Ernest Barnes Ltd is a family run business that prides itself in the high level of expertise it offers prospective clients. Our directors are highly qualified in the field of historic brick and flintwork conservation. We are also able to call upon an experienced group of associates that enable us to provide a comprehensive range of heritage services.
David has over forty years of experience working in the conservation sector. He began as an apprentice working for a large, national construction company. During this time he received six prestigious awards, including the coveted silver trowel for excellence in brickwork. He is a highly qualified practitioner and was awarded Distinction for his MSc in the Conservation of the Historic Environment from the College of Estate Management at Reading University in 2012. In 2014 he was awarded a Distinction for his MSc in Building Conservation from York University. At the same time he received the Mitford-Foullerton Prize for Outstanding Student in Building Conservation from the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum. David has considerable experience of undertaking brick and flint repairs and has written condition surveys for a wide range of building types and styles covering over 500 years of architectural history.
Karen has an active interest in the conservation of historic buildings. She holds a degree, Masters and PhD in Chemistry from Cambridge University and is particularly interested the chemistry of historic mortars and the chemical processes that occur as brickwork deteriorates naturally and through attack by pollutants. Karen’s attention to detail and understanding of chemical processes fully compliments David’s practical background and extensive knowledge of brick and flintwork.