Securing a nationally important Tudor manor

Bramall Hall dates back to the Middle Ages – originally two separate manors, they were combined in 1070 by William the Conqueror for Hamon de Masci, the first Baron of Dunham Massey. Housed within are some of the most significant 16th-century wall paintings in the UK, if not Europe, alongside a spectacular example of Elizabethan plaster ceiling. The hall stands today as one of North West’s most iconic black and white timber-framed buildings, surrounded by almost 70 acres of parkland designed in the Victorian Romantic style.

With water ingress threatening the celebrated interiors, Stockport Council appointed us to lead the ‘Under Our Roof’ project, focusing on securing the failing roof.

Roof repairs to protect an architectural masterpiece

Supported by £1.6m of funding granted by the Art Council of England’s Museums Estates Development Fund (MEND), the project aims to restore the roof and its significant features, while making it more resilient to the impact of climate change.

Now on site, scaffolding has been erected and work to the roof’s distinct chimneys has begun, focusing on securing their aesthetic and structural integrity. Alongside this, the rainwater management system is being upgraded with increased gutter capacity and new rainwater pipes. Insulation is being added throughout to enhance the building’s performance and reduce its running costs.

Bramall Hall is remaining open to visitors throughout the restoration, giving guests the unique opportunity to watch skilled craftspeople in action while exploring the vast history of the site.