Practice expertise in detail plays part in iconic Buxton Crescent’s renaissance
ctd architects were involved as building conservation consultants working closely with specialist crafts people on the repair and conservation of the Grade 1 Listed Buxton Crescent.
The iconic Buxton landmark, arguably the most striking building in the Derbyshire spa town, opened to the public in October 2020, however Covid restrictions delayed the full opening until May 2021.
Buxton Crescent was built between 1779 and 1789 and was designed for the 5th Duke of Devonshire by the prolific Georgian Architect, John Carr. The three-storey Stanton Moor gritstone building is an impressive 29 bay semi-circle, originally built as series of separate ‘lodging houses’ with a hotel at each ‘bookend’ as part of the Duke’s vision to transform Buxton into an elegant spa resort.
ctd architects director and accredited conservation architect, Chris Hesketh said: “Our involvement in the extensive conservation, refurbishment and conversion work necessary to create a unique luxury 5-star hotel of world class standard within the historic fabric of the Crescent stemmed over four years and focussed on the practical building conservation aspects of the project once work on site commenced.
“Working for client The Trevor Osborne Property Group, we advised on the conservation of the slate and lead roofs, the external masonry elevations, internal joinery and elaborate decorative plaster ceilings. We also contributed to decision-making on the decorative colour schemes and the conservation repair works to the original decorative cornices and ceiling roses, and the repair of the original mahogany-veneered doors and ironmongery, and restoration of the unique Assembly Room and Blue Room decorative plaster ceilings.”