Government Removes Barriers To Retrofitting Historic Homes

Homeowners who want to upgrade the energy efficiency of historic homes will find the process easier after the government published new plans. 

In a press release, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities gave details of the plans, which will allow low carbon heating improvements to be made to older homes of architectural interest.

Listed building restoration projects are carefully regulated to protect the heritage of the nation, and avoid unsightly or inappropriate changes being made that would damage the original character of the building and its surroundings. 

However, owners of properties built before 1919 often have to pay higher energy costs due to the lack of modern energy efficiency measures in their homes. Gaining planning permission to make changes such as installing double glazing, solar panels, or ground source heat pumps can be a slow and difficult process.  

Even if planning permission is granted, it may be necessary to use specific materials that are costly to source and require specially trained contractors to install. As well as relaxing planning rules, the new plans will address skills shortages in the heritage building sector. 

The changes will cover listed buildings and also those that fall within conservation zones, which makes up around 10% of the UK’s overall housing stock. Obtaining permission to retrofit energy efficiency measures will be easier, and the means to carry them out will be more accessible.

Minister for Housing and Communities Baroness Penn said:  “Our historic homes are the jewel in the crown of this country’s heritage and must be protected. ”

“This review will ensure they are preserved for future generations to enjoy, while also improve the lives of those who live in them by reducing their energy costs, supporting us in our shared goal to reach Net Zero by 2050.” 

Minister for Arts & Heritage Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said: “People who own and live in historic homes are their custodians, and want to take responsible action to protect them for the benefit of generations to come.”

“That isn’t always as straightforward as it should be, so this review has looked at how we can make it easier, while continuing to protect our historic environment.”

The government also intends to make information available that is transparent and easily accessible to all, so that historic building owners understand their rights and responsibilities. 

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: “Historic England welcomes this Energy Efficiency Review and the positive actions it highlights. Historic buildings can and must accommodate change if they are to play a crucial role in helping the UK to transition to Net Zero.”

He added: “This review demonstrates that heritage needn’t be a barrier and identifies opportunities to unlock the potential of historic buildings in England to contribute to meeting our Net Zero target.” 

Historic England is currently training its staff in energy efficiency awareness, and how to support the owners of historic buildings to make upgrades without damaging the unique qualities of the building.

Historic Portico Library In Manchester Wins Renovation Funds

The Portico Library in Manchester, a Grade II listed building, has been awarded a £453,000 restoration grant by the The National Lottery Heritage Fund. BBC News reports that the funds will be used to transform the ground floor into a community space, while the upper floors will have architectural and heritage features restored or conserved. 

The city centre library on Mosley Street was built in 1806 as part of the so-called ‘information revolution’ that was sweeping across Europe. It was initially an independent subscription library and newsroom. The idea was inspired by the Athenaeum in Liverpool, and a group of local businessmen raised funds from 400 subscribers across the city.

The building was designed in the Greek Revival style by Thomas Harrison of Chester, and one of its gems is a large circular roof stained-glass window with a border of plasterwork ceiling roses. Among the library’s subscribers were the city’s leading scientists, educators, politicians, and businessmen.

However, women were not permitted to be members of the library until the Married Women’s Property Act of 1870 came into effect. This meant that one of Manchester’s most highly regarded writers, Elizabeth Gaskell, could not read reviews of her own work in the library, despite the fact that her novels were available to read in the book collections.

The library has continued to play an important role in the cultural and intellectual life of the city, with more recent members including the footballer Eric Cantona and the writers Gary Younge and Val McDermid. It’s free to access and holds a wide collection of books, archives, and illustrations. 

The renovations will see the ground floor and basement transformed into a bookshop with space for educational activities and a meeting and event space. The upper floors will be renovated to showcase the manuscript archive and book collections, and the unique architectural features will be restored. 

Library chairman John Carpenter said the redevelopment will create an "accessible and sustainable space for arts, books, learning and history in the library".

He continued: "The news that the fund is supporting the library's bold scheme to open up and share its extraordinary heritage and collection to Manchester residents and visitors is a major cultural signal to Manchester, the North and the UK.

"This visionary project, years in the making, fulfils our mission of working with the many people in Manchester to explore, share, and celebrate their diverse stories and the city's literary and global heritage. Embracing creativity, collaboration and inclusivity, the project will unlock the Library's past to plan for the future."

The project leaders will work with local community groups to help inform their decisions on how the space should be best used. The building will also be made fully accessible to all with the installation of a lift. 

