Mike Masterson

INSPIRATION

Michael has a great interest in history. Bought this land with a number of buildings on it: a 1970’s bungalow, stone buildings from 1900’s and 1930’s and the ruins of a 1700’s clay house.

As a builder he gradually renovated them, over a number of years, all using the original building materials and methods. One stone building is used as artists’ studios and accommodation; another is a museum and occasional session venue. The bungalow is a family’s home. He has now just finished the last piece in the jigsaw – the clay house. It is a beautiful building and it rented out as a holiday let.

He got this property in 1998 and knows the full history of the site, its occupants and the businesses that used to operate from there; it was once a thriving economic centre for the area.

Michael's passion for the history of the area means he has a wealth of knowledge and stories to tell about the site. He does this through his builings and his storytelling sessions. 

TYPE OF HOUSE

Clachan – collection of houses bought in need of repair.

POINT OF INTEREST

CREATIVE ELEMENTS

Restoring a historical site for modern day use. Passion for history and the materials used, bringing the use of these materials back to life through use and demonstration.

ARCHITECT/DESIGN BY

Self

BUILDER

Self. Has a passion for working with clay/mud for historical reasons. Uses his own mud for building. Has learnt a lot from the Devon Earth builders and has links with Marcus McCabe Hempire.

WATER SOURCE

mains

WASTE

septic tank

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Planning:   n/a
Time Scale: On-going since 1998
Anything you would have done differently?: No
Satisfaction Rating: Really enjoys what he does.

wwof the material for low-energy, sustainable building
www.devonearthbuilding.com:
The aims and objectives of the Devon Earth Building Association or DEBA are as follows
1 To provide a forum for the discussion of issues relating to the conservation of earth buildings in Devon and the South West of England.
2 To provide advice and technical guidance on the repair and maintenance of earth buildings, including composite structures, daubs, renders and plasters, through an information service, the publication of technical leaflets dealing with specific issues, and the organisation of practical demonstrations, exhibitions/displays and seminars.
3 To encourage and support scientific and technical research and practical/professional training in the field of earth construction and associated traditional building methods.
4 To establish mutually beneficial links with groups and individuals working with earth buildings in other parts of Britain and abroad.
5 To encourage the revival of earth building techniques for repair of existing structures and new building construction and to investigate the potential of the material for low-energy, sustainable building