Conservation Projects

The first signs of human settlement in Ireland dates from around 8000 BC and we are fortunate to have the remains of a large number of buildings that give us an insight into our past. Conservation of those structures calls for great care and minimal disturbance as they are a valuable link to our ancestors. Buildings differ from each other and require individual conservation solutions to ensure their stability and preservation. Before any work starts a detailed assessment must be carried out to show the structural composition of the building. The treatment of masonry walls, carved and moulded stonework, harling, lime plaster and mortar require careful research which provides a full understanding of the method's and material's used in their construction.

Lime mortar was the most common bonding agent used in traditional building prior to the introduction of Portland cement in the mid-nineteenth century. The use of Portland cement in protected structures is historically inappropriate and will lead to further damage of the masonry. Mathieu & Mitchell have a wide range of contacts and are experienced in carrying out through and efficient historical research. Improving the thermal performance of historic buildings using hemp lime insulation, breathable hemp floor and roof insulation is a growing sector in our business.

Working closely with Grade 1 and 2 Conservation Architects, Engineers and Building Surveyors we are able to ensure that our highly skilled and experienced workforce can carry out any conservation project to the highest standards.

View some of our Conservation Projects below

Irish workhouse center, Portumna
Re-development Works at IWC

This project involved the re-development of Block A at the Workhouse complex

The finished project with the room back in use
Stencil work at IWC Portumna

Repairing lime plaster and reproduction of stencil work to match the original in the boardroom

Roxborough Gates & Boundary Wall
ROXBOROUGH GATES RESTORATION

Restoration of the main entrance to Roxborough House which was the birthplace of Isabella Augusta Persse later known as Lady Gregory.

Lime washing of Yeats College Galway
LIME WASHING YEATS COLLEGE

Lime washing to the West elevation of Yeats College, located on College Road in Galway City.

Irish Workhouse Centre Portumna chimney replastering
CHIMNEY RESTORATION IWC

Restoration of 8 chimney stacks on the Irish workhouse center in Portumna Co. Galway

Farmhouse Conservation and Extension
Farmhouse Conservation and Extension

Conservation of a derelict farmhouse and the construction of an extension.

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Happy clients

  • "Mathieu & Mitchell built an extension to our period home in 2009/2010. The workmanship was excellent. We were particularly happy with the stone work which was in keeping with the character of the existing buildings. We found the builders to be conscientious and diligent, with a keen eye to detail. Overall, we were most satisfied with our finished home".
    Therese and Kieran Conlon, Ballimotte, Co. Sligo
  • “We are extremely pleased with the work carried out on the recent extension we have had added on to our home. We found that Mathieu and Mitchell’s design and build system worked very well and gave great value for money. Their attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, quality materials and encyclopedic knowledge of the building industry meant that they were a pleasure to work with. Throughout, the builders were on time, tidy and very safety conscious. They always kept us informed of what was going on. We would have no hesitation in recommending or hiring them again”
    Gary and Bernie Feeney, Killeenadeema, Loughrea, Co. Galway
  • “I gave M&M the basic layout of what I wanted and their design team did the rest. Their foreman was always willing to answer any questions or concerns we had. Although this was a small residential project their workmanship, attention to detail and safety procedures were second to none. I cannot thank Laurik, Tom and all the M&M crew enough.”
    Mary Griffith, Oranmore, Co. Galway
  • “Your company provided the best overall quote not just in terms of value for money, but in how the work would be carried out, materials to be used and possible finishing options. The quality of work undertaken was very high, done professionally and with a smile. Would I employ them again and would I recommend them to a friend? Well yes, I would on both counts”.
    Charlie Currie, Ardskeabeg, Ballyglunin, Tuam, Co. Galway
  • "After being disappointed with the modern materials and techniques we approached M&M to try and find a solution to the serious problem that we were having in our home. A solution was offered which we were happy to try and one year on we are totally happy with the result"
    Eric & Esther Mullin