[HBP#14] - Liz Smith - Through the Lens of a Conservation Architect

Heritage Buildings Podcast

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Welcome to another episode of the Heritage Buildings Podcast!

In this episode, Vincent Reed sits down with Liz Smith, a pioneering conservation architect. Liz is the chairperson and regional partner at Purcell and has worked on iconic heritage sites like the National Maritime Museum, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Kensington Palace. She shares her journey from being a passionate young student fascinated by history and art to becoming a leader in architectural conservation.

Liz also discusses her innovative approach to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality and her role in mentoring the next generation of architects through the Purcell Conservation School. We also touch on her unique experiences, such as appearing on Channel Four's 'Phil Spencer's Stately Homes' and working on conservation projects in South Georgia.

Tune in to learn more about the multifaceted role of a conservation architect and the intricate process of preserving our architectural heritage.

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Below is a more detailed breakdown of the video with relevant timestamps

Click the time on the left to jump straight to that section

00:00 Introduction to Liz Smith

01:12 Liz's Day-to-Day Responsibilities

02:32 Liz's Background and Education

06:00 Early Career and Influences

17:37 Joining Purcell and Working on St. Paul's Cathedral

23:52 The Role of Conservation Architects

32:54 Collaborating with Other Professionals

37:19 Craftspeople and Architects: A Collaborative Success

38:10 The Importance of Early Professional Meetings

38:44 Conservation Philosophy and RIBA Stages

39:49 Balancing Leadership and Hands-On Work

40:39 Strategic Direction and Team Mentorship

41:19 Project Involvement and Client Interaction

42:56 The Role of Conservation Architects

43:37 Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Conservation

43:57 Challenges in Conservation Decisions

44:27 The National Portrait Gallery Project

46:10 Engaging with Historic England

49:26 Authenticity and Relocation of Historic Elements

50:10 The Knowledge Required for Conservation Architects

54:26 The Blend of Creativity and Technical Skills

56:05 Christopher Wren and Architectural Balance

57:27 Exploring the RIBA Stages

57:43 Stage Zero: Strategic Definition

01:00:31 Stage One: Preparation and Brief

01:01:11 Stage Two: Concept Design

01:03:20 Stage Three: Spatial Coordination

01:03:26 Stage Four: Technical Design

01:04:27 Stage Five: Construction Phase

01:06:33 Stage Six: Handover and Snagging

01:08:57 Stage Seven: Aftercare and Maintenance

01:11:31 Television Appearance with Phil Spencer

01:12:12 Unexpected Call from a TV Company

01:13:10 First TV Interview Experience

01:13:45 Becoming a TV Show Regular

01:14:34 Challenges of Being on Camera

01:15:20 Research and Script Involvement

01:17:09 Balancing TV and Work

01:18:25 A Funny Story at Kensington Palace

01:19:39 Winning the Kensington Palace Project

01:23:11 Memorable Projects: National Portrait Gallery and South Georgia

01:33:13 The Purcell Conservation School

01:41:18 Resources and Final Thoughts

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Connect with Liz Smith using the links below:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-smith-7b3a8122/

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Click here to find out more about the Heritage Buildings Association - https://heritagebuildingsassociation.com

Click here to join the conversation - https://heritagebuildings.forum

#ConservationArchitect #PreservingHistory #RestorationArchitecture