Vaugh Steel

Nestling amongst a pocket of trees on a windswept fell, untouched in almost a century and lacking even the most basic utilities, this sensitively executed renovation and conversion project epitomises all that is wonderful about architecture in Lakeland. Our work involved the careful restoration of an existing 17th C. Farmhouse using traditional materials and processes coupled with a striking contemporary low carbon conversion of an adjacent 19th C. Barn and 17th C. Byre. Sustainable and predominantly locally sourced Cumbrian materials were used throughout and complimented by high quality new materials including hemp:lime internal insulation and the selective use of renewable technology to enable the completed home to be completely ‘off-grid’.

Three original buildings are combined at varying levels to create a series of internal spaces that vary from the dramatic to the intimate. Externally, the collection retains a timeless feel despite the incorporation of modern rainwater harvesting plant, PV-T solar panels and a 15m high 6kw wind turbine. Although of traditional construction and over 375m2 in area, our completed scheme only produces half the CO2/yr of the uk average house. The project therefore sparked interest from the wider community with experiences shared via regular site visits from university students and green build groups complimented by a weekly online blog.

With formerly derelict buildings now restored and reinvigorated, we hope Vaugh Steel is guilty of acknowledging a happy architectural marriage of both function and delight. The former in the integration of 21st C. technology within renovated historical building envelopes to create a warm low carbon shelter from the storm. The latter clearly evident in the Lakeland light that continues to refract through openings both ancient and new to reveal the beauty of the wood, stone, steel and plaster within – again, some ancient and some new.

Photo credits: Matthew Nichol