Mappowder

This Grade II* Listed Manor House commands a perfect setting deep in the Dorset Countryside. The site dates from Roman times, or possibly earlier still and has undergone multiple re-constructions, containing elements from the Medieval, Jacobean, mid Georgian, Victorian and 20thC periods.

Previous owners had made only cosmetic repairs and ill-conceived alterations. We embarked on an extensive remodelling and repair programme which completed in 2018.

We carried out a comprehensive structural repair programme as sadly, Deathwatch beetle had been active – but ignored – for many years. A number of the gigantic principle beams which span between the main walls had been eaten – from inside out – and are now virtually shells, the inner core having been converted to dust. Rather than replacing the beams in their entirety, the remaining ‘shell’ acted as a formwork for a brand new core of epoxy resin and re-enforcing bars.  This technique preserves as much of the original timber as possible, whilst reinvigorating structural capacity.

Much of the work involved removing 20th century partitioning and finishes, with the aim to reveal the plan-form of the mid 18th century re-modelling.  As always, the challenge was to provide ‘inconvenient’ modern necessities such as bathrooms and dressing space, without compromising the integrity of the original plan. We hope we have succeeded.  The house feels as though it has been released and is breathing again. Inside now there is logic to the plan, there are views where previously there were none, there is natural light, there is uncluttered space, symmetry and proportion but there are also generous bathrooms, closets, WCs and airing cupboards, all tucked away but exactly where they are needed.

Build: Perry and Son Ltd