A restoration project - in the heart of Hay

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Originally from New Zealand, Kirstin has lived in London for the 25+ years, apart from two years in Argentina.  She is a privacy lawyer but passionate about food, once having owned a restaurant in West London.  She was excited to discover a different side to the UK - specifically life in the countryside.

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Steffan was born and raised in Cardiff, speaks Welsh but has worked in London as a workplace designer. and is passionate about interiors.  dream to share this wonderful place with others, combining our passion for food and design.

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They purchased the cottage in 2023.  It had not been upgraded for approximately 40 years.  The restoration The restoration process involved removing a 1980s fire surround to reveal an original flagstone hearth and chimney breast.  The horsehair plastered and wood-chip wallpapered walls were stripped back, revealing stones that had been picked from the Wye riverbed and gaps that had been filled with pieces of wood and salvaged bricks.  Original beams were sandblasted to remove layers of thick black lacquer.  Oak floorboards were hand-stripped to retain their character.  Electrics and plumbing were fully modernised.  

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The result is a characterful and charming space that has been filled with much loved artwork, furniture and antiques.