Location: Barwick in Elmet, near Leeds
Sector: Residential
Project Duration: One week
Project Overview
This project involved the restoration of an old outbuilding, transforming it from a tired and deteriorating structure into a practical and usable space once again. The work required a combination of roofing, structural repairs and bespoke joinery to bring the building back into good condition while retaining its original character.
The Challenge
The outbuilding was in a poor state of repair, beginning with an asbestos roof covering that needed to be safely removed and replaced. The existing structure also required significant attention, including aging timbers and sections of stonework that had deteriorated over time.
In addition to the structural issues, the existing doors were no longer fit for purpose and did not suit the style of the building. A key challenge was replacing them with something sympathetic to the original appearance, while also ensuring durability and functionality.
The Solution
The project began with the safe removal of the asbestos roof sheets, which were replaced with metal anti-condensation roofing sheets to provide a more durable and practical finish.
Structural works followed, including the replacement of internal timbers and rebuilding of sections of stonework to ensure the building was sound and weatherproof.
Existing doors were removed and replaced with bespoke, made-to-measure timber doors constructed on site by Martin in the yard. A matching glass fanlight was also created to replace the tired panel above the doorway, helping to restore the appearance of the frontage.
To maintain the character of the building, heritage-style hinges and handles were selected, ensuring the ironmongery complemented the traditional look of the new doors. Standard modern fittings would not have been appropriate for the style of the restoration.
The joinery work took approximately three days to complete, with the roofing and structural repairs taking around five days in total.
The Results
The completed works have restored the outbuilding to a usable and structurally sound space, while significantly improving both its appearance and weather resistance.
The new roof provides long-term protection, while the bespoke doors and fanlight have transformed the front elevation, bringing it back in keeping with the original character of the building.
The project demonstrates how careful restoration and bespoke joinery can breathe new life into older structures, combining practical improvements with sympathetic design.
What The Client Said
What a fantastic company — I genuinely couldn’t recommend them more highly.
Jason is a great guy and has built a brilliant team around him. Salty and Martin genuinely cared about doing a quality job, and their workmanship throughout was excellent. What also stood out was that Jason always tried to find practical ways to keep the project affordable without compromising on quality.
We are absolutely delighted with the end result and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Othick Property Services to anyone. We’d happily use them again in the future.
Daniel
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Do you need a sympathetic construction project completing at your home or outbuilding?


