Conversion and re-use

BROAD ECTON FARM CONVERSIONS

This project was undertaken whilst employed at Anthony Short and Partners.

A major project to renovate and convert this traditional Derbyshire farm group dating from the early 19th Century; including Listed Farmhouse, Workman’s cottage and associated stone barns. Conservation led project to maintain the character of the group, within the context of the historic landscape; the Peak District National Park.

Using traditional techniques and materials the Farmhouse and Workers Cottage were generally repaired, overhauled and modernised to provide a comfortable family home. The associated outbuildings required major repair and rebuilding to convert them into luxury holiday accommodation which would be a subsidiary income to support the farm.

Built from a hard wearing Derbyshire limestone, large areas of walling had to be rebuilt where the solid core had washed out due to the lack of maintenance over several years. All buildings were repointed using a natural hydraulic lime mortar; a key consideration when understanding the performance of solid walls in traditional building and their breathability.

Internally the Farmhouse was generally overhauled, involving the extensive removal of modern gypsum and cement based materials which had consequently led to sever damp problems. Throughout all the buildings a natural lime hemp insulating plaster was applied to the external walls and used to upgrade the thermal performance of the external walls and maintain breathability.

Utilising the heavy masonry structure and its thermal mass, a ground source heating system was used to provide an efficient means of heating. Hot water is also provided by the ground source system.

With no main sewer connection, an efficient sewage treatment plant using aerobic micro-organisms to break down and treat sewage was installed for environmentally friendly waste disposal.

PROJECT INFO

Project type: Barn conversion of listed building
Categories : Restoration, Traditional Skills, Conversion