PROJECT SUMMARY

A project to convert a redundant cowshed at Heatherton Park Farm near Bradford on Tone, into a studio, office, and workshop space to enable expansion and further development of an existing fine-art restoration business.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

This project will enable a well established business -  specialising in fine art restoration and conservation – to expand and develop which will help supporting rural regeneration and create employment in one of Somerset’s key business sectors,  the creative industries.

The specific aims of the project which will lead to expansion of the business are:

• To increase specialisation within picture restoration to gain more museum and collection market.
• To maintain large studio space to enable large picture work / other restorers.
• To market and concentrate on period frame making / gilding / carving
• To condense all activities under one roof.
• To offer workshop space for other local artisans

The business is optimistic about the success of this new venture because of their strengths: they have well established restoration skills and this new site is in a prime location for easy client access. As there are fewer specialised restorers and frame makers now practising to museum standards this site will act as a ‘one stop shop’ for clients / museums wanting items restored.

The purpose-designed studio will allow greater efficiency and higher standards and raise the profile of the business, enabling them to take advantage of recent growth in art and interior market and the local arts revival in the West Country and London based clients moving down. In addition there will be opportunities for web based frame sales.

The project started work in November 2007 and is due for completion at the end of March 2008

If you interested in finding out more about the work of the business please visit their website: http://www.everett-art.co.uk/