Business Details
Expert Historic Masonry Conservation Services in York
Established by master stonemason Matthias Garn, our business combines over three decades of expertise in historic conservation with a deep commitment to traditional craftsmanship. With a foundation built on European masonry training and specialist work at iconic sites like Wells Cathedral, we deliver precision-led conservation for historic stone structures nationwide. Our team holds prestigious accreditations including SPAB fellowship and Worshipful Company of Masons certification, reflecting our adherence to rigorous conservation standards.We actively perpetuate heritage skills through apprenticeships supported by the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust and Historic England partnerships. Our collaborative approach integrates archaeologists, joiners, and metalworkers to ensure sensitive, reversible interventions aligned with SPAB principles. As industry leaders, we balance technical mastery with community engagement through workshops and public outreach initiatives.
Services
Masonry
Carving
Monument Conservation
Lime Repairs
Clay Modelling
Letter Cutting
Heritage Consulting
Outreach Training
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in historic masonry conservation
- Our team holds SPAB fellowship accreditation for conservation excellence
- We maintain a Master Craftsman Certificate from the Worshipful Company of Masons
- Our apprenticeship programme is supported by leading heritage organisations
- We employ collaborative conservation approaches with specialist professionals
Associations and certifications
- Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings
- Worshipful Company of Masons
- Historic England
- Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust
- York Consortium for Conservation and Craftsmanship
Services
Masonry
Our core stonemasonry practice preserves historic structures using traditional techniques. We specialise in precision repair of complex masonry elements while maintaining structural integrity. Our team applies centuries-old methods to modern conservation challenges, ensuring continuity of craftsmanship for future generations.
Carving
We create bespoke stone and woodcarving commissions for ecclesiastical and secular settings. Our artisans employ traditional tools and techniques to produce intricate decorative elements and replacement architectural features while maintaining historical accuracy.
Lime Repairs
Specialising in lime-based conservation, we apply traditional lime mortars, shelter coats, and nano-lime treatments. Our expertise ensures compatible repairs that maintain breathability and flexibility in historic masonry structures, preventing long-term damage.
Monument Conservation
We undertake sensitive conservation of ecclesiastical and secular monuments. Our approach combines technical expertise with historical understanding to preserve commemorative structures while maintaining their cultural significance and physical integrity.
Heritage Consulting
We provide expert guidance to architects and conservation organisations on stone structure preservation. Our consultancy covers project planning, material selection, and traditional technique application for heritage building repairs.
People
Matthias Garn
Master Stonemason
German-born master stonemason with 30+ years' experience in historic conservation. Holds MA in Historic Conservation from University of York and Master Craftsman certification from the Worshipful Company of Masons.
Kibby Schaefer
Senior Carver
Qualified architectural woodcarver with specialist expertise in high-relief limewood carving. Holds MSc from University of Edinburgh and City & Guilds diploma in decorative carving techniques.
David Switalla
Master Stonemason
NVQ Level 6 qualified master stonemason with expertise in traditional German stone carving techniques. Proficient in CAD applications for heritage conservation projects.
Matt Hodgkinson
Stone Carver
Skilled stone carver and letter cutter with NVQ Level 3 qualifications in stonemasonry and woodcarving. Heritage Lottery Fund bursary recipient with specialist training in traditional lime mortar techniques.
Marlene Lagnado
Apprentice Mason
Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust apprentice awarded most determined trainee at York College. Bronze medal winner at Skillbuild national competition with expertise in banker masonry and letter carving.
Questions
What specialisms do you offer in historic conservation?
We specialise in stone masonry, carving, lime repairs, and monument conservation for historic buildings nationwide.
How do you approach conservation projects?
We follow SPAB principles using traditional, reversible materials and techniques tailored to each building's unique history.
Do you provide training in heritage skills?
Yes, we offer apprenticeships supported by QEST and Historic England's Hamish Ogston Programme.
What geographic areas do you cover?
We work locally in York and undertake conservation projects nationwide across the UK.
Can you consult on conservation projects?
Yes, we provide expert consultancy to architects and conservation organisations on stone structure preservation.
How do you engage with communities?
Through our Wolds Workshop outreach programme offering heritage skills workshops and public demonstrations.
