In 1985 the Rector of St. Swithun’s, Sandford, near Crediton, approached the Trust for help in restoring what was known as the Old Vestry, consisting of one room with a cellar below, which was in a state of collapse with much of its roof missing. It had been part been part of the parish poorhouse, built in 1858 of local red sandstone and was listed Grade II. Both the Parochial Church Council and Mid Devon District Council, the planning authority, were in favour of its conversion into a permanent dwelling or for use as a holiday home. The Trust eventually bought the property and, in May, 1989, embarked on its restoration.
In order to maintain its original style, it was decided to retain the mullioned windows, plank doors and the flight of stone steps with plain iron spear-head railings. The basement could serve as a wine cellar or store of some kind and considerable ingenuity had to be exercised to create an attractive living area on a ground floor of about 100 square feet. By inserting an upper floor into the roof space and a roof light, it was possible to provide a bedroom accessible by a wooden spiral staircase. Work was complete in July, 1990, and a buyer found in 1991.
By its sympathetic restoration this little building (Listed Grade 11) has contributed to the quality of the Sandford conservation area as well as preserving a relic of parish history.
In order to maintain its original style, it was decided to retain the mullioned windows, plank doors and the flight of stone steps with plain iron spear-head railings. The basement could serve as a wine cellar or store of some kind and considerable ingenuity had to be exercised to create an attractive living area on a ground floor of about 100 square feet. By inserting an upper floor into the roof space and a roof light, it was possible to provide a bedroom accessible by a wooden spiral staircase. Work was complete in July, 1990, and a buyer found in 1991.
By its sympathetic restoration this little building (Listed Grade 11) has contributed to the quality of the Sandford conservation area as well as preserving a relic of parish history.