CSA Architects

The Blacksmiths Forge, Mawnan Smith

Following the death of Dryden, the last working Blacksmith in Mawnan Smith in 1994, the Smithy doors were closed and the grade II listed building and its contents went into hibernation.

 

The Anvil Trust was formed and various funding was sought to enable the building to re-open as a working Forge/museum. In addition to the Forge to complete the scheme, three new rural workshops have been constructed on vacant land behind the Forge for the Arts and Crafts community.

 

Csa provided full architectural services on behalf of the Anvil Trust inlcuding comprehensive planning and listed building approvals. The existing Forge has been refurbished using locally sourced materials including lime, sand, green oak, slate and natural stone. Large locally handcrafted green oak trusses have been erected to re-create the original roof. The array of working contents and components have also been restored as part of the project to respect the original internal authenticity.

 

The three new craft workshops are designed to complement the Forge using a contemporary appearance but also respecting the local vernacular of the Village. Sustainable materials, sunpipes, and natural insulation have been specified within these buildings to gain low running costs and carbon emissions.