Shoot Lodge, Henley, Oxfordshire
The Shoot Lodge is a beautiful Grade II Listed 6 bedroom farm lodge dating back to the 15th Century, and forms part of the complex of various buildings that have evolved over time. The “Shoot Lodge”, as it is now named, consists of four different building phases, which shows the progression of the property through evolution. The construction date of the property is unknown, however an investigation completed by the previous owners references a map dating back to 1616 prepared by Richard Comley. The map drawing showing various outbuildings on the site, including a small building on a triangular shaped plot of land, which must have been the original cottage. The quality of the timber framing within, the wide curved wall, and wind braces including a king post, indicates a 15th century build date. Other maps of this time highlight the land being subdivided into strips, with different names allocated to them, it would seem at this time the house was subdivided into two properties. The 1841 Census Returns highlights two labouring families living at the cottage.
The two timber framed bays occupy the central part of the house, phase 2 is the two-bay brick and flint building which was added to the north gable of the timber framed part. Building 3 (to the southern side) is the brick and flint building, believed to have been built as a 19th century stable, and later used a tack room with possibly a hay loft over. And finally Building 4, this is the much later addition.
The project involved carefully renovating and restoring the property, ensuring all original features were retained. The roof was mostly in good order, so only localised repairs were completed. All existing windows/doors were sound, only being repaired as required, before repainting. The brick and flintwork was in a solid state, so left untouched. All timber work internally had been painted black over time, so this was softly blasted to remove the layers and bring back the natural rich oak colour. Fireplaces were retained, and period radiators added back in lieu of previously installed modern pressed steel ones. All electrics and plumbing were replaced, ceilings and walls repaired, old bathrooms removed with new ones added back, a new kitchen designed and installed, before finally a complete redecoration throughout.
The Lodge project has been a massive transformation, from what it was to its state today – certainly a labour of love for all involved.
