Researching Scotland’s Buildings
An introduction to research sources and methods for architectural and construction history in Scotland.
A key need when approaching a repair or conservation project is to understand the cultural significance of the building or site. To be able to do this you must be aware of its history and historical associations.
The first of our morning talks will introduce you to methods for dating and understanding the development of Scotland’s traditional architecture. This will include sharing key sources for researching our historic built environment. A discussion will follow on how to extract historical information about Scotland’s buildings from a wide range of popular (and some obscure) archival material.
The morning will conclude with a talk on the ways Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is revolutionising architectural research in Scotland.
A networking lunch will provide those opting to purchase the full-day learning experience the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed.
You will then be invited to view a display of rare archive material including cast iron foundry catalogues, builders’ treatises, construction textbooks, architectural guides and other unusual items from the HES Archive, the Engine Shed library and the speakers’ personal collections.
Learning outcomes
You will:
- Learn how to place a building, site or area within the historical development timeline of Scottish architecture, townscape and construction technology.
- Understand how to use common research materials to help determine the cultural significance of an historic building or site in Scotland.
- Learn how upcoming developments by HES Archives will facilitate and enhance how researchers can study Scotland’s historic architecture and built environment.
Speakers
- Gordon Urquhart, Postgraduate Course Manager, Historic Environment Scotland
- Fran Baseby, Deputy Head of Archives, Historic Environment Scotland
Dates
Performances on 5/8/2025 12:00:00 AM
Full Day Learning Experience
Thursday 8 May 2025 9:30AM to 4:00PM
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Engine Shed , Forthside Way, Stirling, FK8 2BY
We encourage graduates, heritage professionals and building practitioners from all disciplines interested in developing their knowledge and practice in traditional buildings to consider attending.
We also welcome anyone responsible for a traditional building or with an interest in the broader aspects of architectural history and building conservation in Scotland.
This learning session can be used towards your continued professional development (CPD). A certificate of attendance will be issued following participation.
Who should attend?- Refreshments will be provided on arrival and lunch will be catered. Please contact our events team with any special dietary requirements.
Cancellation and Refunds
- Visit Historic Environment Scotland's Consumer Terms Site for information on our cancellation and refund policy.
Tickets must be purchased ‘per individual’
If you would like to book multiple tickets on behalf of your organisation, invoicing can be arranged. Please email technicaleducation@hes.scot for more information.
Group bookingsHistoric Scotland Members can claim 10% discount using the promo code HSMember.
Please bring your membership card with you on the day. Not a member? Join now to start enjoying the benefits.
Students currently undertaking a college or university course can use the code Student to obtain a free ticket. This is only redeemable when signing up with a valid student email address and upon production of a valid student ID card.
Discounted tickets- full day learning experience (in person) - $75.00 (Rank = 0)
Full day ticket includes lunch and refreshments and a display of rare archive material including cast iron foundry catalogues, builders’ treatises, construction textbooks, architectural guides and other unusual items from the HES Archive, the Engine Shed library and the speakers’ personal collections.
- virtual attendance - $30.00 (Rank = 0)
We encourage graduates, heritage professionals and building practitioners from all disciplines interested in developing their knowledge and practice in traditional buildings to consider attending.
We also welcome anyone responsible for a traditional building or with an interest in the broader aspects of architectural history and building conservation in Scotland.
This learning session can be used towards your continued professional development (CPD). A certificate of attendance will be issued following participation.
Who should attend?- Refreshments will be provided on arrival and lunch will be catered. Please contact our events team with any special dietary requirements.
Cancellation and Refunds
- Visit Historic Environment Scotland's Consumer Terms Site for information on our cancellation and refund policy.
Tickets must be purchased ‘per individual’
If you would like to book multiple tickets on behalf of your organisation, invoicing can be arranged. Please email technicaleducation@hes.scot for more information.
Group bookingsHistoric Scotland Members can claim 10% discount using the promo code HSMember.
Please bring your membership card with you on the day. Not a member? Join now to start enjoying the benefits.
Students currently undertaking a college or university course can use the code Student to obtain a free ticket. This is only redeemable when signing up with a valid student email address and upon production of a valid student ID card.
Discounted tickets