Ecclesiastical buildings in particular are intrinsic to the fabric of communities the length and breadth of the UK, many are listed, and many still retain their original use. Those that do, adapt and change over time, sometimes slowly, sometimes radically, but when done successfully they remain constantly and recognisably of their place and community.
Buttress work with buildings of varying scale and communities of all faiths. Our portfolio of projects includes cathedrals, churches, synagogues, chapels of rest and cemeteries with works ranging from conservation and repair to reordering, to adaptation and new design interventions.
Conservation and repair
Many of the buildings we work with are listed and our approach to their management and care is directed by their significance. Maintaining the fabric may include stone and roof repair (for example) to small areas of concern or a larger project may be required to safeguard the condition and significantly improve building maintenance. Where we can, we employ new technologies and knowledge in our design approach, facilitating improved detailing and avoiding issues from reoccurring. We consider environmental performance on all projects and promote opportunities to improve building performance and reduce carbon footprints.
Where conservation is required to significant fabric and detail we will develop and agree a conservation philosophy and designs appropriate to support and enhance that significance.
St Leonard’s Middleton shortlisted for King of Prussia Gold Medal
The award recognises the best in church conservation or repair projects.
Church of the Ascension rises from the ashes
The fire-damaged church has been saved after a five-year restoration project.
Conserving Lincoln Cathedral: The Gallery of Kings
Conserving one of Europe's most significant cathedral edifices.
Access and adaptation
When historic places do not meet modern access standards we must look for ways in which to address this whilst working within the context and significance of their heritage.
We recognise that ecclesiastical buildings by their very nature are intrinsically linked to the community. They contain generations of memories and can be representative of an area’s cultural, social, and religious heritage. We work with our clients and their communities to find ways in which to promote access to this heritage and retain these precious and beautiful buildings in active and beneficial use. When working with faith buildings, we treat them with sensitivity – combining respect for the past with thoughtfully designed solutions to safeguard these important buildings for the future.
New interventions
Our new designs might stand alone or add to and adapt existing places of worship. All are bespoke approaches created with sensitivity and clarity. We will add contemporary and sophisticated new designs to existing places that complement and celebrate what is special about them in the first place.
Edward Kepczyk
Edward specialises in the conservation, informed repair, and creative reuse of secular and ecclesiastical buildings, including some of the country’s most significant historic sites.
Steve Welsh
Steve will be a familiar face to many of our ecclesiastical clients, with whom he has worked for over 30 years on the full range of survey and detailed design services on historic listed buildings across the country.
His exemplary attention to detail has secured him important levels of responsibilities on commissions involving buildings of national and international importance.
Courtnay Ives
Courtnay is an architect whose experience includes a range of specialisms with heritage, ecclesiastic and non-secular schemes.
