This is a project of the Friends of Hamilton Square Conservation Area (opens in new page)

The purpose of this guide is to help owners, agents, property managers and other professionals who are concerned with the external and internal redecoration and maintenance of properties within conservation areas. Currently, this Design Guide concentrates on Birkenhead’s distinctive Georgian Quarter (around Hamilton Square). We owe a debt of gratitude to the Edinburgh Conservation Project upon which much of this advice is based.

Most pages cover the importance of the topic; what to look out for; what to do if you find problems; how to avoid creating problems, and the historical background supporting the advice given. Feel free to browse the site using the contents list below. To get an overview of the whole site check out the sitemap, and if you are looking for something specific try using the search box above.

• About the Birkenhead Georgian Quarter
• Seasonal checklists
  • Before winter sets in
  • Start of Spring
• The building's exterior
  • Decorative Finishes
  • General considerations for all period metal work
  • Down pipes, gutters and other rain water goods
  • Balconies and other ironwork
  • Railings
  • Roof work
  • Steps, Platts (Paving) and Arches
  • Doors
  • Windows
• The interior of the building
  • Decorative Finishes
  • Internal Plastering
  • Woodwork, doors and windows
  • Dampness
  • Insulation of Roofs and Dormers
  • Attic Water Tanks and internal pipework
  • Fireplaces
  • Internal Period metalwork
• Getting work done
  • Seeking Listed Planning Permission
  • Suppliers and Installers
• References

This guide will cover the steps you need to consider so that the building has a long life and, generally, increases in overall value.

Further advice is listed at the end of this publication under References.

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