Heritage management and your property

When you own a heritage home, it's essential that you know what you can and can't do when thinking changes, which is where heritage management consultants like Anne Napier can help you.

What does a heritage consultant do?

We provide technical and conservation advice to owners of heritage places, as well as undertaking assessment work of these places and preparing conservation management plans and reports. For example, we give advice to owners wishing to extend their heritage-listed house.

Is heritage consultancy a booming part of the wider architectural industry?

I would not go so far as to say "booming", but we are living in times of increasing awareness and appreciation of our heritage. As more heritage places throughout Australia are protected by statutory controls, there will necessarily be more work for heritage consultants.

What is the Burra Charter?

The Burra Charter is an important document that sets a standard of practice for those who provide advice, make decisions about, or undertake works to places of cultural significance, including owners, managers and custodians. It is very highly regarded.

Why did you decide to go into this sort of work?

As an architect, I have had a longstanding interest in heritage buildings, so my transition into the specialist field of heritage consultancy was a very natural progression. 

What should someone look for when choosing a heritage consultant?

A heritage consultant should be familiar with, and apply, the principles of the Burra Charter. A personal recommendation is always a good starting point. It is always advisable to obtain a written quotation outlining the precise scope of the consultant's proposed work as well as a fee schedule. 

What does it take to do the work you do?

Many heritage consultants are architects, but some have backgrounds in related disciplines such as archaeology, cultural heritage and planning. There are also postgraduate courses available. I find it's necessary to have good research skills, an eye for detail and an interest in history.

Contact a heritage consultant in your area to find out more about heritage management and your property: