The Brief
Killerton House is a Grade II* listed Georgian mansion built in 1778 for the Acland family and is renowned for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings and extensive fashion collection. The National Trust sought to enhance the visitor experience by creating a new café and toilet facilities, while also refurbishing the existing retail space.
A key requirement of the project was to preserve and respect the historic character of the estate. Listed building consent stipulated that original structures and features had to remain intact, requiring careful planning and innovative construction solutions throughout.
Our Work
The existing toilet facilities within the Old Dairy were transformed into a welcoming new café for visitors.
The conversion involved significant structural reconfiguration, including the installation of new roof trusses, upgraded insulation and a complete café fit-out. Every aspect of the design and construction was carefully considered to complement the historic nature of the building while delivering a modern, functional space.
New Visitor Toilets
The estate's former thatched gardener's shed was converted into new visitor toilet facilities.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was meeting the conditions of the listed building consent. The original structure had to remain untouched, meaning the new toilet facilities were effectively constructed as a "building within a building." The new internal structure was designed and built without making contact with the original external walls, preserving the integrity of the historic fabric.
While technically demanding, this approach created a striking contrast between the old and new elements, showcasing the heritage of the building alongside contemporary construction.
Shop Refurbishment
The existing shop was fully stripped out and refurbished to create a refreshed retail environment.
Existing shelving and display units were carefully restored and spray-finished, giving them a new lease of life while reducing waste and maintaining character. These were complemented by bespoke joinery installations and a full redecoration throughout.
Following the removal of existing carpets, extensive repairs and restoration work were undertaken to reveal and reinstate the original feature flooring, further enhancing the heritage appeal of the space.
Accessibility & Finishing Features
To improve accessibility and visitor experience across the estate, the project also included:
- Heritage-sensitive finishing details across all refurbished spaces
- Installation of a new stairlift
- Construction of two new staircases
- Installation of feature lighting throughout key areas
The Outcome
The completed project has transformed the visitor facilities at Killerton House while preserving the character and significance of this important National Trust property.
The new Old Dairy Café provides a welcoming destination for visitors, while the upgraded toilet facilities offer improved comfort and accessibility. The refurbished shop creates a brighter, more engaging retail experience, successfully blending restored original features with bespoke contemporary elements.
By carefully balancing conservation requirements with modern functionality, Project Management & Building Etc delivered a high-quality refurbishment that respects the estate's heritage while enhancing its future as a destination for visitors to enjoy for years to come.
