Hartstead’s March Spotlight: Heritage Boat Restoration for The Empress

March in review at Hartstead Homes, Cheshire

This month brought about a blend of home renovation, bathroom upgrades, and even a historic narrowboat restoration.

Mostly based in: Chester, Stafford and South Manchester.

Proud of: Upgrading the woodwork on beautiful historic narrowboat, The Empress.

Heritage Boat Restoration for The Empress

This has to be our standout project of the month. The Empress belongs to Jamie’s father-in-law, Jim, who has a long and varied career working with boats —particularly historic narrowboats. The Empress, an original Fellows Morton & Clayton coal carrying narrowboat needed woodwork repairs to the hold and step.

Having witnessed Jamie’s meticulous eye for joinery that faithfully maintains the woodwork’s original character, Jim enlisted Hartstead to undertake the work. With perfectly-matched paintwork to the top planks and a faithfully-restored floor, The Empress is now ready for a family summer of historic boat festivals.

Hartstead Homes’ March Camera Roll

Historic Narrowboat Renovation: The Empress

From left to right: 1. Freshly-painted planks, ready to be fitted aboard The Empress. 2. Hand-finished ash wood for the rear of the boat. 3. Fellows Morton & Clayton, The Empress. 4. Ready for a summer of family fun at boat festivals.

Hartstead Homes’ Bathroom Renovation

Next up, to South Manchester. From plastering and plumbing to painting and perfecting, this bathroom was in need of a full renovation. Inspired by Morocco, the customer was keen to create a warm, cosy bathroom with a spa-like feel. With teracotta paint and playful terazzo tiling, this bathroom certainly fits the brief.

Whether you’re restoring traditional woodwork or your home is calling for a renovation, contact Hartstead Homes Cheshire and let’s get building.