Groovy Grooves in an Old Stone Hall
Residential Complex named Wool Hall undergoes extensive renovations
Hop over to Wool Hall, a historical treasure in Somerset, and you'll find more than just a charming 16th-century wool trading hub. This stone beauty has witnessed an eclectic mix of musings over the years, serving as a mecca for music giants like Tears for Fears and Van Morrison. But when Tuckey Design Studio stepped in, our worn-out pal celebrating the revolution of its past.
James Brittain captured the enchanting before and after, leaving us with a tantalizing glimpse of what lies within.
Once the grand entrance, arched doors, and rubble balustrade did little to reveal the extraordinary stories hidden within. But alas, the somber truth was nothing more than a cold, creaky building, plagued by leaks, and marred by incorrect 1980s additions. Vibrant artistic tapestry hidden beneath a mass of layers of plasterboard, tiled roofs, and fragmented masonry.
Dubbed "train-carriage-like," the rigid layout was positively stifling. So, we took the plunge and gutted it to make way for new beginnings. Breaking the monotony with an inviting central space that opens up to a living room, study, and bedrooms, we brought warmth and light. A central staircase now acts as the heart of the home, connecting spaces and creating a unified whole.
Opening up the past by ruthlessly dismantling the modern additions also serves to strengthen the bond with the history courtyard outside. Using methods such as Diathonite spray and a combination of lime and cork insulation, we respectfully preserved the stone walls' essence while drenching the interior in coziness and energy efficiency.
Sometimes the old/new blend can mean trading comfort for aesthetics. But not in this case – we challenge the status quo. Leaving surfaces uninsulated just for art's sake is, frankly, an environmental sin. Instead, our brilliant team worked tirelessly to preserve the original look and feel while dialing up the comfort and efficiency.
Indeed, from humble beginnings, Wool Hall has morphed into a masterpiece of blended eras, a testament to generations of craftsmanship, and a canvas for timeless artistry. Now, it's more than just a home, it's a journey through the ages, a tale woven in bricks, lime, and cork.
It's not all about heritage, though. This project also demanded a substantial focus on reimagining the building's heart and soul, breathing new life into every nook and cranny. From a loving gaze upon the treated concrete lintels of the remaindered modern extensions to the creative reuse of waste materials, nothing was off-limits. Not even the unsightly old roof tiles that soared above the building like domineering guardians.
But fear not, dear skeptics. Transforming the drab into dynamic has always been our bread and butter. The roof revealed its hidden beauty, and with nary a fuss, a new gable extension rose up, welcoming the old and new in harmonious unity. By embracing the unexpected, we created visual harmony between the old stone walls and new additions. And just like that, meaningless obstacles were transformed into architectural triumphs.
In a world of cookie-cutter buildings, Wool Hall stands tall as a beacon of creative designs that bring the past and present together, with sustainability - our values, after all - in mind. It's a monument to what can be achieved when we approach each project with respect and a can-do attitude, always seeking to uncover the magic beneath layers of forgotten history. And as we gaze upon the restored magnificence, we can't help but feel one thing: more please!
Credits
Architect: Tuckey Design StudioStructural Engineer: MomentumQuantity Surveyor: meaContractor: Emery Brothers
Suppliers
Fireplace: Burley, fitted by Ignis StoveFlooring: VirocWindows and doors: ReynaersCork flooring: Granorte
Terrazzo: DiespekerClaypaint: EarthbornLimepaint: Bauwerk ColourPaint on metals and timbers: TikkurilaWood wool boards: SavolitLinoleum: Forbo Flooring SystemsWood stains: Osmo UKBathroom tiles: Grestec
Drawings
- The transformation of Wool Hall, a historical stone building, not only revived its past glory but also introduced an eclectic mix of modern elements, making it a fusion of sustainability, lifestyle, and home-improvement.
- The project showcased a harmonious blend of business and environment, as the team meticulously managed waste materials and incorporated energy-efficient methods like Diathonite spray and lime and cork insulation.
- With a focus on sustainable living, the restoration of Wool Hall preserved its historical charm while modernizing its infrastructure, transforming it into a cozy and efficient home.
- In the realm of home-and-garden, Wool Hall serves as a testament to the art of blending history and contemporary design, offering a unique living experience that echoes the rich tapestry of English culture.
