A Journey with IJB Carpentry at Sunnymead in Sunny St. Margaret's, Kent
Welcome to the world of IJB Carpentry, where professionalism meets down-to-earth craftsmanship. In this journal entry, we invite you to join us on a remarkable journey through a renovation turned new build project in the seaside village of St. Margaret's.
As the owner of IJB Carpentry, I'll be your guide, sharing the story behind our craftsmanship, attention to detail, all while showing some deep appreciation for some of the amazing locations in Kent (and beyond), that we have the privilege to call our working environment.
So please , sit back, relax, and let us take you on a captivating adventure.
Tucked away in the scenic county of Kent, lies the delightful village of St. Margaret's. A place that effortlessly weaves together its rich historical tapestry with breathtaking natural beauty. Resting on the southeastern coast, this humble village has a captivating past that stretches back through the centuries. From its idyllic coastal views to its remarkable landmarks, St. Margaret's invites visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless allure of England's history.
Nestled within the district of Dover in Kent, St. Margaret's enjoys a picturesque setting just a stone's throw away from the renowned White Cliffs of Dover.
St. Margaret's boasts a history that spans generations, with echoes of the past resonating throughout its streets. In ancient times, this area held close ties to the important port town of Richborough during the Roman era, leaving an indelible mark on its historical tapestry. As the centuries unfolded, St. Margaret's played a significant role in safeguarding England's shores.
Positioned near the English Channel, St. Margaret's held a strategic location, actively participating in the nation's protection against potential invaders.
St. Margaret's proudly boasts several landmarks that epitomise its historical and architectural significance. Among these treasures stands the remarkable St. Margaret of Antioch Church. Dating back to the 12th century, this exquisite church is a testament to the village's deep-rooted religious heritage. Inside, visitors are greeted by awe-inspiring stained glass windows, each telling its own story through vivid hues and intricate designs. These windows serve as a poignant memorial, paying homage to the village's resilience and the indomitable spirit of its community in the face of adversity.
Whilst visiting the church I had the the most amazing experience talking to some of the parishioners. They passionately orated some of the history of the church, showing me the repaired arches damaged from bombing and the story behind the amazing stained glass memorial.
St. Margaret's not only boasts a rich historical offering but also generously supplies breathtaking natural beauty that enchants visitors. The village is surrounded by idyllic countryside, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embark on invigorating hikes, scenic cycling routes, and leisurely nature trails.
St. Margaret's Bay, is a place I visited during some lunch breaks. At low tide it is littered with rockpools and during the half-term, it swarmed with families exploring the pools searching for crabs.
In the village there are cafe's with delicious home made food, nature trails. Near the Bay is home of The Pines Calyx a globally acclaimed eco-building with a large formal garden and a walk along the cliffs beyond that is the South Foreland Lighthouse. Now I have set the sign, lets move onto the project in hand.
Our journey begins with a project that initially started as a renovation but evolved into an exciting new build opportunity. As plans were amended, we embraced the challenge and embarked on creating something truly extraordinary. The transformation began with the crucial task of joisting out the first floor, setting the foundation for the project's success.
The next stage of our adventure led us to the formation of two big flat roof sections, complete with hidden box gutters and a two-way fall. These areas will eventually be decked with ply and surfaced with a rubber membrane, ensuring durability and long-lasting beauty. Our commitment to quality shines through every step of the way.
As we move into the heart of the project, we enter the living area, where the center section of the floor plan resides. Here, we implemented eco joists, which offer exceptional stability and minimize issues like shrinkage, warping, and movement. This innovative choice ensures a final finish with significantly less cracking. Moreover, the service void running throughout the joists simplifies the installation of electrics and plumbing, enhancing functionality and convenience for future homeowners.
With the 'groundwork' meticulously laid, our attention turns skyward as we prepare to tackle the roof and dormers. The art of cutting and pitching roofs is where our passion truly ignites. The harmonious combination of craftsmanship and technique comes together, providing us with a rewarding experience and the opportunity to create a masterpiece.
As we craft dreams at this secluded location, we find ourselves surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. Nestled amidst farm fields and rolling hills, the job site offers a breathtaking view of the valley, where cows graze and the sea stretches out before us. While working in this remote neighborhood, we respect the local community and appreciate the wisdom and guidance shared by a friendly older neighbor on our first day.
Life on a little farm track brings its own unique challenges. We understand that unpredictable weather and muddy conditions can test our mettle. But in the face of adversity, we stay true to our commitment, determined to deliver exceptional results. The occasional appearance of tractors and farm machinery only serves to remind us of the harmony between rural life and the craftsmanship we bring to this picturesque setting.
Working next to a footpath and bridleway, we witness the constant ebb and flow of life. Throughout the day, workers and horse riders pass by, adding a touch of vibrancy to the project. Our gaze extends beyond the job site, capturing the graceful dance of tankers and sailboats on the nearby sea, while walkers explore the distant cliffs, adding a sense of adventure to our surroundings.
Our journey with IJB Carpentry at Sunnymead has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the initial renovation plans to the evolution into a new build project, every step has been guided.
I will keep you updated as this project goes on into completion.
I am Ieuan Jones, founder of IJB Carpentry, thank you for joining me on this adventure, if you are in Kent I highly recommend a trip to St Margaret's! it is a truly wonderful place. If you know anyone in need of a Carpenter please let them know about IJB.