The detail
The building was taken back to its core structure where required, with floors stripped to the joists and walls to the original timber framing. Reinstatement used traditional methods: lath and lime plaster, wide oak floorboards, and handmade clay tiles. Brickwork was repaired where mortar joints had failed, and the parapet verges were finished with hand-cut coping stones. A cracked chimney pot was replaced in keeping with the original detailing.
Several timber-framed windows were more deteriorated than first anticipated and were repaired using traditional splicing techniques to retain as much of the original fabric as possible. Rotten floor joists were also discovered during the strip-out and replaced with like-for-like sections, approved by the conservation team.
All changes and reinstated elements required detailed coordination between Flint’s in-house team, the architect, and the client’s consultants. Additional works followed a clear change control process involving pricing, sign-off, and integration into the live programme. Flint drew on its trusted pool of subcontractors, many of whom work with the company regularly, to ensure a consistently high standard of workmanship.
Ambersham House is now part of Cowdray’s holiday rental offer and stands as a strong example of how listed buildings can be adapted without losing their character. The project has further strengthened Flint’s relationship with the Cowdray Estate and its consultants, reinforcing the company’s reputation in heritage building work.
This project was undertaken for the Cowdray Estate in Midhurst, Website – cowdray.co.uk/stay Email – stay@cowdray.co.uk
Architecture: Pritchard Architecture – pritchardarchitecture.co.uk
Photography: Courtesy of Cowdray Estate.
