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Historic Buildings
Ellis & Moore has built up a wealth of experience of historic buildings, having been involved with listed and non-listed buildings for many years. Historic buildings have a historical and cultural significance. It is therefore of vital importance that when the time comes for restoration and/or conversion work to take place, that it is done is the most sensitive and understanding manner. The practice has a proven track record for over 25 years, having played a significant role in the restoration and conversion of historic buildings in the south of the UK Camden New Court Lancaster Road Methodist Church London.
The issues are often similar, but the solutions must often be amended to respect the integrity of the listed building. This can mean conserving the fabric of the building itself in a sympathetic way and the use of appropriate materials sourced to reflect those used in the original construction. Our experience and investment in the research of lime based materials stands us in good stead in this regard. Sometimes the only way to ensure the survival of listed structures is by intervention with modern materials, and when necessary this is always negotiated with the appropriate authorities and carried through so as to cause the minimum of disruption.
Often the issues are not associated with the fabric, but with the finishes applied to them. Detailing must always consider these factors and achieve the desired end with the least possible disturbance.
Our preferred approach is always to fully investigate the buildings, both in-situ and by archive research, so as to understand the way in which the building structure is performing, and how it is influencing or is relying upon adjoining buildings. Only then is it possible to derive a strategy for refurbishment with some confidence that the integrity of the building overall, and its protected features, is maintained throughout the work. We seek to devise appropriate sequences of work as part of our project risk assessments, and we discuss these with the selected contractors. These will be experts in their field, and their proposals are evaluated in the context of the requirements of the listed building and agreed sequences of work established. We inspect during the progress of works to ensure the agreed methods of working are followed and (as is often the case) amended in an appropriate way as conditions dictate.
We understand the statutory issues that arise, and seek to ensure that statutory bodies are fully consulted during the development of the design and refurbishment process.