Gemma is a highly experienced conservation architect including three significant National Lottery projects and leads within the office on heritage matters. She enjoys the intellectual interest in the different ways old buildings tell stories — being part of preserving them for future generations to enjoy, while contributing to their history by adding something from this generation.
Gemma has recently completed the restoration of a Grade II* listed timber-framed medieval hall house in Hertfordshire, she negotiated with Historic England to allow the house to evolve to meet the client's needs. The work has been characterised by honest repairs with real materials that age, and details that respond to all the human senses.
She has built up a portfolio of large Cotswold farmhouse renovations, explaining and leading clients through the complexities of the planning and construction phases.
Craft is ingrained in her outlook, and in recent years she has tried her hand at silversmithing, blacksmithing, pottery and willow weaving — 'you start to appreciate how these skills can be scaled up to building level.'