Although we have not historically supported the use of colourless water-repellents on historic masonry, there is a new generation of ‘breathable’ products about which that we're increasingly being asked. This research will add to a wider body of evidence that will inform the SPAB’s position on these products.
News
We were recently consulted on proposed changes to St George’s in West Grinstead, Sussex to accommodate its bat population. We asked The Bats in Churches Project, to tell us more about protecting historic buildings and bats.
Our event is going ahead this year, though with arrangements in place to ensure the safety of our volunteers, specialists and staff.
We are very excited that this summer leading craftspeople and specialists will carry out urgent roof repairs at St Andrew’s, Boxley. With their help we will make some new handmade tiles and can conserve as much of the original roof as possible.
Despite a campaign to save it, this splendid building was demolished in 1890 and its oak frontage hangs in the V&A museum; an early example of facadism in this area of London.
In May our enthusiastic, hard-working and reforming Chair Iain Boyd stepped down in after six years steering the Society. Here Iain reflects on his tenure.
Street and place names prompt SPAB Scholar Bethan Watson to consider the lost country houses in her neighbourhood.
To celebrate we asked SPAB Scholar Tríona Byrne to write about her work as a conservation engineer
The original design of the square allowed for generous provision of green space to deal with 'spiritual matters’ of the day, all of which continues to be appreciated by residents today. SPAB Scholar Lilian Tuohy Main writes from North London.
It is with great sadness that we announce the recent death of Janet Locke. Janet was a SPAB Scholar in 1950 along with Donald Insall, Cecil Searle, Peter Locke and Pamela Cunnington. She will be remembered as an intelligent and sensitive architect.