From rundown schoolhouse to Gothic splendour

A new extension and total renovation of this Grade II listed former schoolhouse resulted in a threefold increase in its value - and a dream home for the owners.

The owners worked closely with builder, Mark Porter, to create the Gothic look they wanted. Attention to detail was meticulous throughout, with reclaimed materials and purpose made elements used wherever possible - from scalloped roof tiles, gothic window arches with purpose made oak frames to raftered ceilings and a hand-carved spiral staircase. From both the interior and exterior, it is impossible to see where the old ends and the new begins.

In the kitchen, grey-green wooden units are offset by a dark red stone tiled floor, which continues through the hallway to a large dayroom with an imposing carved wooden fireplace. The first floor bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and en-suite bathroom with sunken bath, turquoise resin wall tiles and contemporary glass wash basin.

What the customer said:

"Our builder involved us at every stage of the project and was incredibly flexible about changes I wanted to make." Jane Webb

What the builder said:

"It was a joy to work on the project. It gave us a chance to test our skills and prove what we were capable of." Mark Porter, Dam Green Services

What the Master Builder of the Year judges said:

"This a brilliant example of client and customer working in harmony."

Description of work carried out:

Two-storey brick and flint extension and renovation of a Victorian school house and earlier extension

Builder’s name:

Mark Porter, Dam Green Services, Kenninghall, Norfolk

Master Builder of the Year 2002

Overall Winner