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Tom Smith
Global Director, Property and Buildings
Global
Although Heritage buildings pre-date modern standards, their creators were practical people who understood materials and were capable of sophisticated designs. For this reason, if we are to sensitively adapt our heritage buildings so that future generations can enjoy them, we need to understand the craftsmen that designed them, the materials they used, and the assumptions they made.
Although Heritage buildings pre-date modern standards, their creators were practical people who understood materials and were capable of sophisticated designs. For this reason, if we are to sensitively adapt our heritage buildings so that future generations can enjoy them, we need to understand the craftsmen that designed them, the materials they used, and the assumptions they made.
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Heritage insights
What are the best practices for heritage preservation?
Every project is unique and requires a bespoke solution. However, to conserve and protect heritage buildings and sites and preserve their historic and cultural significance, it’s essential to identify the specialist knowledge, skills and techniques required and follow established standards and guidelines.
Our experienced heritage experts have a deep understanding of the practices and principles involved. From the surveys, assessments and documentation needed to develop detailed records and plans, to traditional and modern building methods and materials for preservation, refurbishment and adaptive reuse. Collaboration and community engagement are also key to strategic decision-making - ensuring the social value of an asset is retained and future-proofed along with its physical architecture.
How does heritage restoration differ from other types of building restoration?
Heritage buildings are often home to layers of history embedded in their architecture, with listed assets also protected by law. That means restoration work must be carried out as sensitively as possible to meet modern building standards and user requirements, while restoring and preserving the original fabric of the building including structures and materials.
We help our clients navigate the complexities involved to revitalize and future-proof their older buildings. From upgrading ageing building services with modern sustainable solutions, to enhancing and extending spaces for a new era of cultural value.
How can you protect historic buildings from modern threats?
Climate change, urbanization and the constant need for new infrastructure all have an impact on historic buildings, sites and archaeology. Our multidisciplinary teams work closely with our clients to identify the issues and develop solutions to challenges including seismic activity and extreme weather conditions. Retrofitting upgrades for safety, efficiency and wellbeing, integrating nature-based solutions for sustainability and resilience and using technology to model and test new interventions are three key ways to resolve or mitigate modern threats.
What role does heritage archaeology play in building conservation?
Archaeological expertise is vital to identify, assess and document historical buildings including their features, artifacts and wider surroundings. Our archaeologists work closely with our heritage and environmental specialists to develop the best conservation and restoration strategies and techniques for each project. Helping to preserve and protect heritage buildings and sites, while enriching their historic and cultural significance for communities.
Adaptive reuse enables heritage buildings designed for a bygone era to be reused and repurposed for new needs and generations – while retaining their historical and cultural significance. With our experience of adaptive reuse, we’re helping our clients give their heritage assets a sustainable financial future and find new ways to preserve, protect and celebrate them – often very different to their original intent.