Royal Warrant holder to lead heritage repair project using traditional Japanese techniques and sustainable practices

DBR Limited, a leading specialist in historic building conservation, has been appointed to undertake specialist heritage repairs to the historic Minka House at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

The contract, commissioned by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Capital Projects Team, involves essential heritage repairs to Minka House, a traditionally constructed timber and thatched building of significant cultural and historical importance. Originally belonging to the Yonezu family who lived in the house after their home was bombed in WWII, the structure was donated to Kew by the Japan Minka Reuse and Recycle Association as part of the Japan 2001 Festival.

Minka simply means ‘houses of the people’, and it describes the simple homes of country-folk that were commonplace in Japan until the mid-20th century.

The building represents an exceptional example of traditional Japanese architecture and serves as an unsung architectural gem within the world-renowned botanical gardens.

Combined specialist expertise

DBR’s approach combines traditional craftsmanship with sustainable conservation principles. Using natural materials, Master Thatching Ltd will employ specialist Japanese thatching techniques for the thatched roof renewal, while Sands & Randall will undertake traditional Japanese joinery work on the historic timber frame. DBR Conservation will handle the interior repairs, including the mud floor and plaster wall panels. All timber will be responsibly sourced from Japan and shipped to the UK in accordance with the UK Forestry Commissions Requirements.

DBR is collaborating closely with Clews Architects Ltd, Firmingers and Hockley & Dawson Consulting Engineers Ltd to ensure all works are carefully phased to minimise environmental impact. Alltask Limited Scaffolding will provide a full temporary roof and bespoke scaffold enclosure designed specifically to protect the delicate structure while providing safe access for conservation works.

A new lease of life

The project aims to preserve this unique heritage structure for future generations through specialist conservation works that respect both the building’s cultural integrity and the surrounding natural environment. All repairs will be delivered using sustainable, responsibly sourced materials and ecology-led working methods to protect local wildlife, particularly bat populations whose activity periods directly influence the project timeline.

A carefully planned programme

Adrian Attwood, Chairman of DBR, commented: “We are honoured to be entrusted with this culturally significant project. The Minka House represents a treasured example of traditional Japanese heritage, and our work will ensure its preservation through specialist craftsmanship and sustainable practices. This project demonstrates our commitment to balancing heritage conservation with ecological responsibility, drawing on the expertise we have developed over three decades working on the UK’s most sensitive and acclaimed historic buildings.”