MAKING A VICTORIAN HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT
Perched above the sea in Weston-super-Mare, a striking Victorian villa is proving that historic character and modern sustainability can live comfortably under the same roof.
Will Cawthorne’ s distinctive Victorian Gothic home in Weston-Super-Mare combines historic character with modern sustainability. Designed by renowned 19th-century architect Hans Price, the property overlooks the sea and is packed with original features. Since moving there in 2015 after nearly two decades in London, Will and his wife have carefully upgraded the home, balancing energy efficiency alongside preserving its historic charm.
A Historic Home with Character
The house, known as Craigfoot, sits high above Weston’ s bay and reflects the unique architectural style that Hans Price helped establish throughout the town.
Built from local Mendip limestone with Bath stone detailing, it was originally a substantial Victorian villa before being divided into two homes in the 1930s.
Will and his wife fell in love with the property almost immediately. While its stunning views and period features were major attractions, owning an older home has also presented significant maintenance and energy-efficiency challenges.
Restoring Before Retrofitting
Before introducing green technologies, Will focused on essential repairs. A deteriorating 1930s garage, positioned prominently at the entrance to the property, was replaced with a new limestone structure designed to complement the house. Planning restrictions within the conservation area meant contemporary designs were rejected, so the new garage was built using reclaimed Victorian stone and traditional detailing.
4- REFURB & RESTORE