2021 Master Builder Awards, Sustainability Award winner
National winner: Carrock Homes Ltd
This project saw Carrock Homes Ltd take on a significant challenge to convert an historic cruck barn into a modern, energy efficient family home while retaining and restoring original features. The contemporary extension also ensured the property maximised views of the surrounding Lake District National Park.
After securing planning permission, the team started work. However, less than a month into the job they received word from Historic England that the property was now Grade II Listed, which meant an immediate halt on construction work while Listed Building Consent was obtained.
Carrock restored the original oak cruck frame, which required traditional techniques, using timber from their own salvage stock mixed with local salvaged timbers, to seamlessly blend the repaired areas of the main building frame. The precarious exterior stone walls and key areas of structural support were stabilised before being dismantled and rebuilt using lime mortar.
Extensive heritage techniques such as Lime Hemp plasters and stone pointing were used throughout the project, and the plaster work was scribed into the gnarled oak frames to showcase these historic elements through the renovation. Salvaged or second-hand materials such as Burlington slate, stone and restored timbers were sourced locally and used extensively on the project.
Carrock installed a raft of modern technological features including a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system, air source heating linked to underfloor heating, and sustainable drainage to create a more sustainable home for their clients.
The independent judges recognised this project as a "labour of love" which rescued the property from ruin and delivered an eco-home that blended well with its natural surroundings. They praised Carrock's re-use of site materials to mitigate environmental impacts and maintain the true character of the site, resulting in a "a very well-crafted job".
A “labour of love” which rescued the property from ruin and delivered an eco-home that blended well with its natural surroundings.”
The 2021 Master Builder awards concluded in September. Could one of your current projects win an award in the next competition? Nominations for the next awards will be opening in Autumn 2022, read more about it on our awards pages or contact [email protected] for more information.
