Episodes

  • [HBP#10] - Andrew Holloway - Timber Framing - Heritage and Innovation
    Mar 31 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify, Amazon, PocketCasts, and any of your other favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the Heritage Buildings Podcast!

    In this episode, host Vincent Reed sits down with Andrew Holloway, a pioneer in timber conservation and craftsmanship.

    Andrew shares his fascinating journey from being an apprentice potter to becoming a renowned conservation carpenter and the founder of the Green Oak Carpentry Company. He discusses some of his most celebrated projects, including the Wildern Downland Museum Grid Shell and the Savile Gardens Grid Shell, and his dedication to sustainable building practices.

    The conversation delves into the challenges and joys of timber conservation, the importance of teamwork, and the innovative use of modern materials like steel and resins in historic building restoration. Andrew also touches upon his new ventures in wellness and his plans for the future.

    Tune in for an inspiring discussion filled with invaluable insights into the world of historic timber structures.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps

    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section


    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:59 Andrew Holloway's Early Career in Pottery

    09:33 Transition to Carpentry

    11:45 First Major Carpentry Projects

    15:21 Challenges and Learning in Timber Framing

    24:33 Establishing Green Oak Carpentry Company

    34:13 Notable Projects and Growth

    43:28 The Downland Gridshell Project

    58:50 Winning Historic Projects: The Pressure and Challenges

    01:01:23 Navigating Recession and Financial Struggles

    01:04:23 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Business

    01:07:08 Innovative Timber Construction Techniques

    01:15:40 Conservation Carpentry: Skills and Insights

    01:22:48 Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Timber Repairs

    01:34:17 The Role of Resins and Fillers in Conservation

    01:43:07 The Importance of Collaboration in Conservation

    01:48:30 Reflections and Future Endeavors


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    Connect with Andrew Holloway Andrew using the links below:


    Website: www.greenoakcarpentry.co.uk


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenoak_carpentry/


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    Click here to find out more about the Heritage Buildings Association - https://heritagebuildingsassociation.com


    Click here to join...

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    2 hrs and 1 min
  • [HBP #9] Ben Naylor - Preserving The Art of Traditional Joinery
    Mar 17 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify, Amazon, PocketCasts, and any of your other favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the Heritage Buildings Podcast!


    In this episode, host Vincent Reed interviews Ben Naylor, founder of Jack Badger, a company dedicated to bespoke architectural joinery and the preservation of historical building techniques.


    Ben shares his journey from learning traditional stonemasonry with his father to establishing Jack Badger. The discussion covers Ben's commitment to traditional craftsmanship, the company's unique projects, the importance of timber selection, trial and error in mastering techniques, and mentoring the next generation of craftsmen.


    The episode also addresses the relevance of traditional skills in modern times and the challenges and rewards of sustaining a business focused on historical accuracy and artisanal quality.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section



    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Buildings Podcast

    00:07 Meet Ben Naylor: Founder of Jack Badger

    01:16 Ben's Early Influences and Apprenticeship

    03:57 The Birth of Jack Badger

    04:59 Commitment to Traditional Craftsmanship

    07:44 Challenges and Growth

    10:50 Balancing Tradition and Modernity

    14:15 Building a Brand and Expanding the Team

    31:03 The Importance of Photography and Online Presence

    36:03 The Story Behind the Name 'Jack Badger'

    38:46 Maintaining Craftsmanship in a Growing Business

    41:30 Collaborative Design with Studio Macereth

    42:27 Challenges of Working with Bog Oak

    43:43 Precision and Problem-Solving in Joinery

    45:44 Transition to Complex Joinery Projects

    46:43 Building a Skilled Carving Team

    48:23 Moving to a New Workshop

    49:08 Crafting a 15th-Century Style Door

    50:20 The Art of Timber Selection

    50:59 Historical Timber Knowledge and Techniques

    56:19 Modern Challenges with Traditional Methods

    59:27 Moisture Content and Woodworking

    01:04:14 Historical Timber Provenance

    01:22:39 Resurgence of Traditional Joinery Skills

    01:23:20 The Evolution of Craftsmanship

    01:24:25 Specialization in Antique Furniture

    01:26:28 Debate on Using Reclaimed Wood

    01:39:59 Challenges and Notable Projects

    01:46:49 Future of Traditional Joinery

    01:48:44 Encouraging the Next Generation

    01:55:36 The Importance of Teamwork and Work Ethic

    01:59:51 Resources for Learning Traditional Joinery

    02:02:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


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    Connect with Ben Naylor using the links below:


