Ep architects are increasingly involved with regenerating historic buildings, and due to an expanding portfolio of projects involving neglected railway buildings we published a book in 2025 which is free for anyone that would benefit from having a copy. The book is entitled “Regenerating Railway Buildings” and features 7 case studies of current and ongoing projects we are designing in collaboration with Avon Construction (based in Ringwood) and Hampshire Community Rail Partnership.

Bringing redundant, neglected buildings back to life is a real joy and generates huge community and public interest. In the case of Shawford Ticket Office near Winchester, which is now reenvisioned as a café, gelato bar and community kitchen, the scheme was awarded “Contribution to Society” by Network Rail in their annual awards. A great accolade for all involved and something which we are all very proud of.

Researching historic details and collecting reference to what the building would have looked like when first completed is an involved but rewarding process, with many local enthusiasts and historians often holding valuable information which may not be in any of the accessible archives. The process must be thorough, the contractor well versed and skilled in traditional techniques and the client able to coordinate fundraising to enable the restorative work.

We are heartened by the number of skilled and experienced trades that still exist in most communities and areas (once you look hard!), who can repair and religiously restore the most complex of timber, plaster, or brickwork detailing. Nothing is available in a catalogue, and we have to draw together information and skills from less obvious sources, and most contractors are no longer versed in the methods we seek to use, so please be ready for turning over plenty of stones.

A recent example on a regenerative domestic project was tracking down a timber sash and casement window repair specialist. Once we had found our expert we were astonished at the quality of workmanship and ability to repair things that most would have simply thrown in a skip! No matter how much experience and knowledge we think we have gathered there is always more to learn and people are out there to help, you simply have to work hard to find them.

Research and information gathering is an essential part of regenerative work and there are simply no mainstream answers and methods, as we need to retread our historic steps in craftmanship, skilled expertise, and material sourcing gathered over a lifetime. The results can be hugely rewarding, and you can be assured that the discerning public will love the results. You simply will have to commit to covering many extra miles on the journey.

So, if you are considering starting a regenerative project make sure your research is thorough, you gather together as many hands-on experts as you can and do your best to engage with the local community as someone out there will be able to unearth valuable information.

If we can help you with your project please make contact with ep architects. Please do not be afraid to ask questions and discuss, whether you agree or disagree!

If you would like a copy of our publication please contact us via info@eparchitects.design along with a postal address where we can mail it to you.

ep architects  

info@eparchitects.design