Contractor Appointed to Conserve Historic Japanese Farmhouse

Historic building conservation specialists DBR Limited have been appointed to undertake specialist heritage repairs to a traditional Japanese farmhouse at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

The contract involves essential repairs to Minka House, a traditionally constructed timber and thatched building of cultural and historical importance.

Originally belonging to the Yonezu family who lived in the house after their home was bombed in WWII, the structure was donated to Kew by the Japan Minka Reuse and Recycle Association as part of the Japan 2001 Festival.

The building is an example of traditional Japanese architecture and is hailed as an “unsung architectural gem” within the botanical gardens.

Combined Craftsmanship

DBR’s approach combines traditional craftsmanship with sustainable conservation principles. Using natural materials, Master Thatching Ltd will employ specialist Japanese thatching techniques for the thatched roof renewal, while Sands & Randall will undertake traditional Japanese joinery work on the historic timber frame.

DBR Conservation will handle the interior repairs, including the mud floor and plaster wall panels. All timber will be responsibly sourced from Japan and shipped to the UK in accordance with the UK Forestry Commissions Requirements.

DBR is collaborating closely with Clews Architects Ltd, Firmingers and Hockley & Dawson Consulting Engineers Ltd to ensure all works are carefully phased to minimise environmental impact. Alltask Limited Scaffolding will provide a full temporary roof and bespoke scaffold enclosure designed specifically to protect the delicate structure while providing safe access for conservation works.

A New Lease of Life

The project aims to preserve this unique heritage structure for future generations through conservation works that respect both the building’s cultural integrity and the surrounding natural environment, says DBR.

All repairs will be delivered using sustainable, responsibly sourced materials and ecology-led working methods to protect local wildlife, particularly bat populations whose activity periods directly influence the project timeline.

Adrian Attwood, Chairman of DBR, commented: “We are honoured to be entrusted with this culturally significant project. The Minka House represents a treasured example of traditional Japanese heritage, and our work will ensure its preservation through specialist craftsmanship and sustainable practices.

“This project demonstrates our commitment to balancing heritage conservation with ecological responsibility, drawing on the expertise we have developed over three decades working on the UK’s most sensitive and acclaimed historic buildings.”

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