Basement Restoration – From Damp and Mould to a Breathable Heritage Finish

This basement originally suffered from severe damp and mould due to the use of non-breathable sand and cement render on solid stone walls—a common mistake in older buildings. Moisture had nowhere to go, leading to unhealthy living conditions and fabric decay.

After discussing the options with the client, we carefully stripped the cement back and discovered a beautifully rugged original stone wall beneath. Rather than cover it up again, we decided to celebrate the heritage.

We repointed the exposed stone using NHL lime to achieve a soft, breathable beige tone that complements the natural stone and allows moisture to escape properly. The surrounding walls were finished in lime putty for a fully breathable and historically sympathetic restoration.

The result is not only healthier for the home but also highlights the character and craftsmanship hidden beneath years of inappropriate modern materials.