Minsden Chapel

The chapel dates from the 14th century. It was last used for regular services in the late 17th century. Thereafter the building was abandoned and the structure rapidly deteriorated, plundered for materials resulting in rapid ruination. Initial surveys found that the greatest structural concern was the condition of its south wall where the last remaining arches had been significantly weakened by collapses to the springing points of the openings. The aim of the sensitive repair project was to ensure the longevity of the scheduled ruin through a range of conservation repairs to stabilise the flint walls, lime hardcapping and sensitive repairs to arches and other architectural features. The works were funded through a DEFRA Countryside Stewardship grant. A collaborative approach between contractor and architect was crucial to delivering maximum benefit of these resources for landscape, ecology and the ruined structure. In such an exposed, remote location not everything could be known at the start. The team responded to uncertainties on site with all work directed under a robust conservation philosophy agreed with Historic England. The conservation philosophy was to use a sympathetic set of materials and lime mortars in a buff hue that do not starkly contrast the ruin but blend in, celebrating the craft. Upon closer observation the viewer can distinguish the more recent additions – plain clay tiles for the arch repair, buff bricks for additional stability to the compromised openings, another hue of lime mortar to the family of historic lime colours present at the ruin, a lime mortar hardcapping with mixed-in horsehair over the wall heads for added strength when setting: all giving a distinctive appearance up close.