Rebuilding Cholderton House
09 May 2019
Restored from the brink to a family home.
Cholderton House, a large privately-owned Grade II* listed manor house, was built in 1690 and has been the home of the Cornelius-Reid family, its current owners, for 35 years.
In March 2012 a dramatic fire swept through all three floors and the roof. At the height of the fire 12 fire engines worked on the house; local roads closed for safety.
Experience and empathy
That very same day, within hours, Sarah Cox, Technical Property Claims Manager, was on site, personally looking after Mrs Cornelius-Reid.
Aware of the practical and emotional needs faced by families in such situations, essentials such as clothes, cash and a credit card were arranged with immediate effect.
The Ecclesiastical team took control arranging alternative accommodation nearby. From a place of security and comfort, Mrs Cornelius-Reid, along with her three children, were able to consider the future for Cholderton House.
Making the decision to preserve their heritage
After discussion with all parties, the decision was taken to ‘repair, reinstate and match’ Cholderton House.
- A specialist team was appointed to include:
- An architect specialising in the heritage field
- Mechanical and structural engineers
- Quantity surveyors
- And organisations such as Historic England to ensure continued Grade II* listing.
Cholderton House was now ready to undergo nearly three years of specialist restoration – one year of design and preparation, two years of restoration.
Keys to success at Cholderton House
- Valuation accuracy
- Heritage experience
- Specialist architectural appointment
- Access to skills and materials
- Client empathy
- Immediate action