Walpole Farmhouse: Renovation & Barn Conversion Update
We are delighted to share an update on one of our most exciting current projects at Walpole Farmhouse in Stansted Mountfitchet.
The work involves a full renovation of the existing farmhouse alongside the conversion of its adjoining barn, with the aim of restoring the character of these traditional buildings whilst creating practical, comfortable spaces for modern family life. Here is how things are progressing so far.
About The Property: A Traditional Farmhouse & Courtyard Barn
Before work began, the farmhouse was a charming white painted building with a slate roof, a prominent chimney stack and traditional sash windows, its name displayed proudly on the front elevation.
Alongside it sits a U shaped range of red brick barns arranged around a central courtyard, also finished with slate roofs. While full of character, both buildings needed significant work to bring them up to modern standards.
Setting Up The Site
Our first priority was establishing a safe, well organised site. Scaffolding was erected around both the farmhouse and the barn, complete with brick guards and a loading bay, and we installed temporary fencing around the working areas.
A welfare cabin, toilet facilities and dedicated storage zones for materials such as blocks, timber and slates were set up, allowing our team to work efficiently while keeping the site tidy.
Farmhouse Renovation: Stripping Back
Inside the farmhouse, we have stripped the rooms back to their original structure. Old ceiling finishes have been removed to reveal the timber joists and laths above, and non-structural partitions have been taken back to their frames.
Adjustable steel props are currently supporting a key ceiling beam whilst alterations are made, allowing us to open up the layout safely. Exposed brickwork around the original multi pane window shows the age and character we are working to preserve.
Barn Conversion: Structure & Roofing
Across the barn range, work on the roof is well under way. Sections of the original roof coverings have been stripped back, and new breathable membrane and battens are now in place on one wing.
New roof trusses were delivered early in the project, and bricks have been stacked on the scaffold loading bay ready for repairs to the walls.
At ground level, new red brickwork has been built to form door and window openings, carefully matched to the existing walls so the alterations sit naturally within the original elevations.
Inside The Barn: Insulation & Damp Protection
Inside the barn, the transformation from agricultural building to home is starting to take shape. We have fixed new timber stud framing to the inside face of the whitewashed brick walls, which will hold insulation and plasterboard.
A new window opening has been framed out to bring in natural light and views over the grounds.
Damp proof membrane has been laid across the floors ahead of the new floor build up, and the lower sections of the walls have been treated with a black waterproof coating to protect against rising moisture.
Blending Traditional Character & Modern Living
Throughout this project, our approach is to respect the heritage of Walpole Farmhouse whilst making it work for the way people live today.
That means retaining features such as exposed brickwork, original timbers and slate roofs, whilst introducing modern insulation, improved layouts and a high quality finish throughout. Every decision is made with the long term future of these buildings in mind.
What Comes Next
With the main structural and preparation work progressing well, the next stages will include completing the roofs, installing new windows and doors, and moving on to first fix services and internal finishes.
We will be sharing further progress updates as the project takes shape, so keep an eye on our news page.