Where To View Art Nouveau Style Architecture In England

The Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th century encompassed art, architecture and interior decoration. It was most often inspired by natural forms such as the flowing lines of plants and flowers. In terms of architecture, it tended towards materials such as iron, glass, ceramics and concrete. 

The first houses in the Art Nouveau style were created in Brussels in the 1890s, and later they began to appear in Paris. The movement peaked around 1900 and by this time its influence was seen throughout Europe, including Britain. There are still some beautiful Art Nouveau style buildings in the UK today.

In Britain, the style had its roots in the Arts and Crafts movement that began in the 1860s and was inspired by mediaeval craftsmanship and the work of artists and designers such as William Morris, Aubury Beardsley, Walter Crane, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Here are some of the finest examples of Art Nouveau style buildings in the UK.

The Zara building, Nottingham

10 Pelham Street and 2A, 2B High Street in Nottingham, were designed by the architect Albert Nelson Bromley between 1902 and 1905 for Boots the Chemist and are now occupied by the fashion chain Zara. The Grade II* listed building has undergone restoration work inside, but the impressive exterior facade remains close to the original design.

The shopfront consists of a glazed terracotta superstructure with a clock on the northwest corner. The cast iron columns and curved glazing at the building entrance remain intact.

Waterstones, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear

The Emerson Chambers on Blackett Street was completed in 1903, and was originally a high-end restaurant with shops and office space above. It was designed by Benjamin Simpson of the architects firm Simpson, Lawson and Rayne, and is a fusion of Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture. 

The distinctive ornate clock prominently displayed on the roof of the building was installed by William Potts in 1904, but wasn’t mechanised until 1965.

Former Everard’s Printing Works, Bristol

The Everard Printing Works in Bristol was built between 1900 and 1901, and bears the name of the founder Edward Everard across the front. The decorative tiled facade was designed by the architect and ceramicist William James Neatby, and features colourful Doulton Carrara ware tiles, which were selected for their close resemblance to marble.

The figurative design depicts the winged Spirit of Literature holding an open book, with the framing figures of Gutenburg (inventor of moveable metal type) and William Morris (leader of the Arts and Crafts movement that revived fine printing). In the upper section of the building is an image of a woman holding a lamp and a mirror, representing light and truth. 

The Royal Arcade, Norwich

The Grade II* listed Royal Arcade in Norwich was built in 1899 and also designed by James Neatby along with the architect George Skipper. It features intricate artwork and beautiful coloured stained glass windows. 

Historic England Reveals Heritage At Risk Register for 2023

Historic England has revealed the latest additions to its ‘Heritage At Risk Register.’ This is the annual round-up of historic sites and structures in England that it considers to be most at risk of being permanently lost as a result of neglect, decay, or inappropriate development. 159 buildings have been added to the register during the past year.

There are now a total of 4,871 entries on the list, with 203 being rescued and preserved since 2022. One of the new candidates for restoration is the Grade II* listed building Holbeche House in the West Midlands, which is noted for being the site where some members of the gunpowder plot were either killed or captured in 1605. 

The building has most recently been used as a care home, but currently stands empty. Local campaigners are attempting to persuade the National Trust to take the building on and open it up for visitors. The house has been listed for both its architectural importance and for its historical significance, as the ringleader of the Gunpowder Plot was shot dead there. 

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive,Historic England, said: “Protecting our heritage is so important. It is truly inspirational to see communities coming together to help save historic buildings and places and find new uses for them. The Heritage at Risk programme shines a light on our historic sites most in need and can help to attract funding and help.”

He added: “After a quarter of a century of the Heritage at Risk Register, we are celebrating how many places have been saved and continue to find new ways to involve local people in caring for and enjoying their heritage.”

The register includes 1,418 buildings and structures, 943 places of worship, 1,916 archaeological sites, 483 conservation areas, 104 parks and gardens, four wrecks and three battlefields. 2023 is the 25th anniversary of the first publication of the Heritage at Risk Register, which began in 1998. 

Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Arts and Heritage Minister, said: “For a quarter of a century, the Heritage at Risk Register has helped to focus efforts to preserve cherished sites across the country.”

He added: “ It is heartening to see that so many sites have had their futures secured and have been taken off the Register over the past year thanks to the hard work of Historic England and local people.”

“ I look forward to the new additions to the Register receiving similar care and attention so that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from our rich heritage for years to come.”

