More 4 – series 2, episode 7.

A masterclass in restoration: our team’s transformation of a 160-year-old coach house

At Early Birds, we recently had the privilege of showcasing our expertise on The Great British Home Restoration. This project saw us tackle a Grade II listed coach house in Kent, a historic gem in desperate need of saving. Led by our Managing Director Stuart Benjamin, we embarked on the challenging journey of transforming this 19th-century structure into a modern, sustainable family home, all while preserving its heritage.

This article walks you through the intricacies of the project, from the complexities we faced to how we worked closely with the client to create a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern sustainability.

The Project and the Client

This project was centered around a coach house from the 1860s. Originally part of a larger estate, it served to stable horses, house the coachman’s family, and store carriages. Lucy, the owner, bought the property in the early 2000s with the dream of turning it into a family home. However, securing the necessary planning permission for this Grade II listed building was no small feat, and Lucy faced years of delays before we could finally begin work.

Lucy had a clear vision: she wanted to restore the structure’s integrity, retain its character, and modernise it for 21st-century living. Sustainability was key, and she wanted to integrate renewable energy sources to ensure the home was eco-friendly.

The Challenges

Restoring any Grade II listed building comes with its own set of challenges, and this coach house was no exception. The building had stood for over 160 years, and we found its walls brittle, the roof unstable, and the foundations failing.

Our first hurdle was reinforcing the walls without compromising the original brickwork. Instead of a full structural replacement, we installed steel support columns within the walls. This technique ensured the building’s stability while keeping the original bricks and beams intact. Additionally, we addressed the foundation issues by digging new foundation trenches and pouring concrete support under the structure—a delicate, labour-intensive task to preserve the building’s fragile integrity.

Modernising a Historic Space

Externally, the coach house had to retain its 19th-century charm, but Lucy’s vision for the interior was modern and open-plan. The transformation was most evident in the conversion of the stable block into a bright kitchen-dining area and a master bedroom suite.

Sustainability played a crucial role in the design. We integrated solar roof tiles, blending them seamlessly with the original roof to generate electricity without disrupting the historic aesthetic. We also installed an air-source heat pump to provide renewable heating and hot water, moving away from the previous fossil-fuel system.

Overcoming Design and Space Constraints

The interior layout presented its own challenges. The low beams, irregular walls, and compact spaces required careful planning. For instance, the once-dark carriage house became a light-filled kitchen with large patio doors behind the original coach doors, blending old-world charm with modern design.

The snug living room, converted from the stable block, retained its historical features like exposed beams, while the upstairs quarters were transformed into cosy bedrooms, keeping the original windows and beams intact.

Attention to Detail and Craftsmanship

Throughout the project, our team’s attention to detail was paramount. We restored original features like the coach doors, stripping layers of paint and restoring them using traditional techniques, such as gas blowtorching and sandblasting, to reveal their former glory.

Inside, we carefully matched modern materials with period elements. From the tiles in the ensuite to the geometric flooring in the kitchen, every design decision paid homage to the building’s history while meeting Lucy’s modern needs.

A Vision Brought to Life

After over a year of hard work, we brought Lucy’s vision to life. The result is a stunning blend of historic charm and modern innovation, with the 19th-century coach house now standing as a sustainable family home. We’re proud to have preserved its heritage while incorporating cutting-edge, eco-friendly technology.

This project showcased our team’s ability to manage complex restorations while balancing structural integrity with the demands of modern living. The coach house is now a testament to our dedication, craftsmanship, and commitment to sustainability.

Final Thoughts

At Early Birds, we’re so grateful for the opportunity to work on projects that allow us to honour history while introducing modern touches. The transformation of this 160-year-old coach house, as featured on The Great British Home Restoration, was a privilege to be part of. From reinforcing the delicate structure to integrating sustainable technologies, it’s projects like this that inspire us and remind us of the meaningful work we get to do. We’re proud to have played a role in bringing this historic home back to life.