Preserving the Past, Building the Future: CGA's Expertise in Historical Restoration
At Clive Graham Associates (CGA), we are proud of our long-standing commitment to restoring and preserving some of the UK’s most cherished historical buildings. With each project, we blend modern techniques with a deep respect for history, ensuring that heritage sites are not only maintained but enhanced for future generations. From centuries-old churches to Grade I listed landmarks, our work reflects the dedication and skill required to take on such significant restorations.
Working with Heritage Consultants and Specialist Architects
A key aspect of our success in historical restoration is our collaboration with heritage consultants and specialist heritage architects. These experts play an integral role in each project, offering invaluable insight into maintaining the authenticity of these historic sites. From understanding the intricacies of period architecture to ensuring compliance with preservation regulations, their guidance ensures that our restorations are both respectful and meticulous.
St Augustine’s Church, Hammersmith: A Brighter Future for a Historic Building
One of our standout projects is the restoration of St Augustine’s Church in Hammersmith. This 17-week project, valued at £750k, was part of a broader regeneration effort. CGA transformed the church’s interior into a light-filled, welcoming space while preserving its historical charm. We carefully protected and restored existing features, including paintings, balustrades, Terrazzo stone, columns, beams, and timber trusses. The result is a brighter, more open space that showcases hidden details of the church’s original craftsmanship, now revealed through careful restoration.
Hoare’s Bank, Fleet Street: Modernizing the Old Partner’s Room
Hoare’s Bank, the UK’s oldest privately owned bank, tasked CGA with the refurbishment of their historic Old Partner’s Room. Over 15 weeks, our team carefully modernized the space, integrating new technical services while preserving its historical elements. We worked on detailed restorations, including oak panelling, fibrous plaster, and a grand fireplace. The project perfectly demonstrates CGA’s ability to blend modern upgrades with historical preservation, maintaining the room’s elegance and significance.
Colworth House: Bringing New Life to a Grade II Listed Manor
Our work at Colworth House, a Grade II* listed manor in Bedfordshire, reflects CGA’s capability to handle large-scale historical renovations. The 22-week project involved transforming this historic site into a modern office space, while maintaining its architectural integrity. After removing asbestos and stripping out old fixtures, we meticulously restored features such as original Parquet flooring. We also modernized the space with new joinery, ironmongery, and technical upgrades, successfully delivering the project ahead of schedule.
St Andrews by the Wardrobe Church: A Complex Upgrade
One of the more complex historical projects we completed was at St Andrews by the Wardrobe Church, originally built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1695. Over the course of 20 weeks and during the height of the pandemic, CGA undertook the modernization of the church’s mechanical, electrical, and life support systems. Key challenges included insulating the roof void and concealing modern services within the church’s listed elements. By working closely with specialist joiners and mechanical contractors, we ensured that the upgrades met modern standards while preserving the church’s historical character.
Bruce Castle Museum: Preserving a Community Treasure
In one of our most significant ongoing projects, CGA has been entrusted with the £860k refurbishment of the Grade I listed Bruce Castle Museum in Tottenham. This 42-week project, in collaboration with heritage architects Rodney Melville + Partners and quantity surveyors Playle & Partners, involves structural repairs, creating new gallery spaces, upgrading fire safety, and carrying out internal improvements. Scheduled for completion in Spring 2025, this project highlights our ability to work with local councils and secure important funding, such as the Museum Estate and Development Funding (MEND), to preserve vital community landmarks.
The Importance of Collaboration in Historical Restoration
Each historical restoration project requires a tailored approach, combining modern techniques with a respect for history. Our success is largely due to our strong partnerships with heritage consultants and specialist architects. Their expertise helps us navigate the complexities of listed buildings, ensuring that every detail, from joinery to lighting, meets historical preservation standards while incorporating modern functionalities.
Why Choose CGA for Historical Restoration?
At CGA, we understand that historical buildings are more than just structures—they are symbols of cultural heritage and community identity. Whether it's restoring churches, banks, or museums, our team is committed to delivering projects that respect the past while embracing the future. With every project, we ensure that history is preserved, safety and accessibility are enhanced, and the building is ready for continued use by future generations.
