Holiday Cottage Renovation

A carefully crafted holiday cottage at the heart of the village

Set in the heart of Mawdesley village, this small-scale renovation is a standout example of how even the smallest renovation can make a lasting impact. Once a modest two-bedroom rental bungalow and before that, a butcher’s shop and Royal British Legion, this unassuming red-brick building was transformed by MWB Residence into a charming holiday home that both honours its history and enhances the local streetscape.

Working closely with the client, MWB Architecture reimagined the layout and footprint of the cottage. A newly purchased rear plot allowed for a vaulted single-storey extension, creating a light-filled open-plan kitchen, living, and dining space. A side addition introduced a compact utility, while the original structure was fully renovated with resized windows, a new roof, and high-quality finishes.

Design Highlights

The external palette blends modern and traditional elements, with water-struck brick, light render, and crisp stone details. However, the standout feature is the reconstructed 18th-century stone wall and handcrafted English oak porch, salvaged from the original schoolhouse foundations and relocated to form the new frontage. This gesture roots the cottage in the village’s history while adding timeless appeal.

Internally, the open-plan layout and vaulted ceilings give a sense of space beyond its modest scale. Every element, from brickwork to finishes, was carefully considered to create a home full of character, comfort, and story.

Sustainability & Legacy

Named in honour of its Royal British Legion past, Poppy Cottage has become a point of pride for the village, a distinctive, beautifully finished home that acknowledges its roots while offering modern comfort and usability.