The Library brings together research articles, technical notes, and reference material relating to historic buildings, traditional materials, and conservation practice. Content published here is intended to support informed understanding and professional engagement, and may include original writing, commissioned work, and selected material from other relevant sources.
Plans to Restore Historic Bishopscourt Dairy
Plans have been submitted to restore the historic Dairy at Bishopscourt, Kirk Michael. Discover the building’s unusual history, the proposed conservation works and how archaeological research has helped inform the project.
Peel Castle: What Archaeology Has Revealed
An introduction to the archaeological investigations at Peel Castle, exploring how excavation and research have transformed our understanding of one of the Isle of Man’s most significant historic monuments.
Adapting Traditional Farm Buildings
An overview of best practice guidance for adapting traditional farm buildings, balancing modern requirements with the conservation of historic character and significance.
Repair, Don’t Replace: The SPAB Approach to Historic Building
An introduction to SPAB’s conservation philosophy, exploring how the principles of repairing rather than replacing historic building fabric can help guide the care of traditional and registered buildings on the Isle of Man.
What is dendrochronological sampling?
A specialist method used to date historic timber by analysing tree-ring patterns, beginning with careful identification and assessment of suitable timbers.
An overview of hot lime mortar, considering its properties, traditional uses, and relevance within the conservation of historic buildings.
Common Misconceptions About Historic Building Repair
A brief discussion of some common assumptions surrounding the repair of historic buildings, and why conservation practice often requires a different approach from modern construction.
Conservation in Practice: Students Repair Historic Church Roof
A short reflection on a BBC News report examining how conservation training and traditional skills are applied in the repair of a historic church roof.
Understanding Traditional Brick and Mortar in Historic Buildings
An overview of traditional brick and mortar construction in historic buildings, considering materials, performance, and conservation context.
A Guide for Owners of Registered Buildings
An overview of considerations for owners of registered buildings on the Isle of Man, drawing on Historic England’s best practice guidance for listed buildings while highlighting the importance of seeking local advice and following Isle of Man legislation.
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