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This farm in open countryside in an Area of Special Scientific Interest has an oak- framed early 16th century farmhouse with a three bay main range and cross wing, altered in the early 19th century. The home of painter Eric Ravilious, it was subsequently subdivided in the 1950s. The lath and plaster panels were replaced with cement and some of the oak framed leaded windows were lost. The outbuildings were close to collapse.

 

Kennedy O'Callaghan Architects was appointed to conserve the house, cart pond, outbuildings and walled garden, and design a new apple store, garage and guest accommodation following the development pattern of the historic farmyard.

 

The farmhouse and outbuildings were conserved following the principles of The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings using green oak, hand made tiles and bricks, lime mortar and traditionally crafted lead hoppers. The 1950s windows were replaced with leaded lights in green oak frames with forged ironmongery. Carved Tudor beams were uncovered during the work. The kitchen and bathrooms were renewed.

The second phase in 2023 was to over-insulate the oak frame with insulated lime render, finished with traditional pargetting.

Farmhouse Essex

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