Current Issue
Anatomy of a 21st-century renaissance: the technical triumphs of Castle Howard
The term "renaissance" is frequently overused in the heritage sector, but the sweeping multi-year conservation campaign at North Yorkshire’s Castle Howard genuinely earns the title. Driven by estate custodians Nicholas and Victoria Howard, this massive undertaking represents a masterclass in combining archival research, traditional trade skills, and modern building conservation science.
For historic building contractors and specialist specifiers, the project serves as a compelling case study. It demonstrates how to reverse decades of catastrophic fire damage and environmental degradation while subtly adapting a Grade I-listed Baroque masterpiece for the 21st century.
Read more: Anatomy of a 21st-century renaissance: the technical triumphs of Castle Howard
Chapel sound system gets an upgrade
When the East India Company established its training college in Hertfordshire in 1809, the original central building of the quad was used as a library.
Tickets go live for CRE 2026 - free access for Ecclesiastical and Heritage World readers
Tickets are now officially live for the Church Resources Exhibition (CRE) 2026, taking place on 14–15 October 2026 at Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey – bringing together church leaders, decision-makers and suppliers for two days of inspiration, innovation and practical support.
Tickets are free for Ecclesiastical and Heritage World readers using the code EHCOMP when booking. For all other attendees, tickets are £5 each, with 100% of the proceeds donated to charitable causes, ensuring every ticket purchased makes a meaningful difference in local communities.
Read more: Tickets go live for CRE 2026 - free access for Ecclesiastical and Heritage World readers
The sustainable way to upgrade the picture lighting at Castle Howard
As part of the 21st Century Renaissance Project at Castle Howard, Heritage Lighting Matters were asked to sustainably upgrade the picture lighting in the Long Gallery. The company worked with various designers and the Internal Curatorial Team at Castle Howard. This project covered many specialist skill sets to cover all aspects of the room, from gilding to curtains and electrical wiring to architectural joinery. All areas of renovation and restoration were expertly carried out on time to re-open at the end of April.
Read more: The sustainable way to upgrade the picture lighting at Castle Howard
Anthony J Smith (Gloucester) Ltd - the first fifty years... and counting
This year marks a half a century since the incorporation of Anthony’s company – although his fascination with electricity and lighting goes back further, much further.
Anthony (Tony) recalls that in the late 1940’s when he attended Sir Thomas Rich’s Grammar School in Gloucester, he would spend much of his spare time experimenting with a bare light bulb and reflectors from old heaters trying to floodlight his parents’ rear garden. He also recalls a time when he tried to make an arc lamp himself out of some carbon rods from a number of discarded batteries: the result was a small explosion, a puff of smoke, instant attention from the neighbours and a stern reprimand from his father.
Read more: Anthony J Smith (Gloucester) Ltd - the first fifty years... and counting
The restoration of 76 Southbank
Szerelmey Restoration were involved in the recent restoration of this standout 1980s building along the river Thames for Stanhope. This was a complicated project delivered for main contractor Multiplex and working with the architects AHMM.
The grade II listed IBM building (76 Southbank) on Southbank is one of the area’s most iconic buildings and a fine example of Brutalist architecture. It is noted as the final major work of Sir Denys Lasdun who also designed the adjacent National Theatre. The IBM building was completed in 1983 and is characterized by its raw concrete and imposing mass; it was originally the marketing headquarters for IBM and now provides flexible commercial space.
Historic Whitby Abbey facilities benefit from lift modernisation
One of England’s most famous historic monasteries, Grade I - listed Whitby Abbey, has invested in a lift modernisation by Stannah to offer reliable step-free access to visitors.
Originally founded in AD 657 and occupied by the Anglian community, Whitby Abbey was later rebuilt as a Benedictine monastery. Today, the 7th-century ruins remain a popular heritage landmark in North Yorkshire, now housing an award-winning visitor centre repurposed from a 17th-century banqueting hall.
Read more: Historic Whitby Abbey facilities benefit from lift modernisation
Guardians of time: Michlmayr & Co Ltd
Since 1958 Michlmayr & Co has been a sanctuary for horology lovers, offering expert repairs, restoration and servicing for mechanical and quartz watches, as well as clocks of all sizes.
Their Norwich workshop hums with the sound of lathes, ultrasonic cleaners and meticulous hands restoring timepieces to factory condition. Whether it's a treasured Rolex, an intricate Omega or a centuries-old longcase clock, Michlmayr's team delivers a comprehensive service, including cleaning, lubrication, timing adjustments and subtle cosmetic restoration that honours each piece's unique story.
USL tower project at Christ Church Kensington named NFB award finalist
Universal Stone Ltd (USL) are proud to announce that they have been shortlisted for the NFB Construction Awards of Excellence 2026, under the category of Remarkable Renovation and Restoration / Heritage and Conservation Project.
Hosted by the National Federation of Builders, these awards recognise outstanding achievement across the UK construction industry and are judged independently by an expert panel. Being shortlisted is a significant honour and reflects the dedication, craftsmanship and collaboration that define their work.
Read more: USL tower project at Christ Church Kensington named NFB award finalist
Protecting our heritage from the unexpected: why lightning protection should be high on every church's agenda
Churches have stood at the heart of our communities for centuries, surviving wars, storms and the passage of time. Yet one of the greatest threats to these treasured buildings can arrive in an instant. Every year, lightning strikes cause fires, structural damage and costly disruption to historic buildings across the UK, making effective lightning protection an essential part of responsible church stewardship.
For churchwardens, PCC members, diocesan surveyors, architects and heritage professionals, lightning protection is no longer simply a technical consideration. It is a matter of protecting lives, preserving irreplaceable heritage and ensuring the continued use of buildings that serve their communities.
MTA appointed to deliver sustainable heating upgrades at National Trust properties
MTA was delighted to announce its appointment to undertake the refurbishment of heating systems at two significant National Trust properties, Charlecote Park and Berrington Hall.
The projects form part of the National Trust's ongoing commitment to protecting some of the nation's most treasured historic buildings while embracing sustainable technologies that support long-term environmental goals. Both schemes will incorporate modern biomass heating systems alongside carefully considered conservation heating strategies designed specifically for heritage environments.
Read more: MTA appointed to deliver sustainable heating upgrades at National Trust properties
The enduring value of the outdoor noticeboard
In an age where communication is increasingly digital, it might be tempting to assume that traditional noticeboards have become less important. Yet across the country – from village greens and parish churches to heritage attractions, schools and public buildings – the opposite is often true.
A well-designed outdoor noticeboard remains one of the most effective ways of communicating with everyone. Unlike websites or social media, it doesn't rely on internet access, mobile phones or knowing where to search. It is always visible, always accessible and available around the clock.
Historic ironwork conservation in focus - specialist masterclass explores best practice for churches and heritage buildings
From church gates and railings to memorials, screens and decorative architectural features, historic ironwork plays an important role in the character of many heritage sites. Yet exposure to the elements, corrosion and inappropriate repairs can all threaten its long-term survival.
To help those responsible for the care of historic ironwork make informed conservation decisions, the National Heritage Ironwork Group (NHIG) is hosting a one-day training course, Surface Preparation & Coating for Historic Ironwork, on Friday 9 October 2026 at the Avoncroft Museum in Worcestershire.
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