Renovating a Cottage Using Traditional Materials
Axminster Design & Build completed the renovation of a cottage in Ham, Dalwood, using traditional materials and techniques to retain the character and integrity of the property.
The project included the renovation of the first floor as part of wider works that saw our team renovate the entire property.
Throughout the project, particular attention was given to using materials appropriate to the building, including traditional lime mortars and lime paints.
A Traditional Approach to Cottage Renovation
Older properties often require a different approach to modern buildings. Rather than simply introducing modern materials, consideration needs to be given to the way the original property was constructed and how new work will interact with the existing building.
For this cottage renovation, we used traditional materials throughout the relevant areas of the project, helping new and restored elements remain sympathetic to the character of the property.
This included the use of lime mortar and lime-based paints, maintaining a traditional approach to the renovation.
Lime Mortar and Lime Paint
Lime-based materials have been used in traditional buildings for centuries and remain particularly appropriate for many older and historic properties.
The use of lime mortar and lime paint formed an important part of the renovation at Ham, helping us achieve a finish appropriate to the style and construction of the cottage.
Working with traditional materials also requires knowledge of their application and an understanding of how they differ from modern alternatives.
Complete Cottage Renovation
Although the first-floor renovation is a particularly good example of the traditional materials and finishes used on the project, Axminster Design & Build was responsible for the renovation of the entire property.
This allowed the work to be approached as a complete renovation rather than a series of isolated improvements, with careful consideration given to maintaining consistency throughout the cottage.
Respecting the Character of Traditional Properties
The completed project demonstrates how traditional materials can be successfully incorporated into a comprehensive property renovation.
By using lime mortars, lime paints and appropriate building techniques, our team was able to renovate and improve the cottage while retaining the traditional qualities that give an older property its distinctive character.
Projects such as this form part of our specialist heritage and listed building services, covering the sympathetic renovation, restoration and improvement of historic and traditional properties.
Heritage & Traditional Property Renovation in Devon
Axminster Design & Build undertakes heritage and traditional property renovation projects throughout East Devon, Dorset and the surrounding South Coast.
From individual repairs using traditional materials to complete cottage renovations, our team can manage the entire project while ensuring that the methods and materials used are appropriate for the property.