Buttress to develop feasibility study for historic J.W. Evans Silver Factory

Buttress has been appointed by English Heritage to develop a feasibility study for the Grade II* listed J.W. Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

The practice will work alongside quantity surveyors, PMP Consultants, commercial valuers, Cushman and Wakefield, and enterprise consultant, DP Waterfall, to identify potential uses and operating models for the site.

The study will explore a number of options for J. W. Evans. These will identify potential approaches to ensure that the site operates in a manner which supports its long-term future, while conserving its historic and cultural significance.

Options for the site will be informed by a series of consultation workshops with English Heritage and key stakeholders. The practice will also work with English Heritage to identify funding opportunities that will help make the site more accessible to new and existing audiences.

Established in 1881, J. W. Evans is one of the most complete surviving historic factories in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter. Behind the frontage of four terraced houses, the workshops retain their original drop stamps and fly presses. The rooms are packed with thousands of dies for the manufacture of silverware, as well as the whole of the working equipment, stock and records of the business.

Senior Architect, Edward Kepczyk, said: "The J.W. Evans Silver Factory is an exceptional example of Birmingham’s manufacturing heritage and contributes immeasurably to the Jewellery Quarter’s distinct character and international significance. We are pleased to be working with English Heritage to maximise J.W. Evans' potential as a cultural and heritage asset to ensure that it has a viable and sustainable future.”