Issue 46 April 25 web - Flipbook - Page 68
The workshop, known as ‘Bertha’s Shed’, was built in the
1960s to house and maintain estate vehicles. It was constructed using modern materials and methods, isolating
it visually and physically from adjoining listed structures.
Crosby Granger Architects was asked to design, tender
and oversee the replacement of the dilapidated glasshouse
and loggia.
The Victorian glasshouse was designed, along with the
west tower, by the famous Lancaster architectural practice
Paley and Austin.
A thorough examination revealed that the workshop was
structurally sound, although adaptations were necessary
to suit the new bakery function.
The timber portion of the conservatory was replaced in
2000 using modern softwood, which had rotted making
the structure unusable.
The decayed timber bay window was thoughtfully
redesigned to incorporate a customer entrance and
improved aesthetics.
The project sought to restore the aesthetic of the original
glasshouse, as a part of the overall aesthetic of the main
front to Leighton Hall, and to add an extension at the
rear to provide discreet ancillary facilities for visiting
groups.
Historic England and the Society for the Protection of
Ancient Buildings, both consultees because of the site’s
sensitive nature, provided positive feedback.
By locally sourcing materials, the project achieves a
balance between sustainability and simplicity ensuring the
bakery sits comfortably in its surroundings and is of
appropriate quality to the wider Levens Hall Estate.
Crosby Granger Architects guided the client through the
application process for Historic England’s Grants for Programmes for Major Works Round 2.
And by solving a shortage of space in the main building,
it has allowed Levens to expand further so that it can continue to deliver the high standards of food its customers
have come to expect.
All of the existing metal work was carefully retained and
refurbished for reuse. The existing open loggia was enclosed with painted timber doors that match the existing
window style.
Like Levens, Leighton Hall is a much-loved family home
and has been the centre of an agricultural estate since medieval times. The present house was built in 1759–61 in
Georgian style and thousands of visitors come every year
to see the collection of Gillow furniture and objets d’art
and enjoy the gardens and woodland walks. It also hosts
weddings, educational visits and other events.
Slim double glazing preserved the visual integrity of the
glasshouse while significantly improving its responsiveness
to temperature fluctuations. At the same time underfloor
heating, fed by a biomass unit, improved its thermal efficiency. Existing stone flags were recorded, carefully lifted
and then reinstated once the heating system was in place.
The new extension is hidden from the front elevation of
the hall. It houses a kitchen, toilets, disabled WC and
store.
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