D E S I G N
Architectural Details • Room Rethinks • Publication Design • Website Design
When it comes to telling the story of a building or collection, Alex Ashworth brings decades of experience in writing and designing heritage print and online publications, from art books to historic building websites, working with conservation professionals, publishers, art dealers and private owners alike.
If original architectural details are missing and historically correct replacements are required, our architectural detail design service draws on extensive knowledge and a vast visual reference library to design historically accurate elements, and manages their making and installation.
When the presentation of an historic collection conflicts with modern living, our room rethink service helps historic house owners and curators to reorganise collections and evolve interiors with knowledge and flair; there is no point in being rigidly correct if the result isn’t enjoyable.
O U R H E R I T A G E D E S I G N S E R V I C E S
Room rethinks
We specialise in rethinking the presentation of collections, from single rooms to entire houses, to increase the appreciation and enjoyment of them, while evolving interiors to work with comfortable modern living.
It’s all about a subtle evolution, respectfully coaxing old arrangements into stylish, habitable rooms suited to contemporary living without looking over designed. Subtractions are more usually required, however if any additions are necessary, we can advise on and help to source suitable art, objects and furniture.
We can draw on additional specialist expertise whenever required from our network of trusted interior designers and decorators.
Architectural Details
Where architectural detail has been lost, or correct period detail is sought in the evolution of an historic building, our period detail design service supports conservation architects and building owners. We draw on our decades of experience and a vast visual reference library to specify and create drawings for historically accurate details.
We have designed and overseen the production and installation of historically appropriate doors, gates, roof trusses, windows, leaded lights, panelling, bookcases, and mantlepieces, to mention but a few examples. Clients typically say that whatever detail we design looks like it has always been there, and we like that.
Publication Design
We design visually engaging books, brochures and guide books on historic houses, art and object collections, and conservation services for conservation and heritage bodies, historic house custodians, art trusts and galleries amongst others.
By combining bold creativity with a profound knowledge of art and architectural history, we help our clients to tell a compelling story to consumer and expert audiences alike. We have a network of trusted specialist architectural and art photographers to choose from to suit individual projects.
We can produce short print runs of high quality books for private circulation or gifts.
Heritage Writing
In addition to writing historic building reports, we can write articles, case studies, advertisements, guide books and large format books on historic architecture, art and design for conservation bodies, publishers and private owners. Our writing is often engaged alongside our publication design service. Where drafts already exist, we provide an editing service to support in-house writers in peer-reviewing and polishing articles and case studies prior to publication.
Our rare multidisciplinary breadth brings added insight into heritage writing, moving seamlessly between architecture, art and design to create compelling stories grounded in fresh and often ground-breaking academic research and detail.
Digital Design
We design and build websites, and digital communications such as newsletters, that tell the story of an historic building and its collections in a compelling way, providing exceptional user experiences tailored to the identified needs and wants of specific audiences.
The unusual combination of our inspired creativity, technical knowledge and deep understanding of art and architectural history, gives our clients a valuable edge when it comes to helping them connect meaningfully with the lives of an audience, gathering data and attracting interest and visitors.
We use our knowledge of the field to create content for digital communications as well as to design and build them. You’re looking at an example of our work.
Advertisements
We write and design outstanding press advertisements for architects, conservators and art galleries for use in professional and consumer magazines and directories, as well as online.
Our advertising designs offer a high level of clarity, intrigue, and memorability to catch the eye and appeal to the mind of a targeted audience. By writing copy for advertisements as well as designing them, the two work hand in glove to enhance the power and clarity of the message and call to action.
We have good relationships with many heritage publications and can often secure advantageous advertising rates for our clients.