    Website: www.jackbadger.co.uk


    LinkedIn:

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    2 hrs and 4 mins
  • [HBP #8] Maggie Henderson - From Ruins to Revelations: Exploring Historic Buildings Archaeology
    Mar 3 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify. Amazon, PocketCasts and any other of your favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the Heritage Buildings Podcast! In this episode, host Vincent Reed welcomes Maggie Henderson, a leading expert in historic buildings archaeology with over 25 years of experience.

    Maggie shares her journey from a childhood fascination with archaeology to her significant contributions in the field, particularly in timber frame buildings and fabric-based analysis. The discussion delves into the intricacies of building conservation, the challenges of deciphering historic structures, and the rewarding aspects of preserving architectural heritage.


    Maggie also provides advice for aspiring archaeologists and reflects on some of her most memorable projects, including a fascinating medieval undercroft excavation and the discovery of historic artefacts.


    This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone passionate about historic buildings and archaeology.



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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section


    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Building Podcast

    01:01 Maggie Henderson's Journey into Archaeology

    02:17 Specialisation in Historic Buildings

    06:28 Challenges and Rewards of Field Archaeology

    09:13 Significant Discoveries and Projects

    15:32 Transition to the Southeast and Career Growth

    17:52 The Role of Experience in Archaeology

    24:25 Understanding Buildings Archaeology

    53:35 Impact Assessment Tips

    54:03 Appreciating Historical Features

    55:13 Challenges in Building Modifications

    57:16 Role of Impact Assessments

    01:02:35 Heritage Statements Explained

    01:15:48 Memorable Projects and Discoveries

    01:29:22 Advice for Aspiring Building Archaeologists

    01:35:28 Conclusion and Contact Information


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    Connect with Maggie Henderson using the links below:


    Website: https://hbarchaeology.com/


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-henderson-49210065/


    Instagram:

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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • [HBP #7] Laine and Kevin Berry - Our Restoration Nation A shared passion in Heritage Conservation
    Feb 17 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify, Amazon, PocketCasts and any other of your favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the latest episode of the Heritage Buildings podcast, hosted by Vincent Reed.


    In this episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast, Vincent Reed sits down with Laine and Kevin Berry, the dynamic duo behind 'Our Restoration Nation.' From their humble beginnings restoring a single historic home, Laine and Kevin have grown their passion into a movement supporting architectural preservation. They share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in restoring historic properties, including the tragic loss and rebuilding of the iconic Louise house.


    Discover how their unique blend of skills and love for history has fostered a thriving community of like-minded restoration enthusiasts.


    Tune in for their inspiring journey and practical tips on preserving heritage buildings.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section


    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Buildings Podcast

    00:05 Meet Laine and Kevin Berry

    01:07 The Beginnings of a Restoration Journey

    01:52 First Historic Home Purchase

    02:58 Developing a Passion for Antiques and Architecture

    04:05 Challenges and Learning in Restoration

    07:50 The Rise of Restoration Nation

    10:12 Finding and Restoring the Perfect Property

    11:51 The Evolution of Restoration Skills

    12:58 The Financial Side of Restoration

    14:40 The Second Historic Home

    15:10 Differences in Architectural Styles

    19:03 The 1909 Property Restoration

    23:21 Expanding to a Vacation Home

    25:20 The Florida Sea Captain's Home

    27:21 Taking on Monumental Projects

    37:05 The Birth of a Social Media Sensation

    43:55 The Lightning Strike and the Fire

    46:38 The Aftermath and Community Support

    48:10 Dealing with Loss and Moving Forward

    50:25 Rebuilding and New Projects

    01:07:31 Hope Farm: A New Beginning

    01:23:08 Community and Future Plans


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    Connect with Laine and Kevin Berry using the links below:


