The SPAB

About us

The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) believes old buildings have a future. From cottages to castles and from churches to cathedrals we are here to help buildings and the people who care for them. Through our unique training schemes, courses, advice and research we help people put out expertise into practice.

Founded by William Morris in 1877, the SPAB was established in response to the work of Victorian architects whose enthusiasm for harmful restoration caused irreparable damage. Today the SPAB encourages excellence in new design to enrich and complement the built historic environment. We train new generations of architectural professionals and building craftspeople to shape this landscape with sensitivity and skill, and we play a statutory role as adviser to local planning authorities. In our casework we campaign actively to protect old buildings at risk.

SPAB: hands on history. Join today to support our positive, practical approach to building conservation.

Mission and Vision

The SPAB Manifesto of 1877 continues to guide the Society’s overall purpose and sets out a distinctive SPAB Approach to building conservation. The Vision, Mission and Values of our current strategy indicate ways in which the Society should pursue its aims in the 21st century to maintain its relevance and authority.

Vision

• That old buildings are understood, cared for and appreciated today, and protected for future generations.

Mission

• The SPAB Approach is adopted by all people caring for old buildings.
• To supply expertise that keeps old buildings useful, beautiful and part of people’s lives.
• To connect with all people who appreciate old buildings or care for them.

Values

• That buildings should be valued for their entire history, recognising understanding and respecting change.
• That the authenticity of fabric, as a true record of the past, is best respected by regular maintenance and skilled conservative repair.
• That changes and additions, where essential, should contribute positively to a building’s interest and story.
• That people and the buildings they construct are a conduit for knowledge across generations.
• That knowledge of the SPAB Approach and of the good conservation practice it encourages, should be available as widely as possible.
• That decisions about old buildings should take a long-term view.