Blending Tradition and Modernity: 1700s Cottage Renovation with Oak Doors

When Beverley and her husband purchased their cottage in 1985, they embarked on a long and rewarding renovation journey. Over the years, they have built three extensions and a porch, remodelling the first floor and undertaking most of the work themselves, including the brickwork. Their primary goal throughout the project has been to maintain the style of the original 1700s building while creating a lighter, brighter feel in the most recent addition.

Key Takeaways

Maintaining the Original Style

Throughout their renovation project, Beverley and her husband have strived to keep everything in the same style as the original 1700s building. The old cottage, as expected, is quite dark, so their latest work has focused on making the most recent addition lighter and brighter. This is where the solid oak doors from UK Oak Doors played a key role.

The couple kept the oak natural and used a crystal clear, matte outdoor varnish that did not change the colour but protected the doors from sticky finger-marks. The result is a seamless transition between the older and newer parts of the home, with the doors looking traditional yet adding a slightly more modern feel at an affordable price.

Creating Functional Spaces

One of the most significant transformations in the cottage was the creation of a new, functional utility room just off the kitchen. The couple used a solid oak rustic ledge and brace door to separate this space, maintaining the traditional look while providing a practical solution for their needs.

Another area that underwent a major change was the old bathroom off the landing, which was replaced with a new one featuring an oak door from UK Oak Doors. The combination of the rustic door and the lighter, brighter decor creates an inviting space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the cottage.

Innovative Solutions

The downstairs loo, which used to be the way into the back of the house, presented a unique challenge. Beverley and her husband used the widest oak door from UK Oak Doors on rollers and added a strip of matching oak down each side on the inside for privacy. This innovative solution worked very well, demonstrating the versatility of the doors and the couple's creativity in adapting them to their needs.

When installing oak doors, it's essential to use the right hardware to complete the look and ensure smooth operation. While Beverley and her husband did not use hinges from UK Oak Doors, we recommend the following options for a perfect fit:

• Ironmongery Value Pack 18



• Pewter Value Pack 15

• Maintenance Wax for Hand-Forged Ironmongery

For those interested in sliding door solutions, UK Oak Doors will soon be offering sliding door kits to help you achieve a similar look to Beverley's downstairs loo.

A Successful Renovation

Beverley and her husband's cottage renovation is a testament to their dedication, skill, and eye for design. By incorporating solid oak doors from UK Oak Doors, they have successfully blended tradition and modernity, creating a home that is both functional and beautiful. The doors have played a crucial role in tying together the various elements of the cottage, from the original 1700s structure to the newer, lighter additions.

If you're considering a renovation project or simply looking to update your interior doors, take inspiration from Beverley's story and explore the wide range of oak doors available at UK Oak Doors. With a variety of styles and customisation options, you're sure to find the perfect doors to suit your home and personal taste.

From ledged and braced doors to Victorian and cottage styles, we offer a wide range of options to help you achieve your desired look. Browse our collection today and discover the perfect doors to elevate your home's interior.