Cornice and lime plaster repair work to a renovation project in wintry North Yorkshire

It's not the best time of year for us to be battling our way from Northallerton over into the Yorkshire Dales for lime plaster repair! But, for this Grade II listed farmhouse that's undergoing a complete renovation we have braved snow, ice and minus 10 degrees. Our part in the project is well underway, despite some extremely cold days. It's a good job our craftsman are a hardy lot and ready for a challenge.

Since we started in January, 3 coat lime haired plaster has been applied onto masonry, and lath and plaster ceilings are being repaired. From two small sections of salvaged original cornice, we have made running moulds that we have used to manufacture new lengths of cornice. These are being reinstated to various rooms, either by being run in situ or bench-run here in the workshop.

The owner has been working closely with a conservation officer. We want to ensure that all methods and materials used within the renovation are sympathetic with the 19th century, when this house was built. Our work over the years with organisations like English Heritage and the National Trust has given us a wealth of knowledge and experience so we are adept at carrying out authentic restorations of original work. Watch this space to see how this interesting project continues over the coming weeks...