    Website: ourrestorationnation.com


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourrestorationnation


    Instagram:

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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • [HBP #6] Phillip Gaches - Insights From The Master Plasterer of Historic Buildings
    Feb 3 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify, Amazon, PocketCasts and any other of your favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the latest episode of the Heritage Buildings podcast, hosted by Vincent Reed. In this episode, Vincent interviews Philip Gaches, a master plasterer renowned for his expertise in traditional plasterwork and conservation.

    Philip shares his journey, from joining his family's business to leading Gaches Traditional Plasterers since 1987. Learn about his work on iconic UK landmarks like Royal Palaces and the Houses of Parliament, as well as his international projects in Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Transylvania.

    Through engaging anecdotes, Philip explains the traditional plastering techniques, the importance of conservation, and the evolution of the trade. He also discusses his efforts to train the next generation of plasterers and the future of traditional plastering.


    This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about heritage building restoration.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section


    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Buildings Podcast

    01:25 Philip Gaches' Early Life and Apprenticeship

    02:35 Joining the Family Business

    05:27 Challenges and Learning in the Early Years

    05:49 Daily Routine and Work Ethic

    07:44 Generational Differences in Work Culture

    14:54 Transition to Traditional Plaster Work

    26:01 Understanding Traditional Plaster Work

    28:22 Historical Techniques and Materials

    34:55 The Evolution of Plastering Methods

    52:42 Discovering Historical Artifacts

    54:14 Hidden Treasures in Architecture

    57:16 Challenges of Modern Restoration

    01:01:51 Traditional Techniques and Materials

    01:14:17 International Restoration Projects

    01:25:40 Future of Traditional Trades

    01:41:31 Resources and Recommendations


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    Connect with Philip Gaches using the links below:


    Website: www.gachesplastering.co.uk


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-gaches-291b4a89/


    Instagram:

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    1 hr and 47 mins
  • [HBP #5] Mark Cooper - What 40 Years of Restoring Fine Furniture Taught Me
    Jan 20 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify. Amazon, PocketCasts and any other of your favourite podcasting apps!

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    In this fascinating episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast, host Vincent Reed invites his mentor and friend, Mark Cooper, a traditionally trained conservator and restorer of antique furniture. The episode opens with Vincent recalling his serendipitous start in the antique business as an apprentice in Brighton's Michael Norman Antiques, setting the stage for the deep dive into Mark's storied career.


    Mark shares memorable anecdotes from their early days in the trade, discusses the nuances of restoring period furniture, and explains the myriad skills needed for a successful career in this fading craft. He highlights the intricacies of his work, whether it's replicating a Chippendale chair or stabilising a precious walnut bureau. The conversation also touches upon broader issues facing the industry, such as the lack of apprentice opportunities and the importance of maintaining traditional methods in the face of modern challenges.


    The episode is a treasure trove of insights into the world of antique furniture restoration, blending personal stories with professional expertise, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in heritage crafts.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section



    00:00 Introduction and Personal Story

    01:52 Introducing Mark Cooper

    03:22 Mark Cooper's Early Career

    09:25 The Art of Antique Furniture Restoration

    12:16 Challenges in Modern Restoration

    17:14 Restoration Techniques and Philosophy

    20:26 Hypothetical Restoration Project

    49:56 Making a Chippendale Chair

    54:52 The Art of Carving and Mahogany Quality

    57:18 Challenges and Mistakes in Furniture Making

    58:33 The Process of Carving and Craftsmanship

    01:02:08 The Decline of Traditional Workshops

    01:05:13 Memories of Ship Street Workshop

    01:17:10 The Journey to America and Sotheby's

    01:31:49 Reflections on Craftsmanship and the Future

    01:38:20 The Importance of Continuous Learning

    01:44:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell


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    Connect with Mark Cooper using the links below:


    Website: www.cooperandcompanyantiques.com


    Instagram:

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    1 hr and 48 mins
  • HBP #4 Nigel Copsey - Hot Mixed Lime and Traditional Mortars
    Jan 6 2025

    🎙️ You can also access the full Audio version of this Podcast by searching for 'Heritage Buildings Podcast' on - Apple, Spotify. Amazon, PocketCasts and any other of your favourite podcasting apps!

