Every wooden floor has a story to tell, but some stories stretch back centuries…
In one of our latest projects, we had the privilege of transforming a 500-year-old farmhouse, carefully lifting its worn floorboards to reveal the layers of history beneath. What we found was a glimpse into the past— a foundation built with time-worn craftsmanship and enduring charm. We even discovered some pennies from 1801!
With the installation of our Heritage Oak flooring, we added a new chapter to this remarkable home’s story.
A Journey Through Time
Walking into a home with such a rich past is always a humbling experience. Over the centuries, these walls have seen generations pass through, each leaving their mark. As we took up the old boards, we uncovered traces of the home’s long life—hand-hewn 4×4″ oak beams and previous Pine and Oak flooring from decades, if not centuries, gone by. You can see the traditional lath & plaster between the joists, which is a technique that was widely used in period homes, and is known for its flexibility, sound insulation, and breathability.
A Sympathetic Restoration
Restoring a farmhouse of this age requires not just skill but deep respect for its original materials. That’s why Heritage Oak was the perfect choice as it was forgiving to the joist undulations as well as looking like it has been there for hundreds of years already. It may surprise you that no complex installation method was used, as the boards were simply face fixed and screwed into the joists. This beautifully aged, wide-board oak flooring seamlessly complements period properties, offering the warmth and authenticity that only solid British wood can provide.
Why Heritage Oak Flooring?
Our Heritage Oak is carefully crafted to enhance the character of historic homes while ensuring durability for modern living. Here’s why it was the perfect fit for this farmhouse:
- Authentic Aesthetic: With its rich patina and natural imperfections, Heritage Oak exudes the charm of centuries-old wood, making it ideal for period restorations.
- Wide Board Elegance: Unlike standard flooring, our wide planks (up to 350mm) maintain the grandeur of traditional craftsmanship. We also perfectly matched the board widths over the room transition from landing to bedroom.
- Sustainably Sourced: True to our ethos at Coppice & Crown, every board is locally grown and fully traceable, ensuring sustainability without compromising on beauty.
A Floor to Last Generations
Now, with its fresh Heritage Oak flooring, this farmhouse is ready to welcome new footsteps while still honouring its past. The transformation is not just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving history and crafting a space that will continue to be cherished for years to come.
We invite you to watch the full journey with us on Instagram, where we share more about the process of uncovering and restoring this magnificent home.
