Restoring magnificence to a Grade I listed manor

Ufford Hall is a magnificent Grade I listed building originally built in 1734 for a younger son of the Duke of Rutland. After many years of tenanted occupation, most latterly as apartments, it eventually passed to the National Trust who sold it on due to its poor physical condition. AFD were commissioned to undergo a full restoration by its new owners though RTK, Stamford-based architects with whom we have previously worked on a number of projects.

The Hall was completely gutted and rebuilt over a period of two years. Authentic features like the windows and lead downpipes, central staircase and intricate plasterwork have been restored to their original glory and are now set off by modern pieces and contemporary lighting.

Ufford Hall is built of ashlar, the finest stonemasonry unit that is worked until square, and its precision allows for very thin joints between the blocks. Restoring and matching this was an important element of the project, as was reconstructing magnificent period features such as the intricate front door.

Working with the architects, AFD were also commissioned to renovate the grounds including the driveway, ponds, and patio. Brand new limestone features like these balusters integrate seamlessly with the restored ashlar of the original building, as well as the new York stone slabbing.

Interior highlights include handmade wood panelling, renovated fireplaces, intricate coving and plasterwork, as well as magnificent marble flooring.

AFD worked closely with designer Lizzie Stanhope on the interiors. This included laying European oak parquet flooring to many of the ground floor reception rooms. Since a new, wood pellet-fired underfloor heating system had been installed, solid blocks were selected and these were laid over a liquid screed.