Historic Farmhouse Restoration: Breathing New Life into Lake District Heritage
The Challenge
When we first visited this 18th-century farmhouse in the heart of the Lake District, its walls told a familiar story. Previous attempts at renovation using modern cement-based materials had trapped moisture within the structure, leading to persistent damp issues and deteriorating plasterwork. The owners wanted to restore their home using traditional methods that would allow the building to breathe whilst preserving its historic character.
Our Approach
Drawing upon our deep understanding of traditional lime plastering techniques, we carefully removed the cement-based materials and prepared the walls using time-tested methods. We selected premium quality lime putty and combined it with horse hair reinforcement—a technique that has proven its worth over centuries.
The Process
Our work involved:
- Careful removal of existing cement-based plaster
- Thorough preparation of the underlying stonework
- Application of multiple lime plaster coats reinforced with horse hair
- Traditional finishing techniques to achieve an authentic surface texture
- Close collaboration with the Lake District National Park planning authority
The Results
The completed project showcases the outstanding benefits of traditional lime plastering:
- Restored breathability to the building fabric
- Eliminated previous damp issues through natural moisture regulation
- Created a beautiful, subtle sheen characteristic of authentic lime plaster
- Preserved the building's historic integrity while ensuring its longevity
This project exemplifies our commitment to traditional craftsmanship and our passion for preserving the Lake District's architectural heritage. The natural flexibility of the lime plaster will continue to protect these walls for generations to come, moving with the building rather than fighting against it.
