Current Issue
Our remembrance is brought into focus by the restoration of significant buildings
For over 145 years, Bakers of Danbury Heritage Building Contractors has been a trusted specialist in the conservation of ecclesiastical and heritage sites. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail means every project they undertake is built to last – blending traditional craftsmanship with modern restoration techniques.
They take great pride in ensuring that the buildings they work on not only stand the test of time but also continue to tell the stories they hold.
Read more: Our remembrance is brought into focus by the restoration of significant buildings
William the Conqueror’s Norwich Castle Keep reopens its doors
On Wednesday 13 August one of the most spectacular palaces in medieval Europe is fully reopening its doors as it turns back the clock 900 years to the heyday of Norman England following a multi-million-pound redevelopment.
This has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Players through a grant of over £13 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The overall project budget is £27.5 million, with £12 million contributed by Norfolk County Council and the remaining funding provided by other sources.
Read more: William the Conqueror’s Norwich Castle Keep reopens its doors
Letting the light in: a Dartmoor barn conversion rooted in craft, conservation and local character
When Issy and Murray Bryars first set eyes on the dilapidated granite barn that sat quietly beside their Dartmoor farmhouse, they saw more than just an agricultural relic. They saw a future retreat; one that would allow visitors to connect with Dartmoor’s dramatic beauty in a space that honoured its past, supported the local economy, and embraced sustainable building practices.
Their vision has since taken shape in the form of a strikingly understated, light-filled holiday let that seamlessly blends into the surrounding National Park landscape. More than just a sympathetic conversion, the project reflects a deep commitment to local sourcing, environmental responsibility, and architectural integrity; a showcase of what can be achieved when modern needs are balanced with conservation values.
Bucks church draws on neighbour’s experience in choosing lighting contractor
St Mary Magdalene Church at Great Hampden in Buckinghamshire dates back more than 800 years and sits alongside the Manor House of the Hampden family, mentioned in the Domesday Book. The church has undergone many major and minor changes over the years: the chancel was rebuilt in the 15th century and contains many fine Hampden family monuments. It is believed and quite probable that John Hampden the Patriot, cousin of Oliver Cromwell, is buried in the chancel.
Read more: Bucks church draws on neighbour’s experience in choosing lighting contractor
Frank Holmes Fine Décor launches Heritage Collection to celebrate 35 years in business
Specialist decorator Frank Holmes Fine Décor marks its 35th anniversary this summer by launching an exclusive heritage collection available for commission.
The latest additions to the Frank Holmes Fine Décor Heritage Collection include two rare architectural designs from the Arts & Crafts period – 'lost' raised relief designs no longer available on the high street.
Read more: Frank Holmes Fine Décor launches Heritage Collection to celebrate 35 years in business
Maximising church spaces: the importance of AV technology beyond the main worship area
In the heart of many communities, houses of worship provide hope, support and friendship to all walks of life. While the main worship area often takes centre stage, the potential of extended areas within the church should not be overlooked. These spaces can be transformed into vibrant hubs of activity with the help of modern audio visual (AV) technology, bringing in more members of the community and making full use of the venue’s facilities.
Read more: Maximising church spaces: the importance of AV technology beyond the main worship area
Conservation treatment continues to preserve the West Front of Wells Cathedral
Cliveden Conservation is pleased to announce its appointment to undertake the ongoing conservation of the exquisite carved stonework on the West Front of Wells Cathedral. This significant repair programme, which is now underway with a completion date in the autumn, is being conducted in collaboration with Nick Cox Architects and the Cathedral.
The project builds upon the meticulously planned and executed pilot phase conducted in 2022 by Cliveden Conservation, which focused on cleaning and repairing the stonework and sculptures on the central top tiers above the West Window. During this initial phase, conservators developed a methodology now being implemented across the entire West Front to preserve fragile surfaces and carved figures.
Read more: Conservation treatment continues to preserve the West Front of Wells Cathedral
Bakers of Danbury accredited as a Chartered Building Company
Bakers of Danbury Ltd, a leading name in heritage building conservation restoration and modern construction, are pleased to announce its recent achievement of company membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
This milestone achievement demonstrates Bakers of Danbury’s commitment to construction excellence, professional development and adhering to the highest of industry standards. As CIOB members, the company joins a respected network of construction professionals that promotes best practice across the construction industry.
Read more: Bakers of Danbury accredited as a Chartered Building Company
From halogen to LED lighting: a sustainable transformation at Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury Cathedral, a beacon of faith and heritage, recently completed a transformative relighting project, harnessing ERCO’s innovative LED technology. This initiative has elevated the Cathedral’s visual and spiritual presence, aligning with its commitment to sustainability and accessibility. The new lighting solutions have significantly lowered the Cathedral’s carbon footprint, reducing internal energy use by over 80% and saving approximately 30 tonnes of CO₂ a year. Reverend Kenneth Padley, Canon Treasurer at Salisbury Cathedral, described the outcome as, “simply spectacular... The Cathedral is better lit than at any time during its 800-year history.”
Read more: From halogen to LED lighting: a sustainable transformation at Salisbury Cathedral
Michelmersh celebrates 11 shortlisted projects at the 2025 Brick Awards
Michelmersh is proud to have eleven projects shortlisted at this year’s Brick Development Association (BDA) Brick Awards – a continued testament to the strength, versatility, and trusted quality of its clay brick products across the built environment.
Now in its 49th year, the BDA Brick Awards remain one of the most respected accolades in the construction industry, championing architectural excellence, innovation, and outstanding craftsmanship. With fourteen categories covering everything from sustainability and innovation to urban regeneration and public buildings, this year’s shortlist reflects the breadth of ambition and creativity across the sector.
Read more: Michelmersh celebrates 11 shortlisted projects at the 2025 Brick Awards
Lightning protection standard updated
The four-part international standard for lightning protection, BS EN IEC 62305, has been updated to reflect the latest expert knowledge and best practices. Together, the documents form the essential guide for anyone involved in safeguarding structures, their occupants and systems from the damaging effects of lightning.
There has been a British Standard for lightning protection since 1965. In 1985 BS 6651 was adopted and in 2006 that was superseded by BS EN 62305, which was in turn updated in 2011.
Re-roofing of Grade Two-listed vicarage in Rosemary clay tiles
Re-roofing in Rosemary clay tiles at its absolute best! Check out this gorgeous property, recently re-roofed with brand new Rosemary clay tiles by Yorkshire-based Green and Heritage Roofing. This historic building was originally constructed in 1873 as a vicarage by Norman Shaw for the Holy Trinity Church (since demolished). Managing director Chris Hopkins takes up the story:
"This beautiful property has since been divided into two separate dwellings. Fun fact: The stone lintel is inscribed with “HAEC DOMUS PERITVRA AEDIF 1873” in Latin which means ‘This house has been built in 1873’. The original red clay roof tiles lasted 150 years!
Read more: Re-roofing of Grade Two-listed vicarage in Rosemary clay tiles
Parish church AV system embraces community needs
It’s mid-2024, and Creative Audio-Visual Solutions (CAVS) are commissioned to start a major AV upgrade at St Andrew’s Church in Hertford. St Andrew’s is not only a busy church in the heart of Hertford, but is also a popular venue for folk groups and ensembles. The brief for the audio system was to cater effectively for all those requirements at the highest level.
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