Stables Restoration

Restoration to timber and brick work at Grade II listed Victorian Stables

The Food Museum, Stowmarket

The Victorian Abbot’s Hall Stables is a Grade II listed building located at the Food Museum in Stowmarket. Being the first building visitors encounter as they enter the museum, it plays a key role as a gateway to the site’s history.

Built in the 19th century, the Stables originally served Abbot’s Hall, a high-status brick mansion dating from 1709, located a few metres to the south-east.

This project encompassed a comprehensive refurbishment of the stables’ distinctive architectural features. The restoration, completed in June 2024, focused on the refurbishment of the building’s cupolas, windows, vents, and extensive timber and brickwork.

The cupolas located at each end of the building above the stable rooms were one of the most challenging aspects of this project. What are the “Cupolas”? These are decorative timber framing and brick nogging turrets on the roof’s ridge, with louvred openings and a cruciform gabled roof covered in slates, surmounted by a wind vane, and served to ventilate the stables below. Their timber and brickwork were extensively damaged, causing further issues inwards into the building, as their decay allowed rainwater to seep through.

Working in partnership with Stowe Building, Modece Architects led the specification and project management, closely overseeing the restoration process to ensure care and suitability of the historic building.

The Victorian building is a remarkable example of its architectural era, retaining original stall fittings, ironmongery, tiling, and polychrome detailing. Restoring these elements was essential in preserving the building’s historical integrity and ensuring its continued role in showcasing traditional craftsmanship.

This project has successfully preserved and revitalised an important heritage asset within the Food Museum and the Stowmarket Conservation area.