Ingleton Wood celebrates success at the Maldon District Conservation & Design Awards

Ingleton Wood celebrates success at the Maldon District Conservation & Design Awards Friday, 28th February 2025

Ingleton Wood is delighted to have been part of the transformative project at the Museum of Power in Maldon, Essex, which won the Building Conservation category, and was highly commended in the Design category, at the Maldon District Conservation & Design Awards 2024.

This prestigious award scheme, now in its 41st year, is organised by Maldon District Council to promote building conservation and inspire progressive design that enhances both the natural and built environment.

A vital regional attraction

The Museum of Power has long been a cherished landmark in the Maldon district, drawing visitors both locally and from further afield.

Beyond its static displays, the museum offers a vibrant programme of events, seasonal celebrations, and educational visits that position it as a cultural hub.

However, research indicated that many visitors only attended once, suggesting a need for enhanced facilities and experiences to foster repeat visits and drive long-term growth.

A vision for the future

With funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Museum’s trustees embarked on an ambitious redevelopment plan aiming at improving visitor facilities, layout, and the overall experience.

Ingleton Wood were appointed in 2019 to provide full multidisciplinary services, including architecture, planning, mechanical and electrical engineering, structural and civil engineering, and project management consultancy, to turn this vision into reality.

Despite delays caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic, construction commenced in May 2023, with the project completed in February 2024.

Thoughtful design approach

The project centred on a 125m² extension to the Museum’s western elevation, which now houses a new entrance, reception, shop, toilet, storage facilities, and a cafe extension.

The design was informed by Historic England’s guidance to ensure the extension complemented the original building without overshadowing its historic character.

The new elements feature industrial facade panels, a nod to the site’s heritage, offering a crisp, modern aesthetic that contrasts elegantly with the original 1903 brick structure.

The glazed enclosure at the entrance allows visitors to fully appreciate the building’s architectural heritage, retaining and showcasing original arched windows and stonework.

The internal space has been optimised to improve functionality and enhance the visitor experience, aligning with the Museum’s long-term sustainability goal.

A collaborative effort

Throughout the design process, Ingleton Wood collaborated closely with Maldon District Council’s conservation officer, Historic England, and a heritage consultant to achieve a balance between modern needs and historical preservation.

Historic England praised the extension as an “appropriate modern response” that respects the Museum’s architectural significance.

Looking ahead

The enhanced Museum of Power is already making strides in attracting more visitors and creating a space that inspires return visits – with its thoughtful design and upgraded facilities paving the way for continued success as a cultural and educational landmark.