Our client left the Isle of Man decades ago but has decided it was time to return to his Manx roots. He came to us to find out whether our architectural design service could give him the chance to own the Manx home he craved. After a meeting, he was convinced he could have the best of both worlds: a luxurious home to fit a modern lifestyle without giving up the much-loved local character of the old harbourside Manx cottage.

At Modus Architects, we don't like the word renovation as it suggests a new plastering and interior scheme; it doesn't do justice to the skill and consideration involved in giving an old building new life. We prefer the term restoration as it describes our approach to restoring a building to its true glory or intended function without clinging to the past.

What was perfect for people many years ago may no longer fulfil modern requirements. A restoration might mean knocking down walls, rearranging floor plans, and extending up, out, or below. But through what can be a dramatic change, the soul and purpose of the building are restored and enhanced.

Walls, floors and ceilings have disappeared while we completely reimagine the internal layout. The original interior was beyond saving throughout the house, and we replaced the structure and floors with oak. Oak beams and floors soften the space into one that is welcoming and warm.

Monumental work had to be done to the whole property, where our focus was on retaining the charm that first captured the client's heart. By lime rendering the stonework, replacing the roof, the window frames and doors, the exterior has been given a modern refresh without detracting from its period charm.

If you have an old building that you would like to give new life to, please get in touch with us by sending an email to info@modus.co.im or contact us below.