What's best way to restore historical buildings?

8 valuable tips on bringing your historic building back to life!

1. Understand the building's history

Before starting any work, it's essential to research the building's history and significance. This will help you understand what features need to be preserved and what changes can be made.

2. What is the condition of the building?

Conducting a thorough assessment of the building's condition helps determine the extent of repair or restoration required. 

This assessment should cover the structural integrity, stability, water damage and decay affecting the building fabric and use.

3. What are the legal and regulatory obligations?

Know the legal requirements and restrictions associated with its listed status and heritage designation.

Research and liaise with the local conservation officer and statutory bodies to obtain permission for the proposed repair work.

 4. What are the desired outcomes for the repair work?

Define the objectives of the repair project. Consider how the goal of reinstating and preserving the building's original state wherever possible using specific practices as much as possible of the period. Consider using similar methods and techniques to provide new improvements where needed.

5. What are the budget and available resources?

Evaluating the financial resources available for repair work is crucial. It's recommended to create a budget that not only covers the initial repairs but also accounts for any other maintenance and repairs that may be done simultaneously. This approach maximises the use of scaffolding and the expertise of specific craftsmen, adding value to the building at a lower cost for the owner in the long run.

 6. Are there any potential risks or challenges?

Identify and mitigate as many potential risks such as hidden structural elements, environmental impacts and include a contingency for unforeseen complications that may arise during the repair work.

Anticipate challenges related to access and necessary conservation techniques. Make sure any modern building material is compatible bile with the existing building fabric.

7. What are the appropriate repair and conservation methods?

Determine and specify the most suitable conservation techniques and materials based on the building's condition and historical significance. Ensure techniques have minimal impact to the existing historical building and all repairs  are compatible with the original fabric.

 8. How will the repairs impact the building's future maintenance?

Plan for the ongoing maintenance and care of the building post-repair.

Consider the potential long-term implications of the repair and ensure the chosen interventions are sustainable and minimise future maintenance requirements.

By addressing these questions, you can develop a comprehensive understanding of the building's needs, legal obligations, and desired outcomes, which will inform the decision-making process for the repair work. Consulting with professionals, such as architects, conservation specialists, and heritage experts, can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the project.