RENOVATED AND REBORN
ATREASURED, historic farmhouse that was in need of rescuing from a future as a derelict building has been saved and totally transformed by a Welsh construction company, and the stunning result of their creativity and hard work has secured them a top prize.
Where once there was rubble, rusting fixtures and rotting wood there is now a dream home that could easily grace the pages of any glossy interiors or architectural magazine.
Carreg Construction Ltd from Haverfordwest has won a renovation award after dazzling judges with their extensive refurbishment and sensitive re-construction of a treasured Pembrokeshire building, describing the project as a “sympathetic and stunning transformation”.
Their expert work and attention to detail created a 21st-century dream home from the rundown Grade II listed farmhouse that impressed the judges enough to secure the top accolade.
The company has just picked up the award of best “Large Renovation Project” in Wales in the Federation of Master Builders’ 2021 Cymru Master Builder Awards.
The judges were particularly impressed with how the completed project provides the comfort and luxury of modern living while preserving the character and form of the historic building, which is near Narberth.
Carreg Construction reconstructed the rear gable end of the farmhouse and the two Flemish-style chimneys to the front using existing rubble walling and lime mortar, and built a new oak post and beam platform to support a new en-suite bathroom.
They also added a glazed link and conservatory that the judges said demonstrated their skill in blending both traditional artisan craft skills with modern methods and materials.
The farmhouse is a landmark building in the village of Templeton. Arguably the most distinctive feature the company brought to the renovation project is the “pod” hanging above the kitchen and housing the contemporary bathroom, although the heart of the home is always present via the attractive exposed and restored multi-toned and tactile stone walls and wood mantels.
The tasteful choice of interior design has the original features at the core, enhanced by classic statement pieces, use of high quality natural materials and accents of soft heritage shades. These elements combine to create the stylish and characterful look and atmosphere of the home.
And the company and team who worked on the project are delighted at securing the top spot.
Andrew Phillips, managing director of Carreg Construction says: “I, and the rest of the team, are obviously absolutely delighted with winning a Master Builder Award. However, this project would not have been possible without the vision and the high expectations of the client.
“This was her childhood home; renovating it to the highest of standards meant everything to her and I’m just so pleased that we did this Grade II listed building justice.”
The client described the house as “so much warmer and airier”.
Ifan Glyn, director of FMB Cymru, says: “Carreg Construction’s skilful and sympathetic transformation of this historic build into a modern home is a worthy winner of a Master Builder Award; a deserved winner of the Large Renovation Project award. After the toughest of years, I am proud of the beautiful projects that our Master Builder companies have delivered, and look forward to seeing what they have in store in time for the next awards in 2023.”