David Livingstone Museum

The museum is housed in a historically significant building, originally built in the 1780s as part of a textile mill. The building accommodated 24 families, including David Livingstone’s, and Livingstone himself was born there in 1813. The building’s historical nature added layers of complexity to the renovation, as it is a Category A listed structure, demanding strict adherence to conservation guidelines.

The primary materials used in the renovation of the David Livingstone Museum included masonry, steel, timber, and limecrete. Masonry was the main material due to the extensive repairs needed to address inadequacies in the building’s original construction. Steel and timber provided essential structural support. We introduced limecrete to improve the building’s breathability and combat moisture content, which was crucial given the building’s age and condition.

Challenges

One of the significant challenges faced during the renovation was the building’s extensive deterioration. The removal of the render covering the external masonry walls revealed numerous instances of sub-standard workmanship which required a sensitive and meticulous approach to preserve the structure while ensuring its stability. The involvement of conservation experts was crucial in navigating these challenges, as they ensured that all renovations adhered to historical preservation standards. The project involved rebuilding using original materials wherever possible, adding another layer of complexity.

Unexpected conditions during the renovation further complicated the project. Once work began, the true extent of the building’s poor condition became apparent. The project team managed these challenges through careful planning and engineering approaches that preserved the historical structure’s integrity.

The renovation of the David Livingstone Museum was a complex project that required balancing historical preservation with modern engineering solutions. The collaboration with Hoskins Architects and adherence to conservation guidelines ensured the preservation of a significant historical site while providing a modernised space for visitors to learn about David Livingstone’s legacy.