2023 has begun and i’ve been taking some time to reflect on how far we’ve come with the cottage since our renovation journey began. After a slow start with architect technicians and finding the right building team we finally started the huge task of completely renovating the existing house at Honour Farm. Our goal for phase 1 of the build has been to lovingly restore the building back to liveable standards which involves replacing all the windows, tanking the basement, rebuilding interior walls, damp proofing, stud walls in every room and completely re-insulating, a complete rewire and plumbing, fitting a new kitchen and bathroom etc (the list goes on and on). Phase 2 which will come at a later date, will be to knock down the building which was added later than the original cottage which was built in the mid 1800’s. This building currently consists of a small kitchen accessed from the ground floor and an unusual third bedroom from the first floor. We’ll then work to architect plans to build a new extension which is sympathetic to the property and our style.
The main bedroom, post the ceiling being vaulted and mid the stud wall and insulation work.
Not one for the faint hearted, as from the basement right up to the rafters needed extensive work. Thankfully we bought and sold just in time before the mortgage rate increase, however we’ve certainly been stung by the rising increase of materials and labour costs which is being seen across the board in various industries atm. Luckily by October 2022 we finalised plans and since November our building team have been in almost every day working long hours to bring the project to fruition. They’ve been truly incredible to work with so far, being someone who really appreciates detail and craftsmanship it’s been very refreshing to work with a team who have the same set of standards and pride their work so highly.
An example of the work being carried out in the main bedroom. The ceiling has been vaulted to expose beams, all walls have been studded, insulated, rewired, waiting to be plastered.
The main bedroom prior to renovations, a damp uninspiring space.
We’re at about the half way mark now, keeping positive and optimistic that by the start of March we’ll have moved in and be able to start working through the interiors of the house. The bathroom will thankfully have been fitted and complete, so if all else fails i’ll have breakfast, lunch and dinner sat in there… We sold our previous house last April so it’ll have been almost of a year of living with family nearby by the time it comes to us leaving. Which we are eternally grateful for, but at this point also chomping at the bit to nest in our own home.
The living room, mid stud and insulation. (The entire basement and ground-floor also had a slurry treatment prior to studding).
I’ve been documenting the progress pretty extensively, so when we do come round to getting our feet over the threshold i’ll take some time to share it all in much greater detail, with plenty of before and afters.
Hattie x