Sites that have been successfully preserved this year include Bourn Mill in Cambridgeshire, which is one of the oldest windmills in England, and Tolpuddle Old Chapel in Dorset, which played an important role in the activities of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, a group of agricultural labourers who were arrested for protesting about their meagre wages.

What Qualities Does A Building With Listed Status Have?

A listed building is a building that is included on a statutory list because it is considered to be of special architectural or historical significance. This raises the interesting question of exactly what qualities a building needs in order to be considered for listing. Here is a closer look at the system and some of some of the key criteria an eligible building should have.

When did the listed building system begin?

The roots of the present system lie in the late 19th century, when John Ruskin and William Morris founded the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB). 

This approach was consolidated by the British government in the post war years of 1944 to 1947, when it was necessary to ascertain which buildings merited saving from the extensive bomb damage to towns and cities. The National Heritage List was created and legislated by the Town and Country Planning Acts.

Three degrees of listing were established in England and Wales: Grade I, Grade II* and Grade II. Over 90% of all listed buildings fall in the Grade II category, with 5.8% in the Grade II* category and just 2.5% in the Grade I category. 

What are the criteria for a listed building?

Initially, most emphasis was placed on the exterior of the building, but by the late 20th century the interior was considered in much more detail. In most circumstances, the building will need to be over 30 years old to be eligible for listing, and the older it is, the more likely it will qualify because it has stood the test of time.

All buildings constructed before 1700 that retain at least some original features are listed, and most buildings dating from between 1700 and 1840 are listed if they have survived in their original state. The definition of a building is broad, encompassing any man-made structure such as bridges, headstones, and even telephone boxes. 

According to Historic England, To be considered of special architectural interest, a building should be a nationally important example of a particular type or technique of building, or have outstanding levels of design, decoration, or craftsmanship. 

From a historical perspective, the building may either have close association with nationally recognized figures, or bear significance to the nation’s social, cultural, economic or military history. The building should also usually have some physical merit to meet the qualifying criteria. 

How does a listing affect a building?

Anyone can nominate a building for consideration for listed status. Historic England is currently prioritising Heritage Action Zones (HAZ) which are places that have underappreciated historical and architectural significance. 

Once a building is listed, consent must be applied for before any changes are made. However, it does not mean that the building must remain preserved in its original state and in some cases, they can undergo restoration or even be extended or altered. 

There is plenty of free advice available on how to maintain or make improvements to listed buildings, and it may be possible to apply for a grant towards the cost from one of the UK’s various heritage organisations and charities.

Swaffam’s Grade II Listed Georgian Assembly Rooms Restored

Swaffham Assembly Rooms in Norfolk have been restored to their former glory after a £200,000 repair and restoration project. The BBC reports that the Grade II listed building was renovated with the help of funding from the High Street Heritage Action Zone, The Iceni Partnership, and Swaffham Town Council.

The building is a classic example of Georgian architecture with elegant arched doorways, large sash windows and decorative cornices. It was built in the marketplace of Norfolk in 1776. The restoration involved repairs to the roof and gutters and a coat of breathable paint.

Cllr Paul Claussen, Executive Member for Economic Development and Growth at Breckland Council, said: "The Swaffham Assembly Rooms restoration project, part of the Swaffham High Streets Heritage Action Zone project led by Breckland Council and Historic England, has helped preserve Swaffham's heritage for generations to come.”

He added: “This project is a shining example of what we can achieve by working together with our key partners, who have a shared vision and commitment to Swaffham's future."

Tony Calladine, Historic England Regional Director for the East of England, said: "It's wonderful to see Swaffham's Assembly Rooms restored to its Georgian elegance and looking resplendent as one of the town's major landmarks.”

He added: “This beautiful building has been the venue for some of the community's most memorable occasions and will continue to be at the heart of local life for years to come."

The Assembly Rooms will become an events venue and host weddings and private functions, and is also home to an indoor market every Friday. The building has a large Ballroom that can fit 100 seated and a smaller Regency room that can accommodate 60 seated.

Restoration Plans For London’s 1930s Saville Theatre

The Grade II listed Saville Theatre in London’s West End will undergo a restoration programme under plans by its new owners. The Stage reports that real estate investment firm Yoo Capital have acquired the theatre, which opened in 1931. The exterior of the building features a distinctive sculptured frieze.

