Directory
Pages for Companies and Organizations
Crenellated Arts specializes in illustration and digital interpretation services for the arts and heritage sectors in the UK, offering tailored solutions for building conservation professionals, homeowners, and enthusiasts. Their mission is to preserve, celebrate, and reimagine the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the UK through innovative visual storytelling. By blending artistry with historical accuracy, the company supports projects that require engaging, detailed visuals to bring historic structures, sites, and narratives to life.
At the core of Crenellated Arts’ offerings are bespoke illustrations and reconstructions of historic buildings and environments. These creations range from detailed technical drawings and watercolour renderings to immersive digital reconstructions. With a deep understanding of architectural heritage and conservation principles, the company ensures that each illustration is both visually compelling and meticulously accurate. Their work often serves as a key resource for conservation reports, restoration projects, and public education campaigns.
In addition to static illustrations, Crenellated Arts provides digital interpretation services designed to enhance engagement with historic sites and narratives. Using cutting-edge tools such as 3D modeling, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR), they create interactive experiences that allow users to explore reconstructed spaces or visualize changes over time. These tools are invaluable for museums, heritage sites, and educational programs, offering audiences a dynamic way to connect with history.
Crenellated Arts also supports private homeowners and enthusiasts by delivering customized illustrations and interpretive materials for historic homes and gardens. Whether documenting the restoration of a Georgian townhouse or illustrating the original layout of a medieval estate, the company helps clients understand and showcase the historical significance of their properties. These services include creating house histories, interpretive signage, and artistic renderings suitable for personal collections or public display.
Ultimately, Crenellated Arts serves as a bridge between the past and present, making history accessible and engaging for a wide range of audiences. Their work celebrates the UK’s architectural heritage while providing practical tools and resources for its preservation. With a commitment to artistry, authenticity, and innovation, Crenellated Arts stands out as a trusted partner for anyone passionate about understanding and preserving historic spaces.
The Centre for Building Conservation Studies (CBCS) is a UK-based institution dedicated to advancing the field of building conservation through comprehensive education and hands-on training. Established in 2019, CBCS aims to become a central hub for learning and discovery in building surveying and conservation. Their mission is to make conservation accessible to everyone by offering specialised courses and training sessions led by established experts, emphasizing practical experience and the application of the latest conservation philosophies and technologies.
CBCS offers a diverse range of courses tailored to various experience levels, from undergraduates and homeowners to industry professionals. Their programs include informative Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions and Level 6 Diplomas in Building Surveying and Building Conservation. These diplomas are designed to provide participants with the skills necessary to conduct surveys of residential, commercial, ecclesiastical, and industrial buildings, as well as to work in property development, heritage sectors, and construction projects. The curriculum covers a wide range of building ages, types, uses, and conditions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field.
A distinctive feature of CBCS's programs is the inclusion of practical experience through site visits and hands-on tasks. Participants attend the Building Conservation Summer School and engage in international study trips to explore historic sites and contemporary conservation challenges. For instance, in 2025, the Building Surveying Diploma includes a trip to Copenhagen, while the Building Conservation Diploma offers a visit to Bucharest. These experiences are designed to provide real-world insights into the complexities of building conservation on a global scale.
CBCS is also developing a dedicated learning center in a Grade II Listed Building in Gosport, Hampshire. This former Royal Navy property is being transformed into a vibrant community space for heritage skills training, arts, and culture. The facility will offer training in various traditional building skills, including roofing, lime work, carpentry, oak framing, stone masonry, and straw bale construction. This initiative underscores CBCS's commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship and promoting sustainable conservation practices.
For building conservation professionals, homeowners, and enthusiasts, CBCS provides an invaluable resource for gaining practical skills, professional qualifications, and a deeper understanding of historic building conservation. Their flexible approach, combining online learning, classroom instruction, and practical site visits, ensures accessibility and affordability. By fostering a passion for conservation and offering hands-on experience, CBCS equips individuals with the knowledge and confidence to care for and preserve historic buildings effectively.
