Protected Structure Archives - Isabel Barros Architects

We are delighted to see the completion of Phase 2 of the Conservation and Repair Works at the Brandon House Hotel.

The project involved the preparation of condition and recommendations reports, followed by specifications and contract administration. The works were carried out in 2 Phases. Phase 1 involved work to two chimneys and it was carried out by Protum. Phase 2 included all the other chimneys, external walls, roofs, rainwater goods, etc. Robert Quinn Ltd. was commissioned to carry out the works in Phase 2.

Works included repair and repointing of brickwork and stonework, replacement of roof coverings and flashings, capping and ventilating redundant chimney flues, cleaning and restoration of cast iron rainwater goods, etc.

The philosophy for the intervention to this Protected Structure was guided by international charters and principles, the aim was to prolong the life of the building for its utilization now and in the future.

Most conservation challenges are complex and many difficult challenges have arisen during the Works. Isabel Barros Architects are proud to have achieved a fantastic result through good collective teamwork and strict budget control.

Isabel Barros with Site Manager Dan Fitzpatrick and RQL Director Michael Quinn

The original building of the Brandon House Hotel is a Protected Structure built between 1841-1874 and located in New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland. The property has been maintained reasonably well but many inadequate repairs have failed to resolve the problems. Isabel Barros Architects was appointed to assess the condition of the building envelope and provide recommendations and alternative solutions to repair and conserve the building.

The recommendations were consistent with the Burra Charter guidance. The Burra Charter is widely accepted as the standard for heritage conservation practice. Good conservation practices aim to promote minimum intervention into the historic fabric of a structure. Conservation works should do as much as necessary, yet as little as possible to the structure to ensure its future.

Isabel Barros Architects has also prepared Specifications for the emergency Works and administered the contract for Phase 1 of the Works.

The works involve replacing extensively eroded bricks with matching bricks, repairing minor erosion to bricks with colour matched lime mortar, removing cement mortar joints and cement renders, repointing joints with lime mortar, replacing chimney flashings and treating timber elements. Protum was commissioned to carry out the works.