This project initially started as an architect-led refurbishment/upgrading of a traditional part-timber-frame, part-brick-built farm house. However, following our examination of the specification details we felt that the drawings were not suitable for such a property.

The original design had called for new concrete floors with damp-proof membranes, installation of modern insulation materials to the internal face of the external walls, the installation of an injected damp-proof course, timber treatment etc. Although not listed, parts of the property display characteristics indicating a construction date of around 1600AD – wattle and daub panels, carpenters marks, carved stone inglenook fireplaces to name but a few.

After discussion with the owner it was decided that a more sympathetic approach was required and the contract changed to one of a ‘contractor-led’ specification. We introduced a Limecrete floor, incorporating underfloor heating and stone-flag finish. Wall insulation comprised of 100mm compressed wood-fibre board finished internally with new lime plaster. Old lath and plaster ceilings and the old lime wall plaster were kept wherever possible, minimising loss of original fabric.Wattle and daub panels were carefully consolidated where necessary. Sheep’s-wool insulation and wood-fibre panels were fitted to the ceilings at first-floor level. Externally, old cement render was removed, exposing original oak laths over the original timber frame. Laths were made good where necessary and then the whole was rerendered using a fat-lime-render mix followed by three coats of lime-wash. This approach is based on SPAB philosophy and methodology and backed up by thecurrent evidence presented by the leading conservation practitioners and authorities.