Victorian Stable Restoration

Set within a conservation area on the Yorkshire coast, this remarkable project is a masterclass in sympathetic restoration. What was once a derelict 19th-century stable block has been carefully reimagined into a refined, three-bedroom home, where heritage, craftsmanship and considered design sit in quiet harmony.

This project is a compelling example of how period properties can be thoughtfully restored without losing their soul. By prioritising original materials, craftsmanship and timeless design choices the home achieves a rare balance between heritage and modern comfort.

Originally built in 1897 as the stables and tack room for the village Manor House, the building had fallen into disrepair. When Joe Healey first visited in 2023, it existed as little more than a shell.

While many would have chosen to demolish and rebuild, Joe Healey took a more thoughtful approach, restoring rather than replacing. The result is a home that feels entirely rooted in its past yet effortlessly suited to modern living.

A defining feature of the home is the inclusion of a freestanding cast iron bath, a deliberate and considered choice. The result is both practical and visually compelling.

I desperately wanted a cast iron bath. It fits perfectly with the aesthetic of the house but with limited space the bath was ultimately positioned within the main bedroom, which looks amazing. It has elevated the space and created a striking focal point.

Every aspect of the layout was meticulously considered. Natural materials play a central role throughout, with a focus on texture, tactility and longevity. Living brass showers and taps have been used throughout, chosen for their ability to age gracefully and develop character over time. In Joe’s walk-in shower, a reeded glass screen enhances both privacy and light, helping to open up the space while maintaining a sense of refinement.

The main bathroom features a classic pedestal basin paired with a matching toilet and brass lever details, creating a cohesive, traditional feel. In contrast, Joe’s ensuite introduces a more individual touch, with a slate grey RossaStone® basin set atop an upcycled vanity, adding depth and personality to the space.

Natural slate flooring runs throughout, bringing texture and a rich, layered aesthetic that feels both grounded and sophisticated. Sliding solid oak internal doors further enhance the sense of space, enabling a more fluid, considered layout while subtly referencing the building’s heritage as former stables.

This project is a compelling example of how period properties can be thoughtfully restored without losing their soul. By prioritising original materials, craftsmanship and timeless design choices the home achieves a rare balance between heritage and modern comfort.