How we turned a cottage in Ilkley into a modern sustainable home

Project Overview

Hollin Nook Cottage involved the extension, modernisation and full reconfiguration of an existing cottage in Ilkley, creating a more practical, comfortable and energy-efficient family home.

The project reworked the property from top to bottom, improving the internal layout while carefully upgrading the external fabric so the new work felt settled and sympathetic to the original cottage.

Internal Reconfiguration

The interior was completely reconfigured to better suit modern family life. A new open-plan kitchen forms the heart of the home, supported by underfloor heating, new bathrooms throughout and improved natural light across the upper floors.

Large windows and roof lights were introduced to bring more daylight into the bedrooms, helping the cottage feel brighter, more open and better connected to its surroundings.

External Detailing

A key part of the project was ensuring the extension tied in seamlessly with the existing building. Reconstituted stone was carefully selected to match the original masonry in tone, texture and coursing, creating a natural continuation between old and new.

The stone slate roof was lifted, checked and relaid, with new leadwork added for long-term performance. Every elevation was also repointed with tight, consistent joints, improving weathering while giving the masonry a sharper, more refined finish.

New agate-grey uPVC windows were installed within crisp reveals, providing a clean, durable finish that complements the traditional character of the cottage.

Energy Performance

The modernisation also included a strong focus on energy efficiency. Solar panels now generate electricity on site, while an air source heat pump provides efficient heating and hot water.

Together, these measures help reduce the home’s carbon footprint and support more predictable running costs throughout the year.

Final Outcome

Hollin Nook Cottage is a carefully modernised family home that balances comfort, performance and character.

The completed project improves the way the property works day to day, while retaining the quiet details that make the original cottage feel established within its setting.

Build your dream site
Excellence in Domestic and
Passive House Construction
Contact Us
Get In Touch
Get in touch