In this issue, you will learn more about our new website and brand refresh, the Civic Trust AABC Conservation Award winners and a new conservation group called Heritage Connect. If you have anything you would like to see in a future newsletter, please let us know. 

We're excited to introduce our refreshed brand identity. A new, clean design underpinned by a classic and timeless typeface. This approach to our brand harmonises tradition and modernity seamlessly.

What's New?

1. Redesigned Logo: Our new logo captures the spirit of modernity and dynamism while honouring our heritage.

2. New Color Palette: New colours which reflect our heritage background.

Have an explore our recently launched website.

The website showcases our refreshed brand identity and offers an enhanced user experience. You'll find updated content, improved navigation, and exciting features designed to better serve you.

A Fresh Look: Immerse yourself in our updated digital aesthetic, harmonising functionality with style.

Enhanced Navigation: Find what you need quickly through improved site organisation and user-friendly navigation.

Rich Content: Delve into our updated content offerings designed to inform, inspire, and connect.

Updated Guidance Notes: Guidance notes explaining how to apply, what to include in case studies and how we assess them.

Email us if you have any feedback on how we can further develop our website. 

Projects which demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation and make an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.

The restoration and conservation of Hardwick Old Hall, a captivating ruin from the late 16th century, undertaken by dedicated architects, represents a harmonious blend of architectural prowess, thoughtful design considerations, and innovative conservation techniques. 

Judges’ Comments: The project not only breathes new life into a historic ruin but also safeguards its unique construction techniques for generations to come.

The Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings stands as a testament to Historic England’s innovative approach to heritage-led regeneration, conservation, and sustainable development. 

Judges’ Comments: “The Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings, now reborn as a vibrant business hub and heritage destination, stands as a beacon of successful heritage-led regeneration, showcasing the delicate balance between preserving the past and embracing the future.”

Alexander Pope’s Grotto, an enchanting Grade II* structure, unfolds a captivating tale of architectural brilliance, eclectic design, and intricate conservation.

Judges’ Comments: “The conservation of Alexander Pope’s Grotto not only preserves a unique architectural gem but also illuminates the story of the Grotto, its history, and its diverse collection, ensuring that this historical marvel continues to captivate and educate visitors for generations to come.”

Projects which demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation and make a significant contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.

For further details about the consultant teams and the photographer, please visit the Civic Trust Award Online Brochure using the link below.

Heritage Connect is a group for young conservation professionals and students. They are a group set up by 5 young people to encourage younger people to become interested in conservation. 

They sought support from various conservation bodies and held their first meeting at the end of February. Heritage Connect presented briefly at the meeting about their strapline Connect-Educate-Create following their peer group survey that established both interest and commitment.

The survey indicated the following key points:

• Perceived barriers to the profession of cost associated with qualifications
• Lack of knowledge of opportunities and societies
• Challenges of existing industry practices vs climate challenge/environment considerations
• Confusion over which societies to join/use/connect

Further to their strapline of Connect-Educate-Create, they set out their overall objectives of Coordinate-Signpost-Opportunities.

We will work with Heritage Connect to help bring young conservation architects into the AABC and help signpost others to relevant organisations that can help them.

AABC 25th Anniversary Conference

This year's conference will be held at Rochdale Town Hall, a Grade I listed building designed by William Crossland, which opened in 1871 to symbolise the town’s rich industrial standing in the textile trade. According to Historic England, its ornate styling interiors are rivalled only by the Palace of Westminster. A multi-million-pound restoration to transform the building began in 2021, and the third phase will be continuing on the west side at the time of the conference.

We will use The Great Hall, which is adorned with stained glass representations of England’s monarchs, from William the Conqueror to Victoria and Albert. The vaulted space of The Great Hall is truly magnificent and a sight to see, the decorative ceiling panels having recently been restored.

The Conference is open to members and non-members of the AABC register, and we look forward to seeing you all in October.

Welcome to the following new members who have recently gained AABC Conservation Accredited status.

Matthew Wilde & Neil Turner