Kori Construction has announced the acquisition of Weldon Lodge, one of Corby's oldest and most historically significant buildings, with plans to restore the long-neglected farmhouse and transform it into the company's new office headquarters.

The Grade II listed property, which dates back to the 17th century, has stood unoccupied since 2014. Despite its rich heritage, Weldon Lodge has lacked a clear use for decades. Now, Kori is set to breathe new life into the building while preserving its historical character.

Weldon Lodge is the second oldest building in Corby, originally constructed as a farmhouse serving the surrounding rural land. It was remodelled in the 18th century and saw further modifications in the 19th and 20th centuries. One of the farmhouse’s most unique features is its lime-ash flooring with a reed base, a traditional construction method no longer in use today.

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The project will be delivered in two distinct phases:

Phase 1: Urgent Restoration Works

This phase focuses on stabilising and securing the building, making it wind- and watertight. Works will include underpinning, roof repairs, masonry restoration, and fixing water ingress issues to preserve the building’s structural integrity and prevent further deterioration.

Phase 2: Interior Fit-Out and Community Space

Once the structure is stabilised, the team will begin a sensitive interior refurbishment. The main lodge will be repurposed into meeting rooms and workspaces that balance historic charm—retaining features like original fireplaces and exposed timber beams—with modern comfort and functionality.

A detached barn on the site will be transformed into a tearoom open to the public, offering a social hub for both Kori staff and the local community. The tearoom will maintain its rustic character, with stone walls, exposed beams, and indoor and outdoor seating.

Alongside the restoration of Weldon Lodge, Kori will also construct a brand-new office building on the site to accommodate the company’s continued growth. The new headquarters will be three times the size of the current office and feature a modern, open-plan layout with hot-desks, quiet zones, private call booths, breakout spaces, and flexible work areas.

Facilities will also include a large boardroom, multiple meeting rooms, a dedicated kitchen and breakout space, ample storage and plenty of on-site parking. The restored manor house will serve as an extension of the new office, offering additional meeting spaces and flexible-use rooms for both company and community purposes.