Turning a Freezing Barn into a Cosy Workshop: Our Pottery Renovation Journey

Today, we finally took the first steps on a project we've been mulling over for ages—the complete refurbishment of the pottery and workshop. Right now, it’s a cold, unforgiving space. The stone-built barn (as we call it) is pleasant enough in summer but turns into an icebox in winter. Not exactly ideal for throwing pots. Our two propane heaters barely make a dent, and the bare stone walls seem to collect dust as fast as we sweep. The floor? Let’s just say it’s not kind to cold feet.

The daunting task of packing everything up began this morning. Hand tools, power tools, glazes, clay—you name it, it’s going in a box. I thought 90 boxes would be plenty, but after filling 15 in just a couple of hours and barely making a dent, I’m starting to think I underestimated.

Once we clear the space, the real work begins. The contractor will dig out and redo the floor, insulate and dryline the walls, and install a false ceiling to keep whatever heat we generate from vanishing into the rafters. Then comes decorating and finishing—but that feels a long way off.

This will be a slow and steady project stretching through spring and summer, which means our production will be limited for a while. But in the end, it’ll be worth it. Watch this space for updates—we’ll get there, one step (and one box) at a time!