Henbury Cottage

Henbury Cottage is a grade II listed building in Southgate, Gower - which had been left derelict for 50 years. Built around 1760, the building is a rare surviving example of a small 18th century vernacular cottage which still has its early form and detail. The renovation work included repair of stonework, rebuilding the chimney stack, reinstating timber framed casement windows, lime rendering inside and out, - and re-roofing with reclaimed Welsh slate tiles. An original inglenook fireplace with bread oven, and a stone staircase that had been encased in concrete – were both restored.
The project demonstrates an innovative approach - involving local residents working together to restore, transform and save the building by identifying a sustainable, commercial end-use for the property, and a smart arrangement to get the work done. kPa Consulting Engineers wanted a base in the village and offered to provide design and project management services free-of-charge if the property owners invested in its refurbishment. The local community showed great interest and many offered practical support and help.
On completion of the project, kPa held a community open day with over 300 local people visiting, including an elderly relative of the property’s last residents - who shared stories about life in the cottage.
The judges said this is an outstanding project and commented that although its impact is local and its public benefit limited, the cottage is highly significant for its locality.