Conservation and construction – the perks and the pitfalls of owning a listed building

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Listed buildings, by definition, are unusual, full of character and can make unique homes and offices.

But making the changes necessary for modern living can be complex and expensive. Knowing the ins and outs from the get-go is essential. Getting it wrong can mean a hefty fine or, at worst, a custodial sentence! Read more

Stuntney Old Hall Orangery Opening

The Old Hall opens stunning new orangery

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The eagerly awaited opening of the Orangery at The Old Hall, in Ely, is doubly exciting for us. We have worked on the restoration of the Jacobean manor house for over 20 years – first as a family home, then as a bed and breakfast and eventually creating the exclusive venue for weddings, private functions and restaurant dining. Read more

The challenge of designing coastal buildings

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Water – and its proximity – can dramatically influence architecture. Here Shaun Soanes explores the design and stability of buildings by the coast.

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Archaeology is a consideration in construction

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This week the Leicester car park under which Richard III’s body was discovered has been given special protection as an archaeological site of national importance. Here Shaun Soanes explains why archaeology has become an increasingly important consideration of construction, development and refurbishment projects.

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Preserving our ghost stories for generations to come

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Last month Eight Ghosts, a book of ghost stories based on famous English Heritage sites, went on sale – much to the delight of the general public. Here, Shaun Soanes, who has worked on a number of historical buildings boasting tales of the unexpected, explains why mysterious occurrences just add another element of intrigue to his work.

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