Blog

Georjie Adams on the life changing confidence that comes from working with your hands.

Carolyn Simons uncovers the layers of Biddulph Old Hall on a Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Group visit.

Rachel Stoplar, Communications Manager, explores the many guises of this historic site – from resting place to rubbish tip – and why it has the internet to thank for its survival.

Our Old House Project is rescuing and repairing a Grade II* building ‘at risk’, but it is the education and training, and the opportunity to demonstrate the SPAB Approach to building conservation, that give it added value for us. The skilful work carried out by the many craftspeople involved in the project so far has exemplified SPAB principles. That most recently undertaken by Owlsworth IJP and their subcontractors adds to the range of materials and techniques on show.

Stonemason and SPAB Fellow Jack Buchanan describes a visit to Pluscarden Abbey, where reverence for the past, coupled with a willingness to adapt and repurpose, creates a harmonious coexistence between the ancient ruins and a vibrant, living community. 

Author Brian Hoggard explains some of the fascinating methods people have used to protect their homes. 

The fire at Clandon Park was a tragedy, but one from which something new and positive can emerge. 

This Black History Month, we’re digging into our Archive to find out what happened to the home of Cesar Picton, one of Britain’s first Black "gentlemen".

During the late spring and early summer, work at the Old House Project (OHP) moved forward steadily - but gently - in the hands of the very capable craftspeople at Owlsworth IJP. Stonemason Jim Roberts continued masonry repairs and carpenter Callum McCaffrey applied his skills to window joinery. Volunteer Mark Murthwaite-Price oversaw the burning of local grey chalk in our field kiln to produce quicklime for mortar. As July approached, Mark upped his output significantly to stockpile lime for our Boxley Abbey Working Party week.

Architects of the ancient world were not like the architects we know today. Author and architect Eleanor Jolliffe considers the emergence of the professional architect and the changing nature of the profession.