The interior foyer features decorative cornices, while the bar and lounge area display large-scale murals. The theatre was once a live performance and music venue, and has hosted the Bee Gees, the Beatles, and Elton John as well as numerous plays and musicals. However it has only been used as a cinema since 1970. 

Under new plans, the venue on Shaftesbury Avenue could become the first UK home of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil entertainment group who are known for their acrobatic displays, and it will once again host live performances. There will also be new dining spaces and boutique hotel accommodation, if the planning proposals are approved. 

Eric Grilly, president of resident and affiliate show divisions at Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, said: "We are thrilled at the idea of joining forces with Yoo Capital and the Camden community [the borough in which the theatre sits] in rethinking the future of the Saville Theatre.”

He added: "We see a unique opportunity to bring back live entertainment to a beloved venue with fresh content and new ideas."

The Saville Theatre was bought by Brian Epstein in 1960, and thrived as a live music venue, with performances by the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Pink Floyd, and many other famous acts of the era. Following Epstein’s death in 1967, the theatre reverted to its original purpose of staging plays and musicals. In 1970, it was bought by EMI and converted into a cinema.

The theatre was constructed on three levels and had a standing capacity of over 1,500. The front of the building is dominated by a large arched window frame and a 40 ft long stonework frieze that is titled ‘Drama Through the Ages’. The sculpted artwork was created by Gilbert Bayes and a section was displayed in the Royal Academy Exhibition before being installed.

Lloyd Lee, managing partner at Yoo Capital, said: "The Saville Theatre is part of the historical entertainment fabric of London’s world-famous West End.”

“From its origins as a live performance venue that saw everything from plays, musicals and live concerts by the Bee Gees, Elton John and the Beatles to its closure in 1970 and conversion to a cinema, the Saville remains an iconic venue in the heart of London.”

"Yoo Capital is thrilled to have the opportunity to restore the theatre’s original purpose as a live performance space in partnership with the world’s most reputable live performers, Cirque du Soleil, who have chosen to explore the potential for the Saville to be their first ever permanent experience in London."

The plans for an upgrade of the historic theatre are currently undergoing a public consultation and will be submitted for consideration later this year. 

Decorative Plasterwork: The Legacy Of The Victorian Era

Decorative plasterwork such as cornices, ceiling roses, and ornate fireplaces are one of the most sought after features of period homes. They have a timeless charm and elegance, which is why heritage restoration skills are very much in demand today. Here’s a look at how this treasured architectural legacy developed throughout the ages.

Ornate plasterwork has existed since the era of the Roman Empire. However, it wasn’t until the 18th and 19th century that the artform really came into its own, thanks to new techniques such as fibrous plaster. This is composed of plaster of Paris and layers of hessian fabric that is ideal for forming intricate details.  

The trend for decorative plasterwork emerged in the Regency era, coinciding with a time when architecture in the larger British towns and cities was flourishing. This was when many of the grand London townhouses were built. These homes are still highly sought after today for residential and commercial purposes.

They are characterised by generous symmetrical proportions and high ceilings. The wealthier homes were decorated with cornices and ceiling roses with Rococo designs such as leaves, shells, birds, and flowers. This trend was eventually superseded by Neo-classical designs with simpler and more restrained geometric patterns.

By the Victorian era from 1837- 1901, plasterwork in the country’s grander homes and public buildings once again became more elaborate and ornate. This reflected the emerging wealth of a Commonwealth nation that was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution. 

The early Victorian era, up to about 1960, still retained some of the simpler elements of Neoclassicism, but also incorporated stylised nature motifs such as vine leaves and floral designs. As the era progressed, the designs became even more elaborate, drawing on the rich legacy of the Renaissance and Gothic eras. 

The Victorian era is notable for the sheer number of houses that were built, with an estimated six million residences constructed between 1801 and 1901. This rapid expansion reflected not just population growth but also a new wealthier middle class who wanted more spacious and modern homes. 

The building trade expanded rapidly with materials becoming more widely available, and wealthier clients enjoyed the luxury of being able to choose their plasterwork designs from a range of catalogues. The trades became more diversified, with master craftsmen emerging in carpentry, plasterwork, stonemasonry, and so on.

Even the more modest flat-fronted brick terraces of the Victorian era usually featured some form of decorative plasterwork such as swags, mouldings, or dado rails. Richer homeowners would enjoy large moulded ceiling panels that may have featured classical Greek motifs or flowing foliage. 

Many of these charming details have now been expertly restored in public buildings and private residences, helping us to appreciate the glories of the past in our present environment.