Originally built as a magazine for the adjacent gun battery, Moulin Huet Cottage was used to store ammunition, and also possibly as accommodation, for the militia during the late 18thC early 19thC.
According to historical records it appears the magazine was later converted into a cottage, which subsequently became a popular tearoom during the late 19thC. Victor Hugo and his family can be seen visiting the tearoom in a historic photograph from this time. The cottage is clearly visible in one well known painting of The Peastacks by Auguste Renoir – ‘Fog on Guernsey’ (1883), as well as other paintings and a number of photographs.
It is thought that the cottage ceased to be used following the occupation, becoming derelict and overgrown, gradually decaying over the years and eventually being forgotten. It is only when Mr. Le Page began clearing his family’s land over the last few years that the ruins of the cottage were uncovered.
Following Mr Le Page’s discovery the dense vegetation was cleared and the walls carefully repaired under the guidance of CCD Architects and DLA Structural Engineers, using traditional materials and techniques.
With the structure stabilised the next phase of the project will be the creation of a small self-catering holiday let available to locals and visitors alike. It is envisaged that this will be most popular for short stays and long weekends, due to the limited nature of the facilities available.
The approach taken to the reconstruction of the cottage has been to adhere as much as possible to the original external appearance of the cottage, using historic photographs and paintings to inform what materials and finishes are utilised.
CCD were thrilled to have successfully negotiated the planning process and obtained permission in October 2021.
