Frew Conservation are independent historic building consultants and training providers, specialising in the repair, conservation and understanding of traditional buildings.
We provide impartial, evidence-based advice and training to a wide range of clients throughout the UK. Specialist materials investigation and laboratory analysis form a key part of our consultancy, helping us understand how traditional buildings were constructed, diagnose the causes of deterioration and develop appropriate repair specifications. We work directly for building owners, trusts, charities and organisations, and also provide specialist conservation advice as part of wider project teams alongside architects, engineers, surveyors, craftspeople and contractors.
Our consultancy work centres on traditional masonry buildings, particularly those constructed of stone and lime mortar. We undertake condition surveys, materials investigation and analysis, technical specifications, conservation advice and quality inspections, helping clients make informed decisions about the care, repair and long-term conservation of historic buildings.
Alongside our consultancy services, we deliver a wide range of training in building conservation and traditional building skills. Working in partnership with experienced craftspeople and specialist consultants, we offer seminars, workshops, lectures, demonstrations and practical, hands-on training for professionals, organisations and contractors.
Based at Orwell Farm near Kinross, in the heart of Scotland, we are ideally located to serve clients throughout Scotland and across the UK, while also undertaking selected international commissions.
CPD Seminar
Masonry Conservation in Scotland:
Stonework, Lime Mortars & External Coatings
Friday 6 November 2026 09:30 - 14:00
Orwell Farm, KY13 9HB
£95 + VAT
Maximum 8 participants
Refreshments and lunch included
Join us for a CPD seminar exploring the conservation and repair of traditional masonry in Scotland.
The seminar is aimed principally at architects and building surveyors, and will also be relevant to structural engineers, planners, building standards professionals, contractors and others involved in the repair, alteration or conservation of traditional buildings.
The seminar will be split into two sessions, with plenty of opportunity for discussion and questions throughout.
Session 1 — Reading the Wall
Understanding Stonework, Construction, Finishes & Decay
Session 2 — Repairing the Wall
Stone Repair, Lime Mortars & External Coatings
Ticketing managed by Ticket Tailor. Secure online payments managed by Stripe.
Introduction to Lime Mortars
An introduction to lime, mortar materials and composition in traditional buildings aimed at homeowners and anyone with a general interest in old buildings. No previous technical knowledge is required.
Saturday 21 November 2026 10:00–12:00
Coffee and pastries from 09:45
Orwell Farm, KY13 9HB
£30 including VAT
Maximum 8 participants
Join us at our new premises at Orwell Farm for an informal Saturday morning introduction to lime mortars and the materials used in traditional masonry.
The session will look at what lime mortar is made from, the different types of lime available, the role of aggregates and additives, and how changes in composition affect the way a mortar performs.
We will also consider how traditional lime mortars differ from modern cement-based materials, why compatibility matters in older buildings, and some of the things to look for when examining existing mortar.
Please note this is NOT a practical hands-on course.
Ticketing managed by Ticket Tailor. Secure online payments managed by Stripe.