Coughton Court “Through the Roof” has received an AABC Conservation Award at the Civic Trust Awards 2026.
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Coughton Court is a nationally significant Grade I listed Tudor house. Between 2023 and 2025, it underwent a major programme of roof repairs in response to the declining condition of its historic fabric.

As architect, we carried out detailed investigations at the very outset, which helped us to shape a clear, significance-led approach so repairs could be carefully targeted. Wherever possible, existing fabric was kept and repaired, with original timbers conserved using traditional techniques and compatible materials. Where elements had to be replaced, new work was introduced in a straightforward way, sitting comfortably within the wider roof without drawing attention to itself.

​The Civic Trust Awards celebrate projects that demonstrate real quality in the built environment and contribute positively to their communities.

The judges commented:
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“An outstanding example of conservation practice at its most disciplined and effective… demonstrating how careful research, skilled craftsmanship and restrained intervention can arrest decline, preserve authenticity and safeguard the future of an irreplaceable historic building.”

If you look very closely, you may have noticed that the Golden Lion’s middle gable contains small, intricate wooden carvings of hearts (or shields). The heart is set within an arched brace designed as a decorative element to enhance the gable. 
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​Details like this are easy to miss because of their size. We don't know why they exist other than being design choices of the time, just like we accessorise our own homes. They may also indicate some form of hidden symbolism or even part of a family Coat of Arms, or maybe the heart signalled that the owner was linked to a specific craft. Deritend after all, was a hive of manufacturing and craftsmanship. We think they were most likely intended to signal wealth, reflecting the owner’s taste, style and status. Details such as these which are visible only upon close inspection, demonstrate that the owner of what eventually became known as the Golden Lion, could afford decorative details that served no practical purpose.  

Over the years, when the hearts were repaired, they were made separately and simply nailed back onto the gable rather than being carved as part of a larger part of timber. We have chosen to recreate the hearts in the way they were originally crafted - carved directly from larger sections of timber as a single, integrated piece, and they will once again adorn the middle gable.
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Details such as these are easy to miss. They further suggest that the original building was certainly high profile and built for a wealthy merchant in the town. This is truly a nod to the building’s history and the craftsmanship associated with it.​

The major conservation project was delivered in close collaboration with the National Trust, and focused on the repair and restoration of the roof and historic fabric of the Grade I-listed building. Critical findings in our 2016 Quinquennial Inspection, which identified extensive deterioration to the South Wing and Tower roofs, including failed leadwork, poor drainage, and moisture retention caused by modern materials highlighted the need for the works. We took a minimal-intervention approach which was rooted in repair rather than replacement.

As Conservation Architect and Lead Consultant, we worked with the National Trust to develop and deliver a significance-led scheme, using traditional craft skills and appropriate materials to ensure durability, honesty, and reversibility. Ecological considerations were also carefully considered with works programmed to protect bat roosts within the roof structure.

​This recognition is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication, expertise, and collaboration of the entire project team. Huge thanks to the National Trust, the project team, funders, and everyone who supported the project. We’re incredibly proud to see this important conservation work recognised at a national level and are very much looking forward to the awards ceremony in March.

We’re back inside The Golden Lion this week for the first time since the debris was cleared, the windows unboarded, and the stud walls removed, and what a moment it is!
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For the first time in many years, the building stands open and full of light once again. It’s a fleeting stage in the project, but one that felt important to document and appreciate before the next chapter begins.

​Inside, the internal ‘birdcage’ scaffold is now in place and will be completed this week. Next up, the external scaffold, which begins shortly and will take shape throughout November.

​This marks the start of an exciting new phase for the Golden Lion, moving from planning to delivery. Following our feasibility study for Birmingham Conservation Trust, funded by Historic England in partnership with Birmingham City Council, essential repairs can now begin. The focus will be on stabilising the structure, repairing historic fabric, and safeguarding the building’s future.
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The Golden Lion’s condition and vulnerable setting bring their challenges, but also huge potential. This is the first step in a long-term effort to bring this remarkable building back into meaningful public use, and what a privilege for us to be part of its transformation.

We love documenting these moments, using photography to tell the story of a building’s renewal. Follow the project’s journey with us as The Golden Lion comes 'roaring' back to life.

Project team

Client: Birmingham Conservation Trust
Architect: Oliver Architecture
Main contractor: Reynolds Conservation 
Structural engineer: Clive Haywood
Quantity Surveyor: PMP Consultants

Planning and faculty have now been granted for the Lottery-funded scheme People | Passion | Priory: Brecon Cathedral, The Heart and Soul of Community.

Stephen Oliver was appointed Cathedral Architect in 2015 and carried out a Quinquennial Inspection of the Cathedral and its buildings that same year. Since then, our involvement has continued, and this latest project marks an exciting new chapter.

Thanks to a Development Grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project will deliver much-needed repairs and improvements. The scheme comprises:

• The creation of a new west door to the Cathedral;
• Reroofing and associated masonry and rainwater goods repairs at the east end;
• Internal reordering, involving the moving and repositioning of canon and choir stalls within the Presbytery, the Tithe Barn, and the Song School.

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​Improving access has been a major concern for many years - the introduction of a new west door will transform this experience, offering a welcoming, accessible, and unified entrance for all.
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This project will not only secure essential repairs but also improve inclusivity and ensure the Cathedral continues to serve as the heart and soul of its community.