Manor Cottage restores integrity to a Grade II listed house dating back to 1672, addressing years of poorly judged alteration through comprehensive repair and modernisation. Stripping the building to its core structure, Hewn sensitively repaired its fabric using traditional methods and materials to reinstate the home’s historic feel while enhancing its environmental performance. Carefully integrated elements of modern interior design and functionality result in a unique family home that offers a contemporary living experience within a historically rich context.

Decades of inappropriate modification had compromised both the performance and legibility of the original 17th-century structure. Hewn stripped the house back to its structural core, exposing the oak timber frame and masonry so they could be properly assessed and repaired. Damaged elements were restored using traditional techniques, with natural lime mortar reintroduced to ensure breathability and long-term durability. Externally, lime render was reinstated to protect the building while returning clarity to its historic fabric.

Hewn’s fabric-first approach to sustainability balanced compatibility, longevity, and material intelligence to ensure the house performs efficiently while remaining true to its age and construction. Breathable wood fibre insulation panels were introduced to improve thermal performance without compromising the building’s historic character. These modern eco-friendly materials combined with traditional lime-based finishes enhance comfort while allowing moisture to move naturally through the fabric, reducing long-term risk to the structure.