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

1. Semi Rural Access
   With only a pedestrian footpath between Anyon Lane and Greaves Hill Lane, material delivery and waste removal required meticulous planning.
2. Exposed Weather Conditions
   The gable end faced open farmland, exposing the structure to harsh weather during external lime rendering and pointing.
3. Listed Building Constraints
   As a Grade II listed property, all works were subject to conservation officer approval, requiring heritage-sensitive methods and materials.
4. 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