Architecture Wednesday: Small Church To Cozy Cottage

Yeah, I know … another church conversion. But, as you can see this isn’t some massive church turned into a home that looks like a church; it’s a country church turned into a chic little cottage. I love it because it’s church outside and cool inside, with just enough refurbishment to retain that religious charm, with a wink and a nod to something more fun.

The original windows of the nineteenth century building have been reopened, framing dramatic views of the dales in this spacious and luxurious cottage for seven guests. It has a large, fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room, four comfortable bedrooms, two en-suites and family bathroom.

The existing building was in a state of disrepair and had been vacant for many years, but the aim of the project was to bring it back to life and enable visitors to appreciate the history and local architecture while providing a beautiful environment to relax and entertain. But before any renovations could take place, the water damage resulting from strong winds and driving rain needed to be resolved; most of the interior finishes had been damaged and the main roof had deteriorated badly with many rafters requiring replacement. So, the damaged roof was replaced and the windows and doors were boarded over to prevent further water damage. Once this had been completed the project team evaluated the space to establish the type of home this could become.

A new mezzanine floor allowed for a kitchen, dining area, living room, bathroom and fourth bedroom on the ground floor and the addition of three bedrooms on the mezzanine floor. The main hall, the core element that gives the Chapel its feel of space, became the soul of the design, but as the heart of any home, the kitchen and dining space was intended to be open and bright, taking advantage of the Gothic windows and the beautiful views of the surround landscape. The aim was to keep a traditional feel by retaining the roof trusses and the cabinetry was designed to keep a homely rural feel, framed by the feature wall tiles.

Located in the very heart of the Upper Teesdale, the Chapel is a perfect location for unforgettable holidays spent walking, cycling, climbing, fishing or just relaxing with a book and a glass of wine in front of the log burner.

It’s almost a religious setting, don’t you think?

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