Triskele Heritage is a UK-based organization dedicated to the conservation, restoration, and celebration of historic buildings and landscapes. With a mission to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern conservation practices, Triskele Heritage provides tailored services that empower building conservation professionals, homeowners, and heritage enthusiasts. The company’s work reflects a profound respect for cultural heritage, emphasizing sustainable approaches that honor the authenticity and integrity of historic sites.
At the heart of Triskele Heritage’s mission is the belief that historic buildings are not just structures but living legacies that tell the story of communities, craftsmanship, and culture. The company offers a diverse range of services, including specialist consultancy, condition assessments, and bespoke conservation training. These services are designed to equip professionals and enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools needed to preserve historic structures while maintaining compliance with national heritage standards.
For building conservation professionals, Triskele Heritage provides expert guidance on project planning, materials selection, and traditional techniques. The company’s hands-on training workshops are particularly valued, offering opportunities to learn time-honored methods such as lime plastering, stone masonry, and timber conservation. These sessions not only enhance technical expertise but also foster a deeper appreciation of the skills required to maintain historic buildings.
Homeowners with historic properties benefit from Triskele Heritage’s personalized approach to conservation and restoration. Whether addressing specific issues such as damp management or guiding long-term maintenance planning, the team offers practical, sustainable solutions that respect the character and history of the home. Their advice is grounded in a thorough understanding of traditional building materials and methods, ensuring that interventions are both effective and sympathetic to the property’s heritage.
Triskele Heritage also serves as an invaluable resource for heritage enthusiasts, hosting lectures, community engagement programs, and curated site visits that bring the stories of historic buildings to life. Through these initiatives, the company aims to inspire a wider audience to value and engage with the UK’s rich architectural legacy. In everything they do, Triskele Heritage combines technical expertise with a genuine passion for heritage, making them a trusted partner for anyone invested in preserving the past.
The Victorian Society in the UK is a leading authority dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and design. Founded in 1958, its mission is to protect the rich architectural and cultural heritage from the 1837–1914 period, which saw some of the most innovative and iconic building styles in British history. By raising awareness of the historical and aesthetic significance of these structures, the Society plays a pivotal role in ensuring their survival for future generations.
For building conservation professionals, the Victorian Society offers an invaluable resource, providing expert advice and access to comprehensive research and case studies. Through its work with local authorities, heritage bodies, and property developers, the Society influences planning decisions, ensuring that listed buildings and conservation areas are safeguarded. Its publications, such as The Victorian magazine, and detailed reports on architectural conservation issues, are essential tools for professionals in the field.
Homeowners of Victorian and Edwardian properties benefit significantly from the Society's expertise. The organization provides guidance on sympathetic restoration and maintenance practices, ensuring that the architectural integrity and original features of these homes are preserved. Through workshops, seminars, and a network of specialist contacts, the Society empowers owners to make informed decisions about their properties while enhancing their understanding of their historical value.
Enthusiasts of Victorian and Edwardian design can engage with the Society’s vibrant program of events and activities. These include guided tours, lectures by leading historians, and exclusive access to buildings of interest. The Society’s advocacy campaigns also provide opportunities for individuals to actively contribute to the preservation of endangered sites. Membership offers enthusiasts a deeper connection to the rich history of this period, fostering a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for architectural heritage.
The Victorian Society is more than just a conservation body; it is a movement that celebrates the beauty and significance of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. By combining advocacy, education, and expert advice, it provides a comprehensive platform for conservation professionals, homeowners, and enthusiasts alike. Through its tireless efforts, the Society ensures that the architectural treasures of the 19th and early 20th centuries remain a source of inspiration and pride for all.
In recent years Philip Surey Ltd has gained a growing reputation for architectural gilding projects
BACKGROUND - Graduating in 1996 from the City & Guilds of London Art School, Surey spent short spells assisting Richard Kindersley and Ralph Beyer before establishing a busy workshop in London.
