The client’s objective for this project was straightforward: to restore the house to its original 15th-century appearance in a thoroughly holistic approach, maintaining the highest standards of quality, while incorporating modern conveniences and their unique touch.
In 2010, our clients purchased this property with the aim of making it their forever home. Situated in the scenic Cotswolds, this historic manor house was originally constructed in 1424 by local stonemason for a knight who fought at Agincourt during Henry V’s reign. However, by 2010, many of its original 15th-century features had deteriorated or been removed, and the property required extensive repairs. Additionally, its mechanical and electrical systems were outdated and inadequate for modern living.
The quality of the restore was a priority, with a comprehensive approach covering everything from repairing stone structures and insulating the roof to upgrading the M&E systems throughout the property and the wider estate, which included a mix of new and existing buildings.
In addressing the M&E aspect, the clients conducted thorough research to choose a control system that met their needs. Our client was keen to use KNX for its versatility, future-ready design, energy management, open-protocol, customised hardware and controls, and ability to provide Building Management System (BMS) status updates.
Due to its Grade I Listed status, an extensive and meticulous three-year planning phase was required to ensure the property's preservation and compliance with heritage regulations. The clients were deeply committed to achieving their vision and diligently navigated through numerous listed building and planning applications to bring it to fruition.
The HVAC system is integrated with the BMS for centralized control, enabling proactive maintenance and troubleshooting. It includes underfloor heating, radiators, trench heaters, ventilation, and air conditioning. Leak detectors under each heating manifold connect to a KNX gateway, triggering predefined actions and notifications for early leak detection and response, including shutting off water valves and activating backup pumps.
The automated trench heaters provide efficient heating particularly as the rooms in the property have large windows and traditional heating methods are less effective. Ventilation in wetrooms uses Arcus KNX humidity sensors to regulate fan speed proportional to humidity levels. The extractor fan speed in each room is directly proportional to the measured humidity levels in each room, for example if the humidity is 90%, the fan runs at 90%, removing humidity from the room.
The air conditioning system was installed with consideration for the property's historical integrity, integrating into a sitewide KNX system. KNX upgrades in outbuildings ensure seamless integration with the main house.
The centralized lighting control system allows adjustments based on preferences, schedules, and environmental conditions. Meljac light switches, connected to Theben input modules, maintain aesthetic integrity, with KNX low voltage switching enabling the use of antique switches. Control is facilitated through Basalte’s Ellie touch panels and home app, providing centralized management and real-time updates. Schneider thermostats offer local temperature control in primary rooms.
