From derelict electricity substation to a home unlike any other

Once a 12-metre-tall stone electricity substation abandoned since the 1960s, the building now known as 'Trevolt' stood desolate on Cornwall's moorland for decades. Discover our approach to combating damp, heavily exposed environmental conditions and a comfortable and inviting home.

The iconic electricity substation Trevolt

Built in 1910, the original substation supplied power to towns in the surrounding area but fell into disrepair and was decommissioned only a few decades later, with only a few local cows dropping by for a visit.

Fast forward to 2020, when, amid the pandemic, couple Abi and Morv brought their vision and determination to transform the building into their dream home, which they named Trevolt. Drawing inspiration from the Cornish language, “tre” means homestead, while “volt” pays homage to its previous life as a substation.

The challenge

Located in the exposed landscape environment of a Cornish moorland, the building had endured decades of being battered by the elements. Continuous exposure to rain and wind had taken a toll on the original building materials, and damp had thoroughly seeped into the walls.

“‘The fact that you can actually envisage living here really is remarkable.'”

George Clark, Remarkable Renovations

Technical and aesthetic considerations

Collaborating with homeowners Abi and Morveth and their award-winning architect Jacob Down, our first task was to select the ideal lime mortar that could withstand the region’s harsh elements while complementing the natural stone. Internally, inspired by local vernacular buildings and the building’s historic character, the project aimed to balance old and new, creating a minimalist, serene, and characterful aesthetic.

The solution

To combat the exposed external conditions, Cornerstone Drymix Coarse was chosen for it’s authentic natural aesthetic and vapour permeability to help support moisture management.

To enhance the eco-aesthetic and ensure a dry, warm environment, we selected our Cornerstone Insulating Render as the ideal solution. Composed of Saint-Astier® natural hydraulic lime, recycled glass aggregates, and conservation-friendly additives, this lightweight render is perfect for damp-prone surfaces. Its ability to absorb, store, and buffer excess moisture makes it particularly effective. Additionally, since the render can be applied directly to the walls, the interior space of the substation could be maximised.

Results

Since completion, Trevolt has remained one of our favourite transformations. From a derelict ruin substation to a remarkable rustic three-bedroom and bathroom home, with an excellent balance of old and new.