CATEGORY WINNERS
BEFORE
COLONNADE RESTORATION
BRIGHTON
The Theatre Royal, Brighton restoration replaced deteriorated ground-floor terracotta colonnade and balustrade to preserve historic character. Detailed surveys guided bespoke hand-pressed units from Hathern Terra Cotta, accurately replicating originals. Clay maquettes and moulds ensured precision, while kiln-fired pieces allowed for shrinkage. Installation used latex grout, stainless dowels, and bespoke fixings. Early coordination mitigated long lead times and production risks. The project prioritised sustainability through durable materials, UK sourcing, reduced future interventions, and apprenticeship training supporting heritage skills and craft retention.
Submitted by: Paye Stonework and Restoration. www.paye.net
Architect / Designer: Lawray Architects
Main Contractor: Conamar Building Services
Project Manager: Tom Biggins
Subcontractors: Paye Stonework and Restoration
Other: Peter Dann (Structural Engineering)
CLOSE UP
ROYAL PAVILION, MASONRY REPAIRS PHASE IV
BRIGHTON
Phase IV of the Brighton Pavilion restoration focused on conserving vulnerable external elements, including windows, render, stone minarets, and the prominent Onion Dome. Detailed investigations uncovered significant structural decay caused by historic water ingress, requiring extensive conservation-led repairs. Traditional materials, breathable coatings, and like-for-like oak replacements preserved historic integrity while improving durability. Complex structural interventions were carefully managed through collaborative conservation expertise and sensitive craftsmanship. The project successfully safeguarded the Pavilion’s architectural character, demonstrating best practice in sustainable heritage restoration and long-term preservation.
Submitted by: Paye Stonework and Restoration, www.paye.net
Architect / Designer: Julian Harrap Architects LLP
Main Contractor: Paye Stonework & Restoration Ltd
Project Manager: Jo Hatwell at RPMT
Subcontractors: Phoenix Scaffolding Ltd | Hugh Anthony Ltd All Roofing Solutions Ltd
Other: Julian Harrap Architects LLP
HIGHLY COMMENDED
INTERIOR
BALCOMBE PIT BARNS
GLYNDE
The regeneration and redevelopment of the main barn and its surrounds has delivered strong commercial value through creation of flexible, high quality business space in an attractive well-connected rural location, meeting keen demand in East Sussex. The project has retained the historic barn’s original character while enabling modern day use through demolition of poor quality later additions and sensitive new-build elements in brick and flint work with clay tile roofing. Technically, works involved extensive underpinning, masonry stabilisation and a hybrid structural solution combining retained fabric with bespoke oak framing, ensuring durability, adaptability and long-term economic viability.
Submitted by: MJB Architecture
Architect / Designer: Mike Barber – MJB Architecture
Main Contractor: JH Payne & Sons Ltd
Project Manager: Mike Barber
Other: Jason Lee & Max Swayne (Glynde Estates Buildings Maintenance & Development Team) | Benn Rimmington,
Will Butler, Austin Kent-Gillison & Pete Penfold (Glynde Estates Grounds & Landscape Team) | Laurence Hill & Josh Grey (Glynde Place Gardens Team) | Simon Watkin (Flintwork) Cherry Gates (automated gate/system)