This talk will give an overview of the unique philosophy of repair that has been developed for Woodchester Mansion, the repairs done so far, and the major work still required to give an isolated, unfinished building a sustainable future.
Woodchester Mansion
Nestled in a wooded Cotswold valley is a Victorian mansion that was never finished. Woodchester Mansion is a rare gem of many facets. Its Grade I listing acknowledges its architectural and historical significance and SSSI status. It has significant ecological importance but is also a rare survival of a 19th century building site, and paradigm of gothic structure, an archive of architectural draughtsmanship not to mention its social history and religious symbolism.
Since the original builders left the site in the 1870s, large parts of the building are unchanged; some of the stone carvings look as though they have just been completed. In contrast, when the Woodchester Mansion Trust took over responsibility in 1989, the magnificent tierceron vaulted chapel ceiling was on the verge of collapse.
About the speaker
The presentation will be given by John Goom BA, Dip Arch RIBA. John is an architect and has been a Lethaby Scholar for 30 years. He has worked with the Woodchester Mansion Trust and is now, in retirement, a trustee.
