Restoration Rescue: Ballymena couple revive historic cottages in new BBC Series

The cluster of abandoned cottages dates back to the 1800s. (All images: BBC NI)

In a heartwarming journey to preserve Northern Ireland’s architectural heritage, a new BBC series, Restoration Rescue, follows award-winning architect Patrick Bradley as he guides determined homeowners in breathing new life into neglected historic buildings.

The two-part series, airing on BBC One Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer from Monday, 22 September 2025, begins with Ballymena couple Stephen and Marie, who embark on an ambitious mission to transform a cluster of 19th-century cottages into their dream home.

Episode One: Stephen and Marie’s Ambitious Clachan Restoration

Architect Patrick Bradley, on right, with Stephen and Marie who transformed a clachan of cottages into their dream home.

Nestled on the outskirts of Ballymena, Stephen and Marie have called their family home for 34 years. Now, with their three children having flown the nest, the recently retired couple have set their sights on a crumbling clachan of cottages just a few miles away.

Dating back to the 1800s, these abandoned structures, known as Sam’s Cottage, represent a slice of Northern Ireland’s vernacular architecture.

However, years of neglect have left them in a perilous state, threatening to erase their historical significance.

Architect Patrick Bradley, middle, with Stephen and Marie who transformed a clachan of cottages into their dream home.

The couple enlisted Patrick Bradley to guide them through the delicate process of restoring the cottages while preserving their heritage.

“They have challenged Patrick to restore ‘Sam’s Cottage’ with sensitivity to its heritage while also preserving as much of the fabric of the buildings as possible,” the series producer notes.

Yet, the project quickly encounters a significant setback: the original thatched roof, a cherished feature, is deemed beyond repair.

Work to do: The cluster of abandoned cottages dates back to the 1800s

Undeterred, Stephen and Marie call upon a thatcher with a personal connection to the cottage to craft a new thatch roof, ensuring the building retains its traditional character.

Expert analysis reveals an astonishing discovery: some of the original roof timbers, crafted from bog oak, may be up to 5,000 years old. Remarkably, these ancient materials are salvaged and reused, embodying the timeless architectural traditions of the region.

Under Patrick’s guidance, the team meticulously restores or replicates key features of the traditional Irish cottage, including the iconic door-and-half and lime-rendered walls.

A job well done: Architect Patrick Bradley

Architect Patrick Bradley With Stephen and Marie outside their cottage dream home in Ballymena

Architect Patrick Bradley

The result is a harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern functionality, transforming Sam’s Cottage into a home that honours its past while embracing the couple’s future.

Episode Two: A Daunting Georgian Estate Revival

Architect Patrick Bradley, right, with David and Sam who took on the restoration of the Grade 2 listed Georgian property known as Ballinacross House.

The second episode of Restoration Rescue, produced by Belfast-based independent production company Below The Radar, shifts focus to David and Sam, a couple tackling an even more formidable challenge.

With their three children outgrowing their current home, they have purchased Ballinacross House, a Grade 2 listed Georgian estate in Londonderry, with dreams of transforming it into a grand country residence.

The scale of the project is immense, with initial progress hampered by planning delays and Covid-related lockdowns. Once work begins, new obstacles emerge: the original timbers are riddled with woodworm and wet rot, threatening the structural integrity of the property.

Episode two features the restoration of the Grade 2 listed Georgian property known as Ballinacross House.

Yet, David and Sam remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the estate’s historical charm.

“David and Sam remain committed to preserving the building’s character, salvaging what they can and even transforming some of the damaged wood into a handcrafted family kitchen table,” the producers state.

Patrick Bradley’s expertise proves invaluable as he navigates the couple through the complexities of restoring a listed property, ensuring that Ballinacross House is revitalised as both a family home and a testament to Georgian architectural elegance.

Transformation: Architect Patrick Bradley

A Celebration of Northern Ireland’s Heritage

Restoration Rescue shines a spotlight on the passion and perseverance required to safeguard Northern Ireland’s architectural treasures. From the rustic charm of Sam’s Cottage to the grandeur of Ballinacross House, the series celebrates the individuals who dedicate themselves to preserving the region’s history.

With Patrick Bradley’s architectural insight and the homeowners’ unwavering determination, these neglected buildings are given a new lease of life.

The series premieres on BBC One Northern Ireland at 8pm on Monday, 22 September 2025, with both episodes available to stream on BBC iPlayer. For those inspired by tales of heritage preservation and architectural transformation, Restoration Rescue is a must-watch.