Apple tree is a farmhouse just on the edge of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is listed Grade II and described by Historic England as dating from 18th century. When we first saw the building it was in poor repair, needing alteration and refurbishment. Work included internal alterations, extensive roof repairs, brick repairs and timber-frame repairs. We also designed an extension, as well as conversions of the garages (as yet unbuilt). The project received enthusiastic approval from the Three Rivers District Council. During construction, as modern layers were stripped away, we found many medieval details, for example a window with clear signs of shutter grooves and diamond mullions. Timber stop bead detailing helped date it back to c1550. Most importantly, we found two medieval painted timber braces. The decorative scheme is complex octagonal pattern with three recurring motifs, the dominant one – a double fleur-de-lis – is commonly associated with the Virgin Mary. Paint analysis not only confirmed a date between 1500 and 1550 but also that this is the earliest instance of scorch marks/witch marks being painted over by decorative schemes, suggesting that they were not actually meant to be seen. This is a significant discovery, contributing further to understanding of medieval buildings.