~ Laghy, County Donegal (1848); courtesy of Ordinance Survey Ireland

HISTORICAL RESEARCH

HISTORICAL RESEARCH can be essential in understanding the building
in order to enable devising a strategy for its proper conservation.

The historical development of a building or structure is an important requirement of the planning process for protected structures. Historical research provides an understanding of the building in its original setting. Additionally, it looks for evidence of interventions which may have been carried out to explain its development, which may not be evident from the structural survey alone. 

HOW HISTORICAL RESEARCH IS CARRIED OUT

The historical synopsis produced will include a site chronology, background information and historical assessment of the architecture. It will also include any reference to the owners, architects, builder, craftsmen which enriches the cultural reading of the structure. A thorough examination of archival, documentary sources and ordnance survey sources is carried out including exploiting the following:

• National, Local, University, Ecclesiastical and Military Libraries
• The Irish Architectural and National Archives
• Registry of Deeds
• Valuations Office
• Private Collections
• Map Libraries

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

As part of the Planning Act 2000, an assessment of the significance of structure is generally a mandatory requirement for applications which include protected structures.

Following the completion of the desktop study and compilation of the architectural record a statement of the significance of the structure can be defined. The preparation of a statement of significance is one of the most important elements in the process of protecting our built heritage. The statement is typically broken down into the following main heading; Historical, Architectural, Social and Cultural. Depending on the structure, other sub-headings may be addressed such as Industrial Heritage, Landscape and Wildlife and so on.

If you would like more information, or would like to discuss a project, please contact the office to speak to one of our conservation consultants.

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