Rainwater goods replacement

The Story: Historic Sussex Country House Undergoes Rainwater System Upgrade

A stunning Georgian country house in the heart of the Sussex countryside has recently undergone a careful and sympathetic upgrade to its rainwater system. Built around 1830 and designed by renowned architect James Lewis—whose work includes Lavington House and the Imperial War Museum in London—this Grade II* listed property required a considered approach to maintain its historic charm while improving its functionality. The original cast iron guttering had reached the end of its lifespan and was undersized for the growing demands of increased rainfall. To address this, a deepflow cast aluminium system was chosen, offering a sleek 114mm width and 75mm depth, allowing for greater capacity without altering the property's distinguished appearance. Complementing this upgrade, 76mm round cast collar rainwater pipes were installed, in keeping with the building’s period aesthetic.

The adjacent Coach House also benefited from the refurbishment, with its failing gutters replaced by a standard beaded half-round cast aluminium system, complete with 63mm round cast collar rainwater pipes. The decision to use cast aluminium ensured the new system retained the timeless elegance of cast iron but without the excessive weight and ongoing maintenance challenges. With proper care, the new installation is expected to last over 40 years, providing long-term protection for this historic estate. This project is yet another example of expert heritage conservation work carried out across the South of England, preserving the architectural legacy of the region while ensuring modern durability.

View gallery   Get in touch