade II Listed Farm Complex required a combination of complimentary materials and techniques to help transform a partly-derelict site into a stunning new country home.
Renovation of the Grade II Listed Cottage, existing outbuildings and Barn rebuild used Cardinal Reproduction Stonesfield Slates. These hand-made concrete slates offer a cost-effective alternative to Cotswold Stone. They are equally hard wearing, maintain the existing style and are approved for use in Conservation Areas in accordance with historic building regulations. These were laid using a Diminishing Course technique to match traditional stone slate laying methods, creating a historic look and feel. Corresponding concrete ridge tiles compliment the Cardinal Reproduction Slates and ensure a cohesive style across the larger buildings within the complex. A high quality breathable membrane was employed in place of traditional bitumen felt. This tough, hard-wearing man-made material is an energy-efficient green alternative to traditional roofing felt, and reduces condensation and the amount of ventilation required in the roof space. Three individually finished Dormer roofs were built into the main cottage roof, increasing light in the upper attic floor and enlarging living space. For the lower-level outbuildings linking the farm complex, Welsh Blue-Grey slates were used. These are an exceptionally durable, high-quality British material with a 100year-plus product life specified in line with Listed Building Regulations. A rare Adverse Pitch to the lower-level buildings required extra attention of detail. Original erections on the site were sited on differing ground levels, and to link them the roofs needed to be built at a steep angle to accommodate the uphill slope. Cast iron guttering and downpipes were specified throughout to continue the traditional style in line with Listed Building Regulations within a Conservation Area. Copper fixings were used on all the roofs. These traditional fixtures are non-ferrous, long lasting and reduce the risk of nail sickness, increasing the life of the roof. Lead-work for the project was both highly functional and decorative, using a traditional plain-stepped pattern. Details included the flashing of chimney stacks, abutments and valleys. |