Set within a once-overgrown walled garden beside the River Avon, and just a stone’s throw from Standlynch Mill, Trafalgar Garden Cottage has found a new chapter in its long history. Once part of the Grade I listed Trafalgar House estate, this charming building had stood neglected for years. Now, as part of a wider project to reinvigorate the historic garden with flower cultivation and renewed life, the cottage has been carefully restored and extended—and Salisbury Joinery is proud to have played a key role in its transformation.
The rejuvenation of the cottage began with essential structural upgrades. Long-term neglect had taken its toll, and a new internal structural frame was inserted to bring the building back to stability and to significantly improve its thermal performance. With this solid foundation, the interior was thoughtfully reconfigured—most notably by inserting a new floor in a previously single-storey section, allowing for the creation of a generous master bedroom with peaceful views into the enclosed garden.
This was a restoration rooted in respect for the past, with every decision shaped by a desire to preserve and enhance the cottage’s historic character.
At Salisbury Joinery, we approach every project with a deep respect for traditional methods, exceptional materials, and a belief that true craftsmanship speaks for itself. Trafalgar Garden Cottage provided the perfect canvas for our bespoke timber joinery, blending heritage aesthetics with performance and precision.
We supplied three bespoke windows for the project, handcrafted from sustainably sourced sapele, known for its durability, fine grain, and rich colour. Each window was custom-made to fit its opening perfectly, ensuring not only a seamless visual result but also excellent performance in terms of insulation and longevity.
The windows featured ovolo mould detailing, a classic profile that speaks to the architectural language of traditional English cottages. Our team of skilled joiners shaped each moulding by hand with care and consistency, creating subtle shadows and depth that catch the light beautifully.
Complementing the joinery, we specified high-quality ironmongery: satin stainless steel ball bearing hinges for strength and smooth operation, and satin chrome bulb-end casement stays, chosen both for their functionality and their timeless appearance.
The cottage’s entrance door became a standout piece in the overall scheme. Also made from sapele, it was painted in RAL 5014 ‘Pigeon Blue’, a soft heritage tone that immediately evokes warmth and elegance. The door features our ovolo TGV bead & butt moulding, a traditional detail often found in historic rural properties—bringing a sense of authenticity and time-worn charm.
Hardware included a slimline Newbury espagnolette handle and matching letter plate, offering a clean yet classic finish. These elements are more than just fittings—they complete the narrative of the building, helping it sit gracefully within its historic setting while offering modern reliability and security.
We were thrilled to see the Trafalgar Garden Cottage project receive recognition at the Salisbury Civic Society’s Conservation Awards 2024, where it was awarded a Commendation for its sensitive and skilful restoration. It’s always rewarding to see traditional craftsmanship celebrated, especially in a setting as historically rich as this.
This recognition also reflects the vision and careful stewardship of Barclay + Phillips Architects, who led the project with a respectful and creative approach to adapting and enhancing the site. Their thoughtful design work ensured that the historic charm of the cottage was preserved while allowing it to meet modern standards of comfort and function.
The restoration of Trafalgar Garden Cottage is a celebration of what’s possible when historical sensitivity, design excellence, and skilled craftsmanship come together. The cottage, once overlooked, is now a proud and integral part of a vibrant walled garden project—a peaceful home grounded in centuries of heritage.
At Salisbury Joinery, we’re honoured to have contributed to its revival. Projects like these remind us why we do what we do: to create beautiful, lasting joinery that stands the test of time—crafted not just to look right, but to feel right.