Hall House

A private residence since around 1375, this medieval hall house has undergone many alterations. It was extended and altered in 1574 and again around 1690, when the large mullioned windows were inserted and the classical doorcase added, along with a fine newel staircase. Battlements were added in the early 19th century, and in the early 20th century many of the windows were replaced with Critall steel casements.

Most historic buildings require periodic inspections, usually at 5-year intervals, and careful maintenance planning based on this, to ensure that repairs are prioritised and funds effectively targetted in the unending battle against deterioration. Here, many of the early steel windows were badly corroded and we were initially appointed to advise on their repair, and in a couple of cases like-for-like replacement. We also designed matching new steel windows to replace failed modern aluminium replacements; the traditional timber sash and case windows were repaired rather than replaced, to preserve the historic character and appearance of the house.

Other works included repairs to the chimneys, rebuilding battlements, and the removal of cement render to allow walls to breathe and deal with dampness problems, staving off decay and maintaining the value of this important heritage asset, as well as its beauty and convenience as a private home.