Kirby’s, Whitby. Grade II listed Renovation.

Working closely with the designer and new owner, this Grade II listed building was carefully renovated to reverse the harm caused by unsympathetic alterations made in the 1970s. Our approach placed heritage conservation and traditional craftsmanship at the heart of the project.

The building’s original character, first constructed as a purpose-built guest house, guided the scheme. During the works, historic fabric concealed behind modern materials was revealed, restoring the property’s internal significance. Alterations were carried out using a thoughtful blend of traditional building methods and sensitive modern upgrades, ensuring the property’s historic integrity was preserved while enhancing its function as a home.

Key elements of the renovation included the installation of a new kitchen and bathroom, upgraded electrics, and the addition of underfloor heating. Externally, the walls were plastered with a historically appropriate earth, hot-lime, and hemp render, replicating the building’s original finish. Internally, walls were skimmed with lime putty plaster reinforced with goat hair, then decorated with breathable Casein distemper to protect the substrate. Joinery and details were also restored, including the refurbishment of the original front door, the updating of glazing, and the fitting of new handcrafted timber window sills.

The result is a property whose original grandeur and historic character have been carefully brought back to life. This project demonstrates our expertise in listed building conservation, lime-based renders and mortars, and the sensitive restoration of heritage properties.