Crosby Granger Architects are the inspecting Architects to St. Helen’s Church, a Grade I listed church that was recently admitted onto Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register due to the condition of the masonry. The magnesian limestone had been pointed in a cement based mortar that was causing the heavy and rapid deterioration of the solid core masonry. To the chancel particularly, this, coupled with ingress at the wallhead had caused the medieval earth-core masonry to wash out, and to saturate the stonework from the inside out.
Phase 1 was completed in 2017, and saw the chancel re-roofed to resolve the issues of water ingress at the wallhead. This then allowed a period of drying of the stonework before the second phase of works was commenced.
With thanks to a major funding grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Phase 2 was completed in 2019 that included a substantial stone conservation exercise to the entire building envelope, including stone repairs, indents, mortar repairs, friable stone stabilisation, complete re-pointing and localised thrown rough-casting to areas of vulnerable rubble, followed by traditional limewashing to all of the medieval rubble masonry to add an additional layer of protection in the traditional style.
Through careful opening up works during the project development phase, and investigations and consultation with a Materials Analyst we developed a repair mortar that was both compatible with the existing mortar, some of which was earth-based, as well as being an appropriate match for the very soft magnesian limestone.
As part of the main stone conservation project we assisted in facilitating the activities schedule, which included craft skills training, interpretation information, investigative archaeological digs, and a new guidebook.
DISCIPLINES COVERED IN COMMISSION:
• Site evaluation and historic building assessments including structural surveys,
• Production and review of Heritage significance statements,
• Technical advice on details of conservation and design for listed buildings,
• Application and gaining of statutory consents,
• Consultation with Historic England regarding the church’s admission onto the Heritage at Risk Register and agreement of repair methods,
• Consultation with a range of professional disciplines.
Revitalising and expanding a Lake District heritage asset 🌿
We crafted a spacious, dynamic and design-centric concept, involving the replacement of an outdated single-story kitchen and family room. Crucial to the project was the enhancement of panoramic views showcasing the breathtaking landscape - a feature overlooked in the original structure.
Additionally, the proposal prioritiwed the restoration of thermal and airtight efficiencies, which had gradually failed. The revitalisation effort extended beyond mere cosmetic improvements. A holistic approach addressed the property’s infrastructure, leading to the rewiring and replumbing of the original house.
Do you have a renovation project of your own? Get in touch with us 👉 link in bio
#Conservation #LakeDistrict #Architecture
Apr 20
Pre tender visit to Dallam Estate Three Towers 📍
We have been asked to prepare a tender for Historic England, who have been given delegated authority by Defra to support Historic & Archaeological Feature Protection Grants under Countryside Stewardship.
This is part of the Environmental Land Management scheme and provides financial incentives for farmers and land managers to protect and improve the environment, including the historic environment.
These grants are awarded via the Rural Payments Agency. The Countryside Stewardship Heritage Service has a remit to provide pre-application support, application assessment and post-award monitoring for the RPA.
A great opportunity to contribute to the preservation of our historic landscape 👏
#Architects #HistoricEngland #Architecture
Apr 17
Two of our Architects, Will and Luke, recently had the opportunity to attend a heritage skills training day at Levens Hall 🙌
The session was led by accredited Conservation-Restorer and Stonemason Brendan Teasdale, delivered as part of a grant-funded re-roofing project at Levens.
The morning began with an insightful presentation exploring the use of lime in building conservation. In the afternoon, they took part in a practical session focused on the application of lime mortar, learning how to prepare and mix it, before applying it to the Potting Sheds using pointing and wet dash techniques.
A brilliant day of learning and preserving traditional skills 👏
#Architecture #Conservation
Apr 16
We are restoring St Chad’s Church in Gateshead, a Grade I listed landmark known as the 'Cathedral for the Workers.' Our conservation work safeguards its high-Gothic architecture and Arts & Crafts interiors, ensuring the longevity of this community icon. This project reinforces our dedication to preserving places of historic and cultural significance.
Appointed to work on the renowned St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, set within the idyllic village in the Lake District, Crosby Granger Architects is undertaking sensitive conservation efforts. Our focus includes preserving the church's historic features and ensuring its structural integrity, allowing this iconic place of worship to continue serving the community and visitors alike.
We were appointed to carry out the historical research, assessment, and strategic management review, and develop and publish a Conservation Management Plan for Furness Abbey and Piel Castle, both in the Guardianship of English Heritage.