In 2010 & 2011, he was represented by art dealers William Agnew & Co at Art Antiques London held in Kensington Gardens, and has had work shown and sold at the RA Summer Show.
Commercial clients include The National Trust, Tate Britain, Southwark Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Winchester Cathedral, Luke Hughes & Co, John Morgan Studio
In 1986 the company was taken over by Partridge Fine Arts, who were at the time the world’s foremost antique dealers. William (Bill) Thomas remained with the business as a consultant until his death in 1992.
This new period led to the company taking on a more varied client list and some large projects. Restoration and re-gilding at Althorp was followed by contracts to restore suites of giltwood furniture from the Mansion House, Alnwick Castle and Downing Street. The catastrophic fires at both Uppark House and Windsor Castle saw us restore and meticulously replace many lost decorations.
The work at Windsor was so successful that the Queen and the Queen Mother both made private visits to our workshops to see the restoration in progress. We continued to restore further rooms at Windsor undamaged by the fire and in 2003 were awarded the Royal Warrant from Her Majesty the Queen. We continue to carry out work for the Royal Collection.
Ray Dudman joined W. Thomas Restorations as an apprentice woodcarver in 1974. Ten years later he was appointed a director and after thirty six years with the company he became the new owner in 2010. Three of our team of craftsmen and women joined as apprentices at sixteen years of age and have served more than 30 years each with the company. In April 2016 with the help of funding from the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST), we have been able to take on our first apprentice woodcarver this century.
Although specialising in woodcarving and gilding the company has expanded its repertoire with the addition of a cabinet maker, polisher and paint specialist all working in-house and upholsterers and metal workers as sub-contractors. We are now able to take on almost every kind of restoration work and have the ability to assemble a highly skilled team to tackle most contracts.
Gilding and Woodcarving Restoration & Conservation Specialists:
- The company has been involved in many important restoration projects, including work at Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, Uppark, Mansion House, The Wallace Collection and with leading antique dealers in England and America.
- W Thomas Restorations Ltd also make reproductions to the same exacting standards as their 18th century counterparts and carry out commissions to copy or design giltwood mirrors and ornaments.
“I aim for my work to appear free and effortless, within a framework of craftsmanship and integrity.”
“I like to work with my clients, whether they be a committee on a large project or an individual with a deeply personal headstone, trying to understand what they hope for, and then try to express it in a sculptural form. If it’s a statue, I try to capture the humanity of the subject, giving the piece an expression and spirit. If the work is restoration carving, I conduct extensive research before trying to carve with the style and rhythms of the original.”
Simon Smith has worked with stone for more than thirty years. He served his apprenticeship as a stonemason at Woburn Abbey. Simon then went on to study Stone Carving and Sculpture at the City and Guilds of London Art School.
Please contact Simon to discuss any stone carving, sculpture, memorial, headstone, restoration project or anything other project you may be considering.
Other career options were open to me, but this was something I had to follow, in my blood if you like.
From my Father, Neil, now retired, I learned to be a very versatile carver, able to tackle any project. I was also given the opportunity to learn gilding from another master craftsman, Mike Vigor, now sadly no longer with us.
Over the last 20 years I have been working predominantly in the restoration of fine period giltwood furniture for the antique trade, mixed with often interesting ad-hoc projects from other sources.
I tackle all aspects of woodcarving, besides my particular specialism in top quality giltwood furniture restoration.
Francois specializes in fine art framing and has framed some of the worlds most famous painters. Among then Titian, Cannaletto, Botticelli, Raphael, Turner, Monet, Degas and Picasso.
His frames can be seen in galleries and museums throughout the world. Including the National Galleries of London, Washington USA and Melbourn Australia. The Getty Museum, Los Angeles, the Bridgestone museum, Tokyo, and the Liechtenstein museum, Vienna.
