We believe the key to successful projects is a good understanding of the demands of the commission and a close working relationship with clients. Our integrated, coherent approach producing quality design solutions meeting the brief and providing value for money. We always strive to deliver projects which inspire and possess the added ‘Wow Factor’. This is demonstrated by the prestigious awards we have received for some of the projects.
We are proud to have been involved in the rescue of a number of condemned, derelict and redundant historic buildings for which new uses have been found in order to secure their future for the benefit of future generations. These include conversion of old agricultural, domestic, education and ecclesiastical buildings, of which some have been Grade I and Grade II* Listed. Our success is demonstrated by the prestigious conservation and civic awards we have received.
In altering or extending an historic building we consider the way its use may change over time so it remains relevant for the foreseeable future in order to secure its long term care.
In altering or extending an historic building we consider the way its use may change over time so it remains relevant for the foreseeable future in order to secure its long term care. There needs to be a balance between respect for the old and celebration of the new. Any scheme should also successfully project the dedication, vision and aspirations of the building owner as well as promote the opportunities the building offers and potentially be able to accommodate new uses.
We are proud to have been involved in the rescue of a number of condemned, derelict and redundant historic buildings for which new uses have been found in order to secure their future for the benefit of future generations. These include conversion of old agricultural, domestic, education and ecclesiastical buildings, of which some have been Grade I and Grade II* Listed. Our success is demonstrated by the prestigious conservation and civic awards we
have received.
We consider the ongoing care and repair of historic buildings a great privilege and with it comes the huge responsibility to safeguard the fabric of these buildings for the benefit of future generations. Our philosophy is to maintain as much of the existing fabric as possible and limit any interventions in order to preserve the intended role of the historic fabric. We always strive to deliver projects which inspire. No scheme should however irreversibly damage the original structure or harm its significance.
Richard Crooks achieved conservation accreditation in 1999 which over subsequent years has led to the appointment as lead consultant for many historic building projects and inspecting architect to over fifty churches in Yorkshire, including a number of Listed Grade I, Grade II* and Grade II buildings.
Our Practice operates its own Quality Management System developed over the life of the company and which is regularly reviewed in order to remain relevant to the ever-changing construction industry.
On most of our projects we co-ordinate the other disciplines that may be involved and the project from inception to completion on behalf of our clients.
We are very proud of both our work and our relationship with our clients. Here are snippets of testimonials from judges of some of our award-winning schemes.
“I must say that the building looks absolutely wonderful. It is so good to see it looking so good after it became so dilapidated. Also, the new mezzanine, glazed partitions, loos etc are amongst the best I have seen.”
“It is pleasing to see a clever, well-articulated series of divisions and transformations to this lofty, voluminous church. The divisions have achieved with great transparency and the minimum of interference with the stone work of the original building fabric. The raised plinth around the altar, together with new joinery items, have been handled with appropriately-detailed craftsmanship.”
“We thank you for the work you have undertaken recently to keep us heading down the right track to protect the building for the long term. The contraints of working with English Heritage and the complexities with a building of such age have become apparent to us over the last couple of years; your guidance in bringing us to the point where we have a sensible approach from a recognised firm, and realistic budget, is greatly appreciated.”
“The sheer ambition of this whole project as well as the quality of the work which the judges found inspiring. This previously redundant church, on both the local and national 'Heritage At Risk' registers, was brought back into use for worship by Leeds 'Gateway', achieved by gradual, comprehensive conservation of this large building through a phased programme of work spanning 6 years. It is impressive, and unusual, that this young church community chose to rescue a beautiful badly neglected, historic church, with all the complexity and risk that such a project entails”.
(Nation Churches Trust and Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association)
We believe the key to successful projects is a good understanding of the demands of the commission and a close working relationship with clients. Our integrated, coherent approach produces quality design solutions meeting the brief and providing value for money. We always strive to deliver projects which inspire and possess the added ‘Wow Factor’. This is demonstrated by the prestigious awards we have received for some of the projects.
