Country house rescue

This 17th century, Grade 11* listed farmhouse and tithe barn were dangerously close to ruin. The house, which dates from 1610, was in disrepair, had only been partly inhabited for many years and was considered “at risk.” Masker Architects was appointed by the new owners to repair, restore and update the main house and collection of barns to create a substantial family home for 21st century living. 

Progress can be seen in these recent drone images. (link to YouTube video) Planning and listed building consent applications have been submitted.  Initial exploratory and roofing works have been negotiated with the council ahead of permission.

Currently under construction, a new guest cottage replaces unlisted previous ancillary accommodation and completes the original form of the old farm courtyard. The new building will feature a double height space and extensive glazing to maximise views of the beautiful countryside. Built from high quality traditional materials including oak frame and reclaimed bricks, permission was secured by Masker Architects. 

Works to repair and refurbish the main house is next, including a new single-storey rear addition to house a large family space. In the meantime, fully covered scaffolding has been erected to keep the house dry. Work to secure the long-term future of this important early house will include strip and rescue of the roof, repairs to stone masonry, brickwork and windows. Challenges include dry rot, decayed timber floorboards and damaged lathe and plastered ceilings from rain leaking through the roof. 

Once the planning and listed building approvals are achieved for the house, the tithe barn will be next. To date the old tithe barn has been secured through temporary structural works.  A full timber frame survey has also been carried out. It is intended to keep the barn as a large barn space to respect its existing structure and historic significance. Together with other timber-frame buildings in the farm complex, including 18th century stables, it will get a new lease of life as a mixture of entertainment, office and living space. 

Architects: Masker Architects

The project team includes: Rebecca Loughran, project management and interior design; Nigel Challis of Andrew Waring Associates, structural engineering; James Webb of Forum Heritage Consultants; Charles Brooking, Historic Buildings Consultant; David Brooks of Decadet- timber frame specialists, Chris Bottle of Indigo Landscape Architects; Moulding- Main contractor; Sally Stepheson of Owl Lighting; HD Services- ground source heating specialists; Onyx Civils- ground works; Eric Blake- drone imagery and Hill and Valley Creative, video editing.