Talo

A New Chapter Begins

Tucked away in the heart of the Cotswolds, this project began life as a 1940s bus repair garage. Having passed through various commercial uses over the decades, the building had long outlived its original purpose - until our client envisioned a bold new future for it. Clarke Construction Group was brought in to take over from a previous contractor during the early stages of a challenging conversion, with the space little more than an open shell.

Working from the ground up, our team retained and waterproofed the lower level before installing all new structural steelwork, blocks, and beams to create a new upper floor. This two-storey layout allowed us to craft a compact but beautifully formed home: one electric car garage, a bright living/kitchen space, a top floor bathroom, and a lower ground floor bedroom with en-suite.

Character in Every Detail

What makes this project truly special is the character woven throughout. Our client had spent years collecting reclaimed and salvaged materials — and we worked meticulously to incorporate them all. From the antique internal doors salvaged from a London bank, to marble bathroom details, cast iron radiators, and timber floors pulled from a house in Kent, every surface tells a story.

The process of fitting these unique materials demanded careful adaptation, hand finishing, and problem-solving from our joinery and site teams. Every element — down to the wooden window sills and arched doorway trims — was restored, refined, and installed with precision.

Really pleased with the outcome. Clarke Construction took over the build after a difficult start and delivered a great result. Respectful of my vision and thoughtful with the details — especially working with all the reclaimed bits I’d been saving for years. Would recommend without hesitation.

Kevin H

External Craft, Internal Comfort

Externally, we fitted new windows, cast iron guttering, a custom fascia, and completed the rear cladding and rendering of the long side elevation. A blend of crisp new finishes and soft historic tones helped the building sit confidently in its new residential role while preserving the character of its industrial past.

Inside, the building is now fully insulated, plastered, painted, and fitted out with modern plumbing, electrics, and heating. The layered palette of reclaimed textures combined with the layout's efficient use of space makes this home not only unique — but entirely at peace with its surroundings.

Before/After

What started as a cold, echoing shell — no upper floor, no warmth, no function — has become a warm, expressive and one-of-a-kind home. It’s a transformation that celebrates not just design and detail, but also resilience and reuse. The Blockley Conversion is proof that even the most unlikely spaces can be turned into something truly special with the right team and vision.

Work In Progress

Talo was a true labour of love for the entire Clarke Construction team. From our skilled tradespeople to dedicated project managers, every team member contributed their expertise and passion to bring this vision to life. Here’s a glimpse into the journey and teamwork that shaped this remarkable project.

Our Location

We proudly serve the heart of the Cotswolds and surrounding counties, bringing our bespoke construction expertise to some of the UK’s most desirable towns and villages.

From Gloucestershire’s elegant regency town of Cheltenham to the edges of the market hub of Cirencester, to the picture-perfect villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh, Broadway, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold; through Oxfordshire’s charming Burford, Charlbury, Witney and Woodstock; and up to Warwickshire’s historic Stratford-upon-Avon. Our local knowledge, attention to craftsmanship and understanding of the unique character of each locale ensure every project enhances the beauty and value of these affluent communities.

Ready to Build Something Beautiful?

Connect with our team today and begin the journey of bringing your vision to life, from concept to creation.

Project Information