Embracing the Past: A Lime Plaster Project in Bollington
In the heart of Bollington, a small town rich in history and character, we recently undertook a unique lime plastering project that beautifully combines traditional techniques with the preservation of historical elements. The project took place in a building believed to be a former court, a structure that tells a story through its every stone and timber.
The Vision
The client's vision was clear: they wanted to retain the authentic charm of the building while ensuring its durability and aesthetic appeal. A key feature was the exposed timber lintel, which we believe is made of pitch pine. This timber, along with other elements of the building’s fabric, needed to be highlighted, celebrating the history embedded within the walls.
The Technique
To achieve this, we chose to work with traditional lime plaster, a material known for its breathability and compatibility with historic buildings. The process was meticulous, involving three coats to ensure a durable and beautiful finish:
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Scratch Coat: The initial layer, composed of quicklime slaked on site and mixed with coarse sand, was applied to provide a solid base. This coat was scored to create a rough texture, allowing the subsequent layers to adhere properly.
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Float Coat: The second layer, also a mixture of lime and sand, was applied over the scratch coat. This coat was floated to create an even and level surface, filling in any imperfections and preparing the wall for the final skim.
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Skim Coat: The final layer was a fine mix of lime putty and pit sand. This skim coat provided a smooth and attractive finish, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the plaster while maintaining its breathability.
The Result
The result is a stunning blend of old and new, where the plaster complements the exposed stone and timber, allowing the historical elements of the building to shine through. The curved finish around the window and the timber lintel creates a sense of continuity, making it seem as though the wall has always been this way.
Why Lime Plaster?
Lime plaster is not just an aesthetic choice but a practical one. Its natural properties allow moisture to evaporate, preventing damage that could be caused by trapped dampness. This makes it particularly suitable for older buildings, where maintaining the structural integrity is as important as preserving the visual appeal.
Conclusion
This project in Bollington is a testament to the beauty and effectiveness of traditional lime plastering techniques. By respecting the historical elements of the building and using materials and methods that have stood the test of time, we were able to deliver a result that is both functional and visually striking. The former court building now stands as a proud reminder of Bollington's rich heritage, ready to be admired for many years to come.
View the project at https://www.instagram.com/p/C5jcXQLM3ai/
