Chatham Historic Dockyard

The Georgian and Victorian Naval Dockyard at Chatham is the most complete surviving example in the world and the Mast Houses and Mould Loft are a unique survival of this building type.

Built in 1754, the building was conceived as eight adjoining timber frame sheds with large doors at each end to give access for the huge timbers and the assembled masts.  During construction the Admiralty Board decided to add a mould floor, a large clear space essential to every shipyard, over the central two bays.

We have managed this award-winning project of comprehensive repair of the fabric and alterations to accommodate a new exhibition including new escape staircases and the installation of extensive and complex building services.

"I was staggered by the scale and impressive authenticity of the restored building. Caroe and Partners have skilfully kept the sense of a functional and disciplined timber frame building;  the result is utterly authentic and has a powerful atmosphere."

Colin Amery, Financial Times