Episodes

  • [HBP#13] - Ashley Waters - Our Chateau Restoration
    May 12 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 another episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast!


    Join Vincent as he interviews Ashley Waters, who, along with his partner Terry and their extended family, has embarked on an extraordinary journey of transforming an abandoned 18th-century chateau in rural France.


    Throughout this gripping episode, Ashley shares the challenges and rewards of their restoration project, detailing their transition from life in the UK to the serene French countryside.


    Discover their heartwarming story of perseverance, creative ingenuity, and the rare opportunity to revive a historical gem. Find out how their story has captivated many on their YouTube Channel, 'Escape To The Dream, Restoring The Château.,' and on Channel Four's 'Château DIY.'


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


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    00:00 Introduction and Sunny Day Musings

    00:30 Introducing Ashley Waters and the Chateau Restoration

    01:17 Ashley's Journey to France

    02:56 Falling in Love with France

    04:28 Finding the Perfect Property

    06:38 The Purchase Process and Challenges

    10:21 Adjusting to Life in France

    22:27 Restoration Challenges and Community Support

    28:26 Budgeting and Planning the Restoration

    39:46 Learning and Doing the Work Themselves

    42:07 Navigating Relationship Challenges

    42:43 Balancing Work and Family Time

    43:43 Financial Strategies and Roles

    45:11 Living a Simpler Life in France

    46:58 Renovation Insights and Challenges

    49:13 Historic Preservation and Discoveries

    01:01:38 Climate and Lifestyle in Rural France

    01:07:02 The Journey of Restoring a Chateau

    01:12:23 The Success of Our YouTube Channel

    01:15:25 Advice for Aspiring Chateau Owners

    01:18:26 Future Plans and Reflections

    01:21:59 Where to Follow Our Journey


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    Connect with Tobit Curteis using the links below:


    Website: linktr.ee/Chateaudelalacelle

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chateaudelalacelle/?_rdr


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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • [HBP#12] - Tobit Curteis - The Art and Science of Conservation
    Apr 28 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 another episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast!


    Today, Vincent Reed sits down with Tobit Curteis, founder of Tobit Curteis Associates, to delve into the intricacies of environmental conservation in historic buildings. With a career spanning over three decades, Tobit has specialised in protecting landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey through innovative environmental monitoring and conservation techniques.


    Tune in as Tobit discusses his journey, highlights challenges in the field, and emphasises the importance of understanding a building’s historical and current environments.


    Discover how diagnosing problems accurately can transform conservation efforts and what the future holds for this niche yet vital field.


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


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    00:00 Introduction to the Heritage Buildings Podcast

    00:10 Meet Tobit Curteis: Expert in Environmental Deterioration

    01:05 Curteis Tobit's Journey into Conservation

    02:08 Early Career and Training

    07:29 Starting a Conservation Business

    12:28 Challenges and Learning in Conservation

    23:09 Balancing Art and Science in Conservation

    38:32 Technological Innovations in Conservation

    54:11 Understanding Building Efficiency

    54:48 Environmental Risks and Material Stability

    55:58 Heating Systems and Building Stability

    57:04 Challenges in Conservation Decisions

    01:01:10 Impact of Climate Change on Buildings

    01:03:42 Monitoring Building Environments

    01:13:46 Structural Monitoring and Diagnostics

    01:21:55 Stained Glass Conservation Techniques

    01:35:06 Future of Conservation and Skills Development

    01:44:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


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    Connect with Tobit Curteis using the links below:


    Website: www.tcassociates.co.uk

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

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobit-curteis-05794b19/


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    1 hr and 46 mins
  • [HBP#11] - Chris Gladwell - Tradition Meets The Future
    Apr 14 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 of the Heritage Buildings podcast, host Vincent Reed sits down with Chris Gladwell, Director of Rockman Restoration and Vitrolithic.


    Chris shares his journey from a fresh-faced graduate in general construction to a recognised expert in heritage restoration projects including the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and Buckingham Palace.


    Learn about his innovative approaches in sustainable precast solutions, the intricacies of working with historic buildings, and the founding of Vitrolithic, a company specialising in low-carbon alternatives for terracotta structures.


    Delve into his experiences managing iconic restorations, the challenges in the industry, and his vision for future conservation efforts. Available now on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and more!


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


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    00:00 Introduction to Chris Gladwell

    00:50 Chris's Early Career in Construction

    01:40 Transition to Heritage Building Restoration

    02:53 Managing Heritage Projects

    04:38 Learning and Collaborating with Conservation Architects

    13:39 Starting a Business in Heritage Restoration

    24:30 Founding Rockman Restoration

    41:08 Innovating with Vitralithic

    49:39 Exploring Terra Notte and Sustainable Materials

    51:01 Innovations in Low Carbon Casting

    54:48 3D Printing and Digital Modeling in Construction

    01:04:46 Challenges and Techniques in Stone Cleaning

    01:13:42 Restoration and Conservation of Stone Structures

    01:20:02 Future of the Stone Masonry Industry

    01:29:27 Notable Projects and Personal Reflections

    01:34:50 Understanding Stucco and Its Applications

    01:39:30 Conclusion and Contact Information



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    Connect with Chris Gladwell using the links below:


    Website: www.rockmanltd.co.uk www.vitrolithic.com


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

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockman/


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    1 hr and 41 mins
  • [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 Wealden Downland Museum Grid Shell and the Savill 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

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    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


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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