dædalus project glynde place wins historic houses association restoration award 2017

Glynde Place in East Sussex has been crowned the winner of the 2017 Historic Houses Association (HHA) Restoration Award, sponsored by Sotheby’s. The site is currently being restored by Dædalus Conservation (part of R W Armstrong).

The Restoration Award recognises and celebrates the work being undertaken by Members of the HHA throughout the United Kingdom. These projects reflect the dedication of owners to the care and sympathetic restoration of the incredible buildings that they own, inhabit and share with the public.

The building has developed with each generation, however upon inheriting the house the family were met with the stark reality of a large house divided into distinct areas, some of which were neglected, damp and unsuitable for use a family home. The Brands set out to restore this beautiful Elizabethan mansion to its former glory as a lived-in home, to conserve the historic fabric, integrate modern services, and create an event and visitor area.

A specialist team at Dædalus Conservation began work on the site creating a new entrance hall, now full of family photos and evidence of everyday life, with a “Great Door” that sits behind the original medieval oak door which was repaired and retained.

Two unstable curved window bays, which on occasion sent glass crashing to the ground, were rebuilt. Structural repairs were undertaken and damaged Elizabethan stained glass was carefully restored. Additionally, the Gallery ceiling was restored to its former glory using original materials and traditional methods.

As well as preventing this house from falling into further disrepair, creating a homely environment for the family, and enabling the general public to experience and use the space, the project has led to numerous opportunities for study by scholars and apprentices.

Photography © SMD Photography