He also undertakes a wide variety of reproduction and restoration projects for the national Trust, antique dealers, interior designers, joiners and also creates period props for the film industry.
When you work with us, there are no limitations to what we can create. We employ the same methods and tools used by the generations of wood carvers before us. Look closely and you’ll discover there is a delicacy and beauty that only carving by hand can reveal.
BEAUTY WITHIN BUDGET. DELIVERY WITHOUT DELAY.
At Agrell Architectural Carving, design is everything. Whether it’s a simple yet elegant hand-carved wood fireplace mantel or a series of complex renaissance panels, we proudly stand by our commitment to provide you with workmanship of outstanding quality. You can also be confident your project will be delivered on time and within your budget, regardless of volume, project size or location. The key is collaboration.
To ensure an open and continuous dialogue and complete confidentiality, Ian Agrell personally directs all projects from start to finish. The Agrell Architectural Carving team includes over 15 highly skilled wood carvers and three project managers. Which means, in addition to our large wood carving capacity, we also provide you with your own project manager who, alongside Ian, ensures that all details are managed to your complete satisfaction and that your project moves forward in a timely man
Laurence Beckford's professional career in wood and stone carving began in 1978 as an apprentice for the well known company of Ecclesiastical woodworkers Herbert Read Ltd. Primarily as an Ecclesiastical carver Laurence has perfected techniques that enable him to incorporate supportive skills allowing for a greater skill base from which he can carry out his profession. Laurence is privileged to have been involved with many prestigious projects, examples are: The ’signature’ carver for the renewal of the State Dining Room and Octagon Dining Room ceiling bosses at Windsor Castle, the restoration of the Grinling Gibbons carvings at Hampton Court Palace and the conservation of two exterior Grinling Gibbons carvings at Holme Lacy, Herefordshire.
Martyn Bednarczuk is recognised for his artistic talent and for being able to carve many different disciplines. He is able to sculpt portraits in bronze or wood to the finest detail. He works closely with designers and architects creating period interiors, private, public and corporate art to match clients’ artistic preferences. His diversity is expressed through a wide range of contemporary and period designs.
He specialises in Architectural carving, Ornamental carving, Gilding, 16th & 17th century English oak furniture and Sculptural and Figure work.
In 1988 he became a fellow of the William Morris Fellowship which is organised by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (S.P.A.B.). He studied at the European School for craftsmen at San Servolo, Venice in 1992.
In 1994 he was elected as a member into the Royal Society of British Sculptors. February 2001 Mike was elected into the Worshipful Guild of Smiths who have been in existence since 1601. He has worked on Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Palace of Westminster and many National Trust buildings and churches. He supervised a team of carvers to work on the fire damage at Windsor Castle.
Nature of work - Commissions for restoration and reconstruction of carvings for both interior and exterior. Commissions for design and implementation of sculpture in wood for individuals and public institutions.
In addition, he has developed his free work, distinctly inspired by the classical examples of his illustrious predecessors. Portraits are his great love. And picture frames.
Ornamental and Architectural sculpture
Stone carving
Plasterwork
Ornamental Ceilings
Interior design
Film sculpture/set sculpture
Classical figurative sculptures
Miniature figurines
Tom’s career began in the time-honoured tradition of European stonemasons from the Renaissance onward, travelling Britain & Europe to gain experience on various high-profile stone commissions. This journey broadened his historical grasp of the tradition he had entered & taught him the practical skills needed to bend an intransigent medium to his will.
Tom keeps the ancient craft of working stone alive, perpetuating our great European tradition of stone craft & built heritage, through his own original sculptural work & historic restoration carving. He has worked on many varied & exciting private/public sculptural commissions & prestigious carving restoration projects, from the V&A’s Renaissance galleries & London’s Royal Albert Memorial to St George’s Chapel Windsor, Horace Walpole’s Strawberry Hill Mansions & sir John Soane’s Pitzhanger Manor.
