COVENTRY architectural firm IDP has been recognised for its conservation work on the city’s historic 700-year-old St Mary’s Guildhall.
The firm was awarded ‘highly commended’ for the civic trust AABC conservation award which recognises projects that demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation.
The prize also rewards projects which make a significant contribution to the quality and appearance of the building’s environment.
Judges praised the work that led to the reopening of the guildhall for increasing accessibility in the building.
The IDP director James Hinde said he was pleased the firm was highly-commended for a local project close to his heart.
He also said the knock-on effects on the city from the guildhall project included an increase in overnight stays and a boost to the local economy.
The guildhall, which was in a state of disrepair, has been restored and preserved using historic and sustainable materials such as oak and lime that are less energy intensive than cement.
It reopened to the public last year following more than £6million of funding for the project.
