This webinar gives an overview of Victorian glasshouses in Ireland, and is informed by the recent process of restoration undertaken on two significant glasshouses in County Dublin.

The speakers, Conservation Grade II accredited architect Katia Papkovskaia and Alexander Downes, Director of Lambstongue Ltd., investigate the history, design, and horticultural implications of glasshouses in Ireland, with particular focus on Victorian innovations. This is informed by a case study on the conservation and reconstruction of the Victorian glasshouses at Ardgillan Castle, made by the Scottish manufacturer Mc Kenzie and Moncur circa 1906.

The webinar examines both the engineering and horticultural sides of the glasshouses, as well as the process of detailed design within the frameworks of public procurement and building regulations.

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES

Katia Papkovskaia
Katia Papkovskaia is a practicing Grade II conservation architect. For the past 12 years, she has led many conservation projects in the UK and Ireland, ranging from conservation masterplans and public realm works to repairs and alterations to private houses. Katia was the project architect on the recent restoration of the Ardgillan Castle glasshouses for Fingal County Council. She has a particular interest in conservation technology, glasshouse conservation and horticulture.

Alexander Downes
Alexander Downes is Director of Lambstongue Ltd. Lambstongue is a Dublin-based Irish company that specialises in the repair and manufacture of traditional timber and metal windows, rooflights and glazed screens with a strong design and conservation sensibility. In addition to the firm’s experience in traditional joinery, it has pioneered expertise in the conservation and thermal upgrading of metal doors and windows, working with steel, cast-iron, bronze and leadwork, including extensive glasshouse works.