When two become one: how a pair of cottages near York became a sustainable family home

At first glance, you might think it was its good old-fashioned period charm that convinced Lee Thornley to splash his cash on this 1650s double-fronted cottage in Poppleton, a tranquil village on the outskirts of York. However, it was more than good looks that persuaded Thornley, founder of the tile company Bert & May, and his partner, Phil Brocklebank, to make this their forever family home with their two daughters, Lyla, 14, and Iris, 11, plus dogs Tilly and Molly.

“It ticked boxes that most houses don’t,” says Thornley. “The River Ouse is literally at the bottom of the garden, so it had the potential to offer a very different way of life. For example, yesterday I was messing around setting up a makeshift mooring, and we regularly take kayaks or paddleboards out on the water. Sometimes I even pick up the girls from school by boat. I love the headspace it provides.”

The house, which is two cottages knocked into one, needed a lot of work before they moved in. When they bought it, it had two staircases, two kitchens and a warren of tiny spaces that weren’t conducive to modern family living. Now, it’s a sanctuary. Downstairs, there is a cosy snug and a large open-plan kitchen-diner that opens on to a natural outdoor pool. Upstairs, there are four generous bedrooms, each with an en suite.

Sustainability was key to the project. Thornley and Brocklebank reinsulated the property, installing a heat pump that delivers 80% of the heating and hot water, and they double-glazed the original sash windows. The pair were also intent on using salvaged materials wherever possible.

“I feel there’s no choice these days when it comes to using reclaimed materials – ‘reuse’ should be a given,” says Thornley. “It’s so important when we’re renovating that we’re not just copying a look from Instagram or following the latest trend. The core material choices we make should be very considered and should last a lifetime – we’re merely temporary custodians of these properties and it’s our job to ensure their longevity.”

There is evidence of his restorative approach throughout the house. The interior is sparse yet comforting, rich in character and texture. “We deliberately didn’t put much art on the walls so there’s little visual clutter, which makes it very peaceful and your attention is drawn to the views of the river instead,” Thornley says.

Downstairs, a pared-back palette of exposed brick, limewashed walls, reclaimed timber flooring and natural stone finishes allows the rooms to breathe and speak of their past. They’re embellished only by a careful edit of vintage finds, including an emerald-green German stove and a huge ottoman made from a worn Danish gym mat.

Upstairs, there’s a cabin vibe. The low false ceilings have been stripped back to expose the vaulted roof and original timber beams, creating a loftiness that’s surprising for a cottage, with walls clad in reclaimed wood and oak floors that add warmth.

The master suite was formerly a sitting room, but Thornley and Brocklebank commandeered it for its incredible views of the garden and the countryside beyond. With four en-suite bedrooms in total, they now have space for guests, and their daughters are ecstatic about not having to share a bathroom. Lyla and Iris’s en suites are decked out in cool geometric Bert & May tiles, naturally.

“I wanted to use reclaimed tiles wherever I could – in the open-plan kitchen and master suite I tiled the fireplaces in really strongly patterned Spanish ones, which add a layer of interest and an element of fun,” says Thornley. “They are like pieces of art that instantly bring a lot of character to a space and create a focal point.” He advises, “If you spot some tiles you love, snap them up. Even if it’s just a metre’s worth, find a way to use them creatively, whether that’s a splashback or a rug effect within the floor itself – it can make all the difference.”

While the interiors are, of course, beautiful, Thornley’s priority was creating a connection with the outdoors. The deVOL kitchen and large family dining table – made from salvaged Spanish shutters – are positioned to overlook the garden with its natural swimming pool.

“It’s amazing to wake up and take a dip first thing,” says Thornley. “It’s a real privilege to live here – it’s truly life-enriching stuff.”