CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT PLAN, MASTERPLANNING, AND CONSERVATION WITH NEW WORKS

Completed

The Wivenhoe Estate (villa, garden and stables), built c.1834-37, is an excellent example of the work of prominent colonial architect, John Verge. The estate has a distinctive rural character that has endured a variety of uses, including an orphanage and more recently a special school for intellectually disabled children.

Design 5 has given ongoing conservation and maintenance advice at Wivenhoe since 1993. In 1997, Design 5 completed a CMP for the entire estate to identify and assess significant values, and provide appropriate guidelines for future development. In 2000, Design 5 prepared a conservation plan for the villa garden with Michael Lehany (heritage landscape specialist), stating its national significance as a rare and substantially intact 1830s garden.

Design 5 has guided conservation works to the stables and carried out extensive conservation works to the villa itself. To suit the new use of the villa as a function centre and guest house, numerous works were carried out including: careful repairs to joinery, roofing, drainage systems and stone flagging, the sensitive installation of new bathroom and kitchen facilities, electrical wiring, lighting and fire services and provision for disabled access. Substantial conservation works to the 1830s garden assisted in strengthening the setting to this very significant villa.