Historic conservatory transformed into new business venue

The historic conservatory at Leighton Hall has been given a new lease of life as a contemporary business hub and meetings venue.

Thanks to a successful grant application bid to the Heritage Stimulus Fund - grant for programme of major works, the conservatory has been carefully restored back to its original design.

The owners of Leighton Hall worked with Crosby Granger Architects and DEC Construction, both based in Kendal, to make the hub as sustainable as possible, with insulation made from recycled glass pebbles

Estate Manager Lucy Arthurs still lives in the family home near Carnforth, with its links to the Gillow furniture making dynasty, and manages the popular visitor attraction. She says: “I remember my parents hosting plant fairs, exhibitions and events in the old conservatory, so it was terribly sad to see the state it had got into. In the current climate, restoring it has been a huge, and at times, a scary commitment, but the results have surpassed our hopes.

“We are already getting enquiries from companies and groups looking to have that meeting or celebration somewhere more interesting and inspiring than a bland office, or city centre hotel. We never take our glorious surroundings here for granted and it’s wonderful to think our conservatory will once again bring pleasure to so many people, from our regular visitors and tours to a whole new audience.”