Ty Hir
Set in the countryside just outside St. Dogmaels, this traditional farmhouse required a complete internal transformation. The layout was disjointed and outdated, offering little flow or functionality for modern family living. Our brief was to rework the interior entirely — opening up the space, enhancing light and movement, and creating a warm, cohesive home tailored to the needs of a growing young family.
BUILT: 2022
ARCHITECT: Frog Architects
PHOTOGRAPHY: Behind the Lens
QUALITY WORKMANSHIP
BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED
Nestled in the heart of the Welsh countryside, the house had potential—its thick stone walls and original timber beams were full of character—but it was dated and cramped inside. The layout, although functional for its time, no longer met the needs of a busy, growing family.
The design brief was clear from the outset: to create a more open, fluid, and connected living space that could grow with the evolving needs of a young family. The existing layout, though full of charm, was fragmented and restrictive — with little natural flow between key living areas. Achieving the vision meant a complete reconfiguration of the interior, carefully opening up spaces while maintaining character, improving natural light, and introducing subtle transitions between zones. The goal was to make the home feel cohesive, welcoming, and inherently practical — a place that could adapt to the rhythm of modern family life.
Challenging build, requiring not only technical skill but also patience and a creative approach.
Challenges & approach
This renovation was as much about restraint as it was about intervention. Working with a structure steeped in history meant balancing modern performance upgrades with respect for the original detailing. The existing stone walls, inconsistent floor levels, and restricted headroom demanded precise planning and thoughtful design decisions.
Rather than fighting against the building’s character, we leaned into it — retaining and exposing original elements where possible, while making strategic alterations to improve layout, comfort, and energy performance. Our team worked closely with both architect and client throughout, ensuring every decision aligned with the project’s values: simplicity, honesty, and quality.
Key Finishes & Features
- Carefully restored exposed stonework paired with natural lime plaster
- New engineered timber flooring laid seamlessly across split levels
- Bespoke joinery elements, including under-stair storage and feature shelving
- Upgraded insulation and air tightness throughout, subtly integrated
- Underfloor heating paired with a traditional-style woodburner for dual functionality
- Handmade oak staircase to replace the original, maintaining traditional proportions
Timeline & Delivery
The project was delivered over a twelve -month period, with a rolling programme that allowed structural works, first fix, and finishing to be completed efficiently despite the site’s challenges. Careful coordination of trades was essential — particularly when introducing new mechanical services into such an old fabric. Regular on-site reviews with the client and architect ensured key design decisions were made quickly and with full visibility.
Outcome
The completed home feels settled, comfortable, and honest. There’s no attempt to hide the building’s age — in fact, its imperfections are celebrated. But behind the traditional façade lies a home designed for modern family life. Everything from the insulation and lighting to the layout and finishes has been carefully considered. The flow is calm and open, the atmosphere is warm and grounded, and the craftsmanship throughout reflects care and precision. It’s a space that feels lived-in from day one — robust enough for real life, refined enough to feel special, and built to last for generations.
“Adref helped us through a top to bottom house renovation and they were great! From initial meeting with Luke at the planning stage through to completion of the job we were very happy with it all. Adrefs team have been fantastic – courteous, hardworking, clean and professional. We felt informed and in control throughout the process and we are really pleased with the quality of work and finish applied to the job.”
Mr & Mrs Snow
