Leading architect and historic building consultant Purcell Miller Tritton has been recognised by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors for their work in the restoration of Darnley Mausoleum, with the project recently being awarded South East Project of the Year. The Grade I listed building, which sits in the grounds of Cobham Woods in Kent, also won the Green Apple Conservation Award. Darnley Mausoleum is the third regional RICS award won by Purcell Miller Tritton for projects all over the UK in the past month and joins the others in going forward into the prestigious National RICS Awards in October.
The Mausoleum has been derelict since the 1950’s and has suffered from extensive vandalism and fire. It was restored by Purcell Miller Tritton using traditional techniques and originally sourced materials. The building was originally designed by James Wyatt and was completed in 1786 for the Darnley Family of Cobham Hall. It is regarded as important because of the architect’s reputation in the neoclassical school and its situation in parkland in a prominent position on the North Downs.
The Mausoleum is constructed from Portland stone and features a unique pyramid structure, the first of its type to be seen in Britain. Richard Putnam, the Principal at Purcell Miller Tritton's Canterbury studio who was responsible for the project said, “We are delighted that our work has been recognised by this award. Darnley was a challenging project, not least because of the amount of stonework that needed replacing due to smoke damage, vandalism and natural weathering.”
He went on to add, “The protracted and successful restoration of Darnley Mausoleum has shown how a large number of organisations can work together to preserve our heritage. These awards are recognition for all those involved that showed such tenacity and enthusiasm.”
John Payle, a judge for the RICS South East Region, also commented on the award, describing the project as “a fine conservation of a Grade I listed building”. He went on to comment on the meticulous restoration and the care that went into the project, saying, “Nine years of research was carried out which led to tracing the original instructions to the architect James Wyatt as well as repairs being carried out using materials from original sources.”
Mark Goldspink, Chief Executive of Purcell Miller Tritton, said, “We are delighted that RICS recognised the commitment and enthusiasm that went into this remarkable restoration at Darnley. This project joins Wollaton Hall and St. Paul’s Cathedral as the third project to be recognised in this manner by RICS. A unique achievement and testimony to the superb work undertaken by the PMT team all over the UK using traditional materials and techniques."