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Heritage works
Heritage restoration is a highly specialised craft, requiring a deep understanding of both historical architecture and modern conservation techniques
When expertly executed, the careful restoration of these iconic structures not only preserves their historical significance but also ensures their relevance for generations to come
History of heritage buildings & assets
At Vision Arch, we are dedicated to preserving and revitalising historic structures, ensuring they continue to enrich our communities for generations to come. Our Heritage Works service specialises in the conservation and restoration of at-risk buildings, respecting their historical significance and craftsmanship. By collaborating closely with local stakeholders and heritage organisations, we develop innovative solutions that bring new life to these architectural treasures, maintaining their legacy for the future.
The history of heritage structures is deeply rooted in the rich architectural and cultural heritage of our communities. These buildings, often centuries old, have witnessed the changing landscapes of society. They represent the craftsmanship and vision of past generations, and their preservation is vital in maintaining the story of our shared history.
Heritage assets in the UK are a testament to the nation’s rich history, spanning various architectural styles, time periods, and cultural influences. These structures have shaped local identities and continue to serve as symbols of national pride. Many of these assets are protected under heritage preservation laws, ensuring that their value is recognised and conserved for both historical and educational purposes.
The Arch approach
At Vision Arch, we pride ourselves on our expertise in delivering high-quality heritage works, demonstrated through projects like the restoration of Kew Gardens’ iconic Temperate House, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and more recently the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.
Kew Gardens, Temperate House
This five-year restoration project involved the meticulous restoration and replacement of the 1970s patent glazing sections of the Grade I listed building, ensuring its continued prominence in plant science. Our team managed the complex task of removing and replacing 15,000 panes of glass and restoring the glazing rafters, all while maintaining the building’s original architectural features.
We also designed and installed a new opening window operating system, incorporating sensors for wind, rain, and temperature, to maintain the temperate climate critical for the conservation of the 1,500 plant species housed within. This project highlights our ability to combine heritage preservation with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that the Temperate House remains a globally significant space for plant conservation.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
We expertly managed the restoration of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s Victorian glasshouse, replacing 5,000 panes of glass, repairing ironwork, renewing gutters, and replacing damaged stonework. This project aims to avoid the loss of up to 6,000 species by restoring the glasshouses and delivering new infrastructure, while also making the two palm houses more energy-efficient. Due to the building’s historic significance, we developed a bespoke solution that involved carefully removing and recreating the unique Victorian glazing. Each glass pane was accurately modelled and replaced, ensuring the preservation of the building’s original character while bringing it up to modern standards.
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
We led the restoration of the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, focusing on the replacement of 2,500 m² of roof glazing and clerestory windows. This new rooflight, designed, supplied, fabricated, and installed by our team, resolved issues with watertightness and overheating and enhanced acoustic performance in the covered atrium. We used the Raico System for the rooflight and the Schüco AWS70 System for the clerestory windows, integrating automatic opening vents and coordinating with the building management system. This project helped preserve and enhance the Museum's historic building, allowing visitors to continue experiencing its vast collection in an improved, energy-efficient space.
Our commitment
At Vision Arch, we are committed to preserving the integrity of heritage buildings through meticulous restoration and bespoke solutions. Whether it’s restoring the iconic Kew Gardens Temperate House, conserving the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s Victorian glasshouses, or improving the National Maritime Museum’s roof glazing, our team applies innovative techniques and deep respect for history to each project.
With a focus on both preserving architectural character and addressing modern needs, we ensure that these historic sites continue to serve future generations, combining our expertise in conservation with a passion for maintaining the legacy of the past.
