stephen varwell’s Post

Should you use modern materials in historic structures? 🤔 It depends... As an architect passionate about heritage conservation, I believe in the power of blending tradition and innovation. Introducing modern yet compatible materials in the repair of historic buildings cannot only enhance their structural integrity but also ensure their longevity. However, it does really depend on the heritage site to assess if it is feasible or not. A few years back, I was involved in repairing the ruined flint walls of the Keep of Walden Castle in Saffron Walden. The top of the walls and internal and external wall faces had eroded severely due to the constant saturation of rainwater 💧 through cracks and voids, plus vegetation 🌿 growth. One of the many repairs undertaken involved the installation of soft capping to protect the top of the walls. This approach led to reinstating one arch at the top of the west wall to provide a continuous surface for the soft capping. The arch was designed using reinforced concrete mixed with white cement and linked to the old flint walls using stainless steel pins, which proved pivotal in preserving and conserving the top of the flint walls. A collaborative approach with the structural engineer and Historic England was the key to the success of the second phase of that project. Recognising that each conservation project is unique and that there's no one-size-fits-all solution will help achieve a harmonious balance that withstands the test of time and preserves history for the future. Interested? Let's talk about your 'problematic building.' #heritagepreservation #modernmaterials #traditionalmaterials Ed Morton Trudi Hughes Adrian D. Ward MCIOB Nicola Wittman

Breakthrough Innovations Reshaping the Construction Landscape https://lnkd.in/gTpdGumW #breakthrough #innovations #reshaping #construction #landscape #thesiliconreview #ModularConstruction

🚁 Ever seen your project from a bird's eye view? I'm excited to share this stunning drone footage captured at University of the Arts London. It's a prime example of how we're elevating project documentation to new heights. 👀 What you're experiencing: Breathtaking aerial perspectives Scale and scope of the project brought to life Expert cinematography set to music Key project features highlighted with on-screen text 🏢 Drone films showcase the true magnitude of your projects. 💡 Imagine using this to: Impress stakeholders Enhance marketing materials Document project milestones Provide unique insights for project management 🎵 Our films are professionally edited with music and text overlays to promote your key messages and brand. Curious about how drone footage could elevate your next big project? Let's talk about creating a bird's-eye masterpiece for your development. Drop a 🎬 in the comments if you'd like to see more examples, or send me a DM to discuss your project needs. #DronePhotography #ConstructionInnovation #PropertyDevelopment #constructionfilm #aerialfilm

The third in our recent series of articles was by Raymond A. Ruge and originally published in the January 1943 issue of "Yachting". magazine discusses hull design and construction on ice boats. Read the latest history blog here >>> https://lnkd.in/gsm6qTkr

One of the areas considered in the Government’s recently published review of the perceived barriers to retrofitting energy efficiency measures into #historichomes in England report, was the planning system. Read our latest blog where BWF Technical Director, Kevin Underwood expands on what the National Planning Policy Framework says about heritage assets and #conservation, how the planning system should be used to ensure well designed and beautiful places, and how these two considerations can have a significant bearing on the choice of timber products, such as windows and doors, for any property or development. https://lnkd.in/efVwEc48 #woodworking #joinery

CT Planning has successfully secured planning permission for the change of use and extension of a former Bothy building to form a new residential dwelling in Stafford. The application site is located in a highly sensitive area, it once formed the original grounds and gardens of the adjacent Grade II* listed Bishton Hall. The site comprises various garden buildings and structures, with the garden area itself is recognized as a non-designated heritage asset. Initial objections were raised by the Conservation Officer regarding the scale and design of the development, and its impact on the setting of nearby heritage assets. CT Planning with support from RPS successfully argued that the dilapidated condition of the present site, appears inconsistent with the modern alterations that have taken place within the immediate surroundings. Therefore, by delivering a sustainable future use for the building, it would help to preserve the historic character and appearance of the Bothy and enhance its contribution to Grade II listed Bishton Hall and Bishton Hall Park. With the assistance of Ecolocation and NOVA Acoustics, concerns relating to ecology and noise impact were also addressed, to successfully bring forward this project. Architect: BHB Architects Noise: NOVA Acoustics Ltd Ecology: Ecolocation Heritage: RPS #stafford #cannockchase #heritage #bishtonhall #changeofuse #planning #development

The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) recently rolled out a new online portal, Portico. Moving forward, all new applications and amendments to previous applications must be submitted using this portal. For more information on this, check out the link below! #LPC #Landmarks #historicpreservation #architecture #design #construction #NYC #HLZAE

Engaging a project arborist from the start of a development ensures that the site's natural assets, especially trees, are integrated into the architectural vision. Following AS 4970-2009 best practices, arborists help retain trees within the site plan, offering crucial reports like preliminary assessments, arboricultural impact assessments, and tree protection plans. This approach effectively preserves the site's best assets, minimises construction impacts, and ensures compliance with local and national legislation, which is crucial for sustainable urban development. These elements are also critical to a successful development. Here is a diagram of the process: https://lnkd.in/gV2wzViK

What do you need to know about rocks during you landscape projects. Rather you are installing swimming pools or excavating for retaining walls. The things you should know. Let me know the challenges you are facing with your landscape projects and I can do more Q&A around the topics. _____________________________________________ P.S. Planning ahead is key to a stress free project. DM me to find out more about how we work. 🥂 Sharing is caring, especially for good things in life. What not share this post with a friend who loves landscape and architecture. #landscapedesign #poolinstallation #retainingwalls #savetimeandmoney

MAPEI Product Solutions are playing a major role in the repair and restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral following the 2019 fire. #MAPEI #industryleader #historicrestoration #innovationinconstruction #structuralstrengthening