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    Welcome to the Heritage Buildings Podcast! In this episode, Vincent Reid sits down with Nigel Copsey, a seasoned stonemason and accredited conservator restorer specialising in historic buildings.


    Nigel delves into his journey from a dry stone waller to a renowned advocate for hot mix lime and traditional lime mortars. The discussion covers the importance of using like-for-like materials in conservation, the differences between lime and cement mortars, and the damaging effects of incorrect mortar use on historic buildings.


    Nigel shares his extensive knowledge and experience, detailing the evolution of lime mortar use and the pressing need for sustainable building practices.


    Tune in for an enlightening conversation on preserving our architectural heritage with the right materials and techniques.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section


    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Buildings Podcast

    00:51 Nigel Copsey's Journey into Conservation

    06:37 The Significance of Lime in Building Conservation

    09:44 Differences Between Lime and Cement Mortars

    19:01 Historical Use and Misuse of Mortars

    36:54 Impact of Incorrect Mortar Use on Buildings

    50:47 Understanding Salt Damage in Stone

    52:48 Case Study: Church Restoration in Redditch

    53:23 The Importance of Capillarity in Lime Mortars

    56:56 Historical Insights on Lime Mortar Usage

    59:30 Modern Misconceptions and Correct Practices

    01:17:01 The Future of Lime in Construction

    01:20:15 Global Adoption and Training in Lime Techniques

    01:25:29 Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Lime

    01:33:25 Conclusion and Further Resources


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    Connect with Nigel Copsey using the links below:


    Website: www.hotmixedmortars.com


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-copsey-59745045/


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nigel.copsey.7


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    Click here to find out more about the Heritage Buildings Association - https://heritagebuildingsassociation.com


    Click here to join the conversation - https://heritagebuildings.forum


    👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to support the heritage buildings community!


    #Mortar #conservation #stonemason

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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • [HBP #3] Tim Floyd - Building Materials Scientist & Damp Specialist
    Dec 23 2024

    Welcome to another episode of the Heritage Buildings podcast.

    Understanding Timber Decay with Tim Floyd: Insights from an Expert Architectural Materials Scientist

    In this episode, Vincent welcomes Mr. Tim Floyd, a distinguished architectural materials scientist and chartered surveyor specialising in timber decay.


    They discuss Tim's journey into the heritage field, notable projects, and his philosophy on managing timber decay through environmental control rather than aggressive chemical treatments.


    Tim shares insights on identifying timber decay, common fungi and wood-boring insects in period properties, and the importance of maintaining ecological balances within buildings.


    The episode also delves into modern challenges in the field and offers advice to both professionals and homeowners on preserving the integrity of wooden structures.


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    Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps


    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:12 Tim Floyd's Background and Career Journey

    04:19 Understanding Timber Decay

    16:53 Daily Routine of a Timber Decay Specialist

    28:31 Interesting Projects and Case Studies

    35:53 Exploring Timber Composites

    36:00 Common Causes of Timber Decay

    39:01 Impact of Modern Materials on Timber

    39:53 Understanding Timber Quality and Biodeterioration

    48:08 Fungi in Period Properties

    52:28 Wood Boring Insects

    01:00:51 Challenges and Advice for Timber Preservation

    01:07:46 Conclusion and Resources


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    Connect with Tim Floyd using the links below:


    Website: https://floydconsulting.co.uk


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    Click here to find out more about the Heritage Buildings Association - https://heritagebuildingsassociation.com


    Click here to join the conversation - https://heritagebuildings.forum

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    1 hr and 11 mins