Architectural Historians

When architectural history is worth commissioning

Commission it before the design, not after the refusal. Understanding what is significant, and which parts of the building are later or of little interest, usually widens what can be proposed rather than narrowing it. Schemes fail at committee far more often for lack of understanding than for ambition.

Be clear about the level of record required. Historic building recording is usually specified by level, from a basic photographic and descriptive record to full analytical survey with measured drawings. Agree the level with the conservation officer or archaeologist before commissioning, so the report meets the condition first time.

Expect fabric and documents together. Deeds, tithe and estate maps, census returns and sale particulars give dates and ownership; the fabric gives the sequence. Neither alone dates a building reliably, and a good report says clearly where the evidence stops and inference begins.

Keep the record with the building. Reports, drawings and photographs are as much part of an old building's history as the fabric, and the local historic environment record will usually accept a copy. It saves the next owner from repeating the work.