Professional Building Conservator
My background
My name is Philip Harris. I began my apprenticeship in England in the late 1970s as an antiques restorer and subsequently undertook training as a furniture conservator. Despite the seemingly disparate nature of these fields from building restoration, it was through the art of restoring furniture that I acquired a strong foundation of knowledge. The proficiency in wood repair techniques that I employ today was honed during my time as a furniture conservator. As the antiques industry began to dwindle, I transitioned into the field of carpentry and joinery.
In the 1990s, I relocated to Australia and underwent further training to become a certified carpenter, earning the Australian equivalent of the English City and Guilds certification in carpentry and joinery. I have since obtained a degree in furniture design from the Australian National University. During this time, I developed high levels of cabinetmaking and joinery skills, including carving, marquetry, and detailed bespoke joinery work. My work was exhibited across most of the states in Australia. This has given me the skills and ability to make and repair almost any object requested in a building, including spiral staircases, handrails, curved windows, and doors.
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After returning to England, I earned a Masters Degree in Building Conservation from York University, where my area of study was post-industrial conservation. I delved into various aspects of conservation prevalent in traditional brick buildings, including techniques for conserving brick, lime, paints, timber, and metal. My final dissertation focused on the intricate mechanisms of decay in buildings. With over 30 years of experience as a self-employed carpenter, I specialize in restoring both listed and unlisted buildings.
Qualifications
MSc Building Conservation - University of York
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BA Visual - Australian National University
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Carpentry and Joinery Trade Certificate - Randwick TAFE