Our House: Linthwaite cottage was Sophie Iredale’s dream development

Jan 19 2010 by Emma Davison, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

She said: “As the ceilings were taken down we found some beautiful ornate beams. In the vaulted cellar I also uncovered a lovely big stone table under some rubbish which I imagine would have been used when meat was stored down there years ago.

“My best find was the original inglenook fireplace in the living room which had been completely blocked off with an electric fire put in front of it.

“When we ripped off the plaster we found this fantastic big stone fireplace. It was covered in thick black bitumen paint, but when we got all that off it was like uncovering treasure!”

It took a year to complete the project, with Sophie quitting her job working for a BMW garage so she could dedicate all her time to transforming the house.

“It was such a challenge I wanted to work on it full-time,’’ she said.

“We lived in one room the whole time which was difficult when we had to spend a couple of days without running water.”

The property’s crumbling outbuildings were demolished to make way for a garage – and the couple had a spacious master bedroom built on top of it.

The interior also received a big overhaul with the dated kitchen and dining room knocked through to create one great entertaining space.

All of the rooms were given a design overhaul with Sophie keen to inject her own flair for design.

She said: “Because the house had so much character I felt it was important to keep the interior traditional but with a modern twist to bring it up-to-date.

“The kitchen, for example, is quite contemporary but it has also got the open fire in there and the chandelier-style lighting is quite traditional.

“It’s very much a shabby chic style and each room has a different feel.

The couple’s home is in an idyllic rural spot with nice country pubs and several sports clubs on its doorstep.

These include the village cricket club – and matches can be seen from the cottage.

The couple have lived in the property for four years, but are now looking to move on.

Sophie said: “I have always loved taking properties and doing them up because there’s such a huge sense of achievement when you finish.

“But because this was my own home the self-satisfaction was far greater. It was a huge challenge but definitely worth it. I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved with the house.

“My dad has always advised me to not worry too much about developing and just get on with it and it’s good advice.

“He’s 60 now and still looking for his next project!”

The Croft, Church Lane, Linthwaite is on the market with Boultons estate agents. To arrange a viewing call 01484 515029.