Corless Cottage - heritage refurbishment
Our Work
Corless Cottage
Project Summary
- Start date: September 2023
- Completion date: July 2025
INTRODUCTION
Located in the picturesque semi rural village of Dolphinholme, Lancaster, Corless Cottages is a Grade II listed, three storey end terrace cottage. The property required comprehensive internal and external refurbishment to meet modern living standards while preserving its historic character and heritage value.
Project Overview
Heritage led refurbishment delivering modern, energy efficient living
This project involved the full refurbishment of a traditional stone built cottage, combining conservation led techniques with modern construction solutions. Works included extensive internal upgrades, external repairs, and installation of energy efficient systems, all delivered in line with strict conservation requirements. The result is a high quality, sustainable home that preserves the building’s historic integrity while meeting current housing standards.
Project Details
Property Type
Grade II Listed Three Storey End Terrace Cottage
Client
Duchy of Lancaster
Scope
Full internal and external refurbishment including heritage restoration, structural repairs, and energy efficiency upgrades
Occupancy
Unoccupied during works
Challenges
Overcoming Challenges
- Limited access via footpath restricting deliveries and waste removal
- Exposure to harsh weather conditions due to open rural surroundings
- Strict conservation requirements for a Grade II listed property
- Unforeseen structural issues including damaged lintels and roof timbers
Solutions
How We Delivered
- Coordinated in house logistics using flatbed vehicles for efficient deliveries and waste removal
- Installed Monarflex sheeting to scaffolding for weather protection
- Engaged specialist heritage subcontractors for lime works and sash window repairs
- Utilised trusted structural engineers for rapid assessment and design solutions
External Fabric Restoration
Repointing to multiple elevations, lime rendering, and stone repairs to preserve and protect the building envelope.
Internal Heritage Plastering
Lime plaster applied to internal walls to maintain breathability and align with conservation standards.
Modern Kitchen & Bathroom Installation
Full replacement of kitchen and bathroom with updated layouts, fixtures, and finishes.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Installation of High Heat Retention Storage Heaters and insulated immersion hot water cylinder.
Electrical & Heating Systems Renewal
Complete electrical rewire alongside new heating and hot water systems designed for efficiency.
Windows, Doors & Finishes
Timber window repairs, new external doors, flooring throughout, and full internal redecoration.
VALUE ADDED
The project significantly enhanced the long term performance and usability of the property while preserving its historic significance. Through the use of traditional materials and skilled craftsmanship, the refurbishment ensures the building remains structurally sound, visually appropriate, and fit for modern occupation.
PUBLIC IMPACT
The restoration of Corless Cottages contributes positively to the local built environment, maintaining the character of the surrounding area while improving housing quality. The project supports the preservation of heritage assets and demonstrates how traditional properties can be adapted to meet modern living standards.
SOCIAL VALUE
All works were delivered using Lancashire based trades and specialist subcontractors, supporting the local economy and supply chain. Locally sourced materials, including stone for repairs, further reinforced the project’s commitment to sustainability and regional investment. The scheme reflects a strong alignment with social value principles, combining heritage preservation with community focused delivery.
PROJECT COST
Total Project Value: £140,000
24 Days
Duration
£43,600
Total Cost
Lancashire
Location
Occupied
During Works
Before Gallery
After Gallery
Installation
More Projects
Located in the picturesque semi rural village of Dolphinholme, Lancaster, Corless Cottage is a Grade II listed, three storey end terrace cottage. The property, rich in historic character, required comprehensive internal and external refurbishment to meet modern living standards while preserving its heritage value.
The project was delivered in collaboration with the Duchy of Lancaster and local specialist subcontractors to ensure sensitive restoration, enhanced energy performance, and long term community benefit.
Project Duration
- Start: September 2023
- Completion & Handover: July 2025
Key Improvements Included
- Full internal and external refurbishment of the property in line with conservation requirements.
- Repointing and lime rendering to protect the original stone façade.
- Internal lime plastering to external walls and spine wall.
- Replacement kitchen and bathroom including new vinyl flooring and carpets throughout.
- Timber window and door repairs in keeping with original design.
- Electrical rewire, installation of new High Heat Retention Storage Heaters and insulated immersion hot water cylinder.
- Roof repairs, structural improvements, and energy efficient system upgrades.
- Full redecoration and cleaning to complete the transformation.
Challenges
- Semi Rural Access
With only a pedestrian footpath between Anyon Lane and Greaves Hill Lane, material delivery and waste removal required meticulous planning. - Exposed Weather Conditions
The gable end faced open farmland, exposing the structure to harsh weather during external lime rendering and pointing. - Listed Building Constraints
As a Grade II listed property, all works were subject to conservation officer approval, requiring heritage-sensitive methods and materials. - Unforeseen Structural Issues
Rotten roof timbers and failing lintels were discovered, requiring immediate specialist intervention and design modifications.
Solutions
- Logistical Coordination
In house flatbed delivery and combined waste collection minimised disruption and kept the programme on track. - Weather Protection
Installation of Monarflex sheeting over scaffolding prevented moisture ingress and enabled consistent progress on external works. - Specialist Heritage Techniques
Conservation approved subcontractors delivered sash window repairs, lime pointing, and rendering to retain historic fabric. - Collaborative Engineering Response
Long standing partnerships with structural engineers enabled rapid assessment and implementation of structural rectification, minimizing delays.
Value Added for the Community and Client
- Heritage Value
The use of traditional methods and locally sourced stone enhances the visual and historical character of the Corless Cottages row, preserving it for future generations. - Social & Economic Value
All trades, and specialist subcontractors were Lancashire based, supporting local employment and the regional supply chain. - Energy Efficiency & Comfort
The integration of modern, energy efficient heating and hot water systems ensures reduced running costs and improved comfort for future occupants. - Design Innovation
Bespoke design input ensured the heating system met energy demands efficiently, aligning with sustainability goals.
As a Company
This project reflects our commitment to
- Sustainable heritage restoration
- Community focused regeneration
- Delivering high quality, conservation led refurbishment
We work collaboratively with clients and local authorities to bring listed and historic buildings up to modern living standards without compromising their unique character.
Total Project Cost: £140,000
Before Gallery
After Gallery
