Aidan Ridyard has given the 35th Bromsgrove Lecture, hosted by the Bromsgrove Society, where he discussed the topic of creative conservation, where heritage buildings are brought back to life for our modern society. The presentation took place at Routh Hall, Bromsgrove School on Tuesday April 12th.
Using examples of recent and current projects, Aidan, described how BFF develop a series of uniquely crafted design solutions to unlock the potential of some remarkable listed buildings around the country. These are characterised by a fresh approach to the perennial problems of helping historic structures find contemporary relevance and a meaningful long-term future in an ever-changing world.
photo courtesy of Troy Kidsley
Projects featured included the refurbishment and remodelling of the Listed Grade I, II* and II York Guildhall complex, into a city centre hub for business, enterprise and events run by the University of York, a new 1350 seat theatre incorporating two listed buildings in Truro, and the redevelopment of the Grade I Listed headquarters of the Royal Society of Arts in London.
Also discussed were projects in the Midlands, including the redevelopment of the Roundhouse as a canal side visitor centre in central Birmingham for the National Trust and the Canal and River Trust, and the remodelling of Listed Grade II carpet weaving sheds and the former magistrates court in Kidderminster to form a new cultural and creative hub.
Joanne Slade, Aidan Ridyard and Pat Tansell
Following the lecture Joanne Slade, Vice Chairman, of the Bromsgrove Society said:
“Thank you so much for an excellent lecture last night - I thoroughly enjoyed it and have received some wonderful feedback this morning. I found your care for the projects, the buildings, the places and the people really inspiring, and I loved that the starting place for your designs is the medieval maps, bringing the best of the past to be the best of the future. I agree that our historic buildings should remain as the foundation of our futures, and that making them live and breathe again will ensure their survival. Of course all this depends on the clients being open to change, and I am sure that your approach, confidence and care guarantees that the door to change is opened and walked through.”
Aidan is currently working with Bromsgrove District Council to develop their Bromsgrove 2040 vision for the town centre and is writing his first book, on the Church architecture of Wolverhampton architect Richard Twentyman, which will be published later this year.
The Bromsgrove Society exists to preserve the history and promote the sustainable development of the town of Bromsgrove in north Worcestershire. They organise the annual Bromsgrove Lecture which has attracted a large audience over the thirty years of its existence and is given by an expert in the field.