In the spirit of keeping the past alive at Cogges, a shelter shed has just been treated to a brand new honey-yellow thatch roof – a renovation that reflects Cogges’ desire to preserve the essence of traditional farm life.

A team from Rumpelstiltskin Thatching Company worked tirelessly through the bitter winter to complete the job. As a result of their labours, a truly striking, distinctly rustic building has finally emerged from its cocoon of plastic and scaffolding.

Bundle thatch roofs such as this are now very rare. Traditionally, they were often considered a cheap, rough-and-ready means of providing basic shelter. Despite its nineteenth-century association with poverty, however, its aesthetic appeal has transformed it into a desirable finish for modern cottages and other rural buildings. Originally, their inexpensive nature was one reason why there were so many thatched roofs in livestock yards, where shelter that was affordable but reliable was critical. Additionally, because thatching utilised materials that were easy to come by, it was an obvious choice for farm workers whose funds and time were often limited. The building materials used for Cogges’ new thatching were easily obtained from the grounds of the farm itself. Branches and timber, as well as hedge cuttings and home-grown straw, were put to good use as waste farm materials became essential resources.

The processes involved are intensive and lengthy, and require practised craftsmanship. Multiple layers of thatch were placed onto the roof in order to keep the building watertight. Its structure also means that the roof is easy to repair, so ailing thatch roofs can be given a fresh lease of life without too much hassle. Thatch is also a natural insulator, keeping the interior warm in the winter and cool in the summer – a very versatile option all considered!