Locally constructed, traditional structures are referred to as vernacular. Usually, Architects do not design them or build them from affluent clients. Originally, the great majority of homes and workplaces were built out of Vernacular Architecture. Usually, indigenous materials are used to construct the buildings. Depending on what was readily accessible locally and inexpensive to employ, they differ in construction across the United Kingdom. A lot of these structures are now valued highly and may fetch significant prices on the real estate market, which contrasts with their humbler beginnings.
United Kingdom’s Vernacular Buildings
In the centre of Ledbury (Herefordshire), next to the church, stands a 15th-century structure known as the Old Grammar School. Originally, it served as a master’s dwelling and a classroom. A portion of its funding came from the Holy Trinity Chantry. Together with the school, the Chantry was closed in 1547 as part of the Dissolution. During his reign (1547-1553), it was again renamed and re-endowed as the King Edward VI Grammar School. In about 1860, the institution ultimately closed. Given that its layout deviates from the typical residential plan, it could have started as a public space. Later on, the structure served as the grammar school for the town, with the schoolmaster residing at one end. The West Midlands’ timber-framed structures are known for their box framing. The ground level overhangs the ground floor along the front of the structure. This feature called a jetty, is common in many timber-framed houses, mostly found in towns and some rural regions too.
Preside over by a massive original chimney, the Smoke Bay features an exhibit that chronicles the history of the grammar school since its relocation in the late 16th century, together with meticulously crafted costumes that allow pupils of the 21st century to enact the historical events. Ledbury Places, an organization that finds sustainable uses for historically significant buildings that are at risk, preserved the entire structure.
The early 17th century saw the construction of Low Park. This is an illustration of the kind of stone construction known as a bastle house, which may be found in both England and Scotland. To shield farmers and their livestock from border raids regularly, bastle homes were constructed. The farmer and his family would live above the cow shed, also called a byre, which would be located on the ground level. Usually, the byre had ventilation slits instead of windows for security. Local sandstone was used in their construction, and bigger stones known as quoins were placed on the corners to add strength and fire resistance. Following the end of border raids, these structures were abandoned or converted into farmhouses.
The ancient Low Nest building in Alston Moor has a lot of intriguing details. Although the date stone over the porch entrance says 1700, it could have been built as early as 1611. The porch on the east side of the structure is assumed to have been the original entry to the house, nevertheless, the porch itself is early, as evidenced by the stone shelf and small window. Overlooking the undercroft below is the primary living space of the home. On the south side of the house, a barn was built, however, we are unsure of the approximate date of construction. The majority of the self-catering unit is now in the barn, while one of the en-suite bedrooms is located beneath the main house and above the previously stated cellar. There is an antique stove in this space, suggesting that it was formerly a kitchen.
The Yeoman’s house is a timber-framed, thatched dwelling with jettied overhangs that date back to the 15th century. A ‘ herringbone’ pattern of brick fills in the middle part, which was once a two-story hall. An acre of land surrounds this unusual Grade II listed medieval hall, located in the West Sussex town of Bignor. The Yeoman’s house, which still has its original vaulted ceilings and exquisite woodwork, is a distinctive and charming getaway for a family or group of friends. Once inside, the downstairs toilet and cloakroom are located in the hallway. Beyond this, a bright dining area with views of the garden and more comfortable seats. This leads to the large living room with its typical exposed timberwork and massive main inglenook fireplace.
After a busy day, kick back on the comfortable couches and enjoy a quiet evening in. There is a little study behind the sitting area that is ideal for working from home or reading in peace. The sleek, modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, in stark contrast to the house’s antiquity, has everything the group needs to whip up substantial meals that the whole family can savour in the dining room. The vaulted bedrooms are located upstairs, together with a twin room, a second twin bedroom with a mezzanine TV space, and the master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and spectacular antique chimney breast. The staircase is made of oak.
Reference list:
Domestic 1: Vernacular Houses Listing Selection Guide.
“History of Low Nest Barn | Former Bastle House near Alston.” Www.lownest.co.uk, www.lownest.co.uk/history. Accessed 31 Mar. 2024.
Institute of Historic Building Conservation. “A Guide to Traditional English Buildings.” www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/A_Guide_to_Traditional_English_Buildings
“Old Grammar School, Church Lane, Ledbury, Herefordshire | Educational Images | Historic England.” Historicengland.org.uk, historicengland.org.uk/services-skills/education/educational-images/old-grammar-school-church-lane-ledbury-8478. Accessed 27 Mar. 2024.
“The Yeoman’s House.” Sykes Cottages, www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Sussex-Bignor/The-Yeomans-House-989001.html. Accessed 31 Mar. 2024.
