INCA Case Study: Gulland, Padstow

This early 20th-century property on Cornwall’s North Coast had fallen into a derelict condition and required extensive refurbishment to bring it back into use. The client’s ambition was to transform the neglected building into a thermally efficient and highly desirable modern home, while carefully preserving it’s character. Achieving this balance between modern performance and traditional appearance was central to the success of the project.

The property’s location presented a significant challenge from the outset. Situated within a very severe exposure zone and facing directly onto the Atlantic Ocean, the building is subjected to some of the harshest weather conditions experienced anywhere in the UK. Constant exposure to driving rain, strong coastal winds and salt-laden air meant that any façade solution would need to offer exceptional durability, weather resistance and long-term performance.

Working closely with Baumit Approved Applicators Towsey Plastering Contractors, Baumit developed a robust EWI specification capable of meeting these demanding environmental requirements while significantly improving the building’s thermal performance. The chosen solution was Baumit StarSystem EPS, a proven external wall insulation system designed to reduce heat loss, improve energy efficiency and enhance occupant comfort. By upgrading the thermal envelope of the building, the system would help create a warmer, more comfortable living environment while contributing to lower energy consumption and reduced heating costs.

At the heart of the system, Baumit StarContact White was used as both the adhesive and reinforced basecoat. Reinforced with mesh, the basecoat layer provides additional strength and impact resistance, making it particularly well suited to properties exposed to severe weather conditions. The robust reinforcement layer also helps minimise the risk of cracking and ensures the long-term integrity of the system.

Following completion of the reinforced basecoat, Baumit MC55 W was applied and carefully sponged to achieve the desired textured finish. The textured finish complemented the property’s original character while providing a suitable substrate for the final decorative coating.

The façade was completed with Baumit StarColor, a premium silicone resin paint renowned for its exceptional weather resistance, colour stability and durability. Particularly suited to exposed locations, StarColor provides long-lasting protection against driving rain, UV exposure and the effects of harsh coastal conditions, helping to maintain the appearance and performance of the façade for years to come. As part of the complete Baumit system, StarColor plays an important role in protecting the building envelope while delivering a high-quality aesthetic finish.

The installation process required careful planning and attention to detail due to the exposed nature of the site. Working in a coastal environment often presents logistical challenges, with weather conditions needing to be closely monitored throughout the programme. However, through close collaboration between Baumit and the applicator, the project was delivered successfully, ensuring that every component of the system was installed in accordance with best practice.

Keith Towsey, Baumit Approved applicator, commented: “Being based in a Zone 4 exposure area, we need complete confidence in the systems we install. The combination of Baumit StarSystem EPS, StarContact White and StarColor provides a robust solution that performs exceptionally well in harsh coastal conditions, delivering both long-term protection and a high-quality finish.”

The completed project demonstrates how the careful specification and application of a fully integrated Baumit façade system can successfully overcome even the most demanding environmental challenges. What was once a neglected and inefficient property has been transformed into a comfortable, energy-efficient and resilient modern home, fully equipped to withstand the rigours of its Atlantic-facing location. At the same time, the refurbishment has preserved the building’s original character, ensuring that it continues to make a positive contribution to the local coastal landscape for many years to come.