Much of Julian’s work is commissioned by private clients all over the world and entails working with top interior designers, furniture companies and architects, ranging from classical to contemporary designs. He produces highly original pieces, often inspired by the Art Nouveau period, Islamic culture and great names such as Chippendale and William Kent, among others. Another influence is one of Julian’s favourite periods, the 18th Century, with its lavishly carved Venetian furniture, French chairs and English chinoiserie, of which he also makes meticulous copies that can be ultimately enhanced by the use of the finest gilding, painting and marbling, polishing and upholstery.
Julian’s work encompasses tables, consoles, chairs, settees, mirrors, chandeliers, stools, lamps, lighting, sculptures
Julian is a Member of the Master Carvers’ Association. Please click on the membership logo (below) to see Julian’s page at the MCA.
Painting - Having drawn and painted all his life and coming from a farming background, Julian had readily available models of cows, calves and horses on his doorstep. Having studied agriculture after school, Julian’s artistic leanings eventually took him to art college and then on to two and a half years with a master carver in High Wycombe. This ultimately led him to setting up his carving, furniture and sculpture business.
For a long time, Julian has had a desire to develop his equestrian art, which has sprung from a love of horses, especially racing. Julian has ridden most of his life and spent probably the best part of twenty five years in his spare time riding out for numerous racing yards, mainly National Hunt and friends’ point-to-pointers, and for one season he raced his own pointer.
Julian finds the scope with these animals complements his interest in painting landscapes and he now include horses in them, and enjoys depicting the hugely colourful racing scene.
Julian is a Friend of the Society of Equestrian Artists (SEA). Please click on the membership logo (below) to see Julian’s page at the SEA.
As well as completing many prestigious commissions, Gerald teaches regular weekly classes and beginners courses at the workshop.
He carves mainly in wood, though also enjoys stone and marble, working in period styles and designs of his own contrivance.
He restores, reproduces ordesigns and makes pastiche pieces for curators, collectors decorators or dealers but his greatest pieces are in collaboration with the commissioning client ; over a number of years a drawing emerges that can be agreed on, realised and enjoyed.
The real joy is that clients commission again and relationships develop over decades.
Don’t forget letter cutting, in itself or as part of an elaborate design.
Paul has considerable experience in all aspects of 18th century carved and gilt furniture, he has extensively restored Grenlin Gibbons carvings at Hampton Court and St Pauls. In addition he has been involved in many projects at prestigious buildings including Chatsworth, Sandringham, Balmoral, Windsor Castle, 10 Downing Street, Uppark and the Fitzwilliam Museum in addition to designed commissions for private clients including The Sultan of Brunei and various celebrities.
Based on her background in visual recognition, art and design, Lisi has developed a workshop creating original and beautiful individually crafted art pieces based on these timeless principals, often with a whimsical or humorous twist.
Working with traditional or classic forms, or specially commissioned lettering, her architectural works are true expressions of individuality and personal value.
Inspired by themes as diverse as poetry, history, philosophy, science and the landscape, her work makes a dramatic focal point, or a deeply intimate tribute or message.
Quality craftsmanship and a highly sensitive creative resource combine to provide you with a unique and enduring commission.
Carvers & Gilders holds a Royal Warrant, are members of the Master Carvers Association and have accredited ICON staff.
With our knowledge and experience of carving techniques, periods, styles and surface decoration, we are able to provide clients with ideas and designs for bespoke pieces.
We welcome client involvement to ensure that design intentions, aesthetics and context are all part of decision making.
Our clients include museums, national collections, public organisations, private collectors, antique dealers, interior designers, architects and individuals. We have undertaken long-term projects for Woburn Abbey, Windsor Castle, Osborne House, Harewood House, Spencer House, Houghton Hall, Hampton Court, Kew Palace, Uppark House and Royal Collection Trust.
The firm has a wealth of experience and our staff are all qualified and fully trained in every aspect of our work. We keep abreast of new developments in our field.