This project was awarded to TIR Construction following the standard of work that had previously been completed on the same grounds for Bwlch Mwlchan, that was shortlisted as part of the Federation of Master Builder’s Builder of Year Awards (please see the additional case study following this one).

Hen Dy Hafod Y Llan is a traditional 4 bedroom farmhouse that had fallen in to a state of disrepair. TIR applied traditional building techniques to salvage as many original features as possible, and produced bespoke items by in-house skilled carpenters such as staircases and doors that were exact replicas of the original items.The original cast iron fireplace/stove was retained and refurbished.

• Any items moved or removed were fully documented with photographs, in order to record their original position as well as for use as a point of reference for any refurbishment/replacement work.

• TIR discussed each item closely with the architect as well as National Trust representatives, in order to ensure that full permission and consultation when removing any original features.

• The overarching priority at all times is to retain and restore original items and materials where possible, rather than replacing with replicas, in order to maintain the original complexion of the building.

• Any replicas installed are always recreated with like-for-like detail of the original.

• All items are replaced by skilled craftsmen, taking care to refer to original documentation images for placement guidance.

• All items, whether replicas or refurbishments, are treated as appropriate in order to ensure their longevity.

All rendering was in lime mortar, and ceilings were put back as original with tongue and grove boarding.

The National Trust is letting the property out as a holiday let. To avoid radiators showing, under floor heating was installed with the original slate floor reinstated.

Due to bats roosting in the attic space, extra considerations were required for this project. TIR Cooperated with Ecology Services UK Ltd and the National Trust in order to agree on an appropriate method for undertaking the work. In order to ensure the full project could be completed on time, TIR commenced work on site two months ahead of the original schedule, in order to ensure that the required tasks in the attic space were completed before the commencement of the maternity colony forming season of the bats (March-September), during which it would not be possible to disrupt the attic space at all.