15/10/2025
A stunning renovation project in the heart of Dorchester On Thames, Oxfordshire.
The existing iron railings to the front of the property (undated) were extremely damaged, along with the brick wall below.
To the untrained eye, many would fail to notice that the wall and railings had been constructed at different time periods. The front section elevation and first panel to the side walling was one period. The wall and railings at the side of the property were build at a different time period. Overall wall thickness, bricks and railings were completely different for the two periods.
It was decided that for it to be correct and in-keeping, the project would be repaired and renovated as one. Reusing the old stock bricks to the front elevation, and using new handmade bricks for the side and top courses.
Previous railings were only supported by posts that were built into the lower course of bricks. Over time, and with the deteriorating walling, the railings began to fail. Leaning back towards the house, and breaking apart over time.
It was decided that galvanised, powder coated posts would be installed completely independent of the masonry, to allow for natural expansion and contraction of the different materials involved.
With the brickwork then built between the posts, galvanised, powder coated railings were installed thereafter.
Hopefully, this wall and railings will stand the rest of time, and provide boundary protection to the stunning backdrop of the 1700’s grade 2 listed cottage.