Eskdale Restoration is based in Lincolnshire, UK. From here, and on site we conserve, restore and create objects and interiors. We also offer consultation and advice, paint analysis and report writing.
Along the way we have worked with/for and continue to learn from the most distinguished architects and craftsmen. We also undertake work from private individuals, museums and galleries, local authorities, historic and heritage organisations and designers.
Eskdale Restoration is able to draw on the skills of highly knowledgeable and skilled team members and have over 75-years of collective experience in the fields of conservation, restoration and historic decorative art and craft.
For further information on our services, or if you are simply interested in the work we do, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Susan Lee BA (Hons), MA.
After gaining her honours and master’s degree in conservation and restoration of historic objects, Susan established Eskdale Restoration together with Nigel Leaney in 2005. This time incorporated her most regarded achievement – a 17 year apprenticeship to a master craftsman, Nigel. This extensive learning included traditional techniques, methods and approaches to historic decoration, painting & decorating, gilding, marbling, woodgraining and signwriting. It is pertinant to view these skills in their historical context so as to better understand our decorative history and its value.
Susan is now acting paint advisor for the Lincoln Diocese Advisory Committee (DAC).
Nigel Leaney
Following is a short synopsis of the master craftsman Nigel Leaney’s extensive work and experience. Back in the 1950’s he served a 5-year painting and decorating apprenticeship and gained an Advanced City & Guilds with distinction; he also holds a full technological certificate.
He gained a certificate in education in Leeds, a diploma in further education (FE) in Nottingham also 5 exhibition certificates (practical). In addition, he has gained 30 years teaching experience from craft students to degree students at Lincoln. He was course tutor teaching conservation & restoration of gilding and painted decoration, including the fabric of buildings, historic interiors and objects i.e. furniture and frames. He was also course leader of Historic Decorative Crafts at HND level and a visiting lecturer for the College of Estate Management, Reading. And by no means least, he had also conducted countless demonstrations, workshops and talks.
Up until the time of his death he was acting paint advisor for the Lincoln Diocese Advisory Committee (DAC) and similarly the advisor to the Historic Churches Committee (HCC).
Nigel had spent over 60 years in practice, study and research into his specialist craft. Passing on these skills and knowledge from past generations had been always very important to him.
The last 17 years of his life he spent passing on these skills and knowledge directly to Susan Lee and between them they established Eskdale Restoration.
Nigel Leaney (1942-2022) sadly passed after enjoying what was to be his last Christmas with his family in 2022.
Chris Lee
Chris is a highly skilled time served painter and decorator with over 40 years experience. His early days saw him under the tuition of the master craftsman Nigel Leaney, he then went on to carry out an Advanced City & Guilds 4 year apprenticeship at BP Decorator’s in Lincoln. In addition Chris is a skilled in lime pointing and plastering.
Terry Welbourn
Terry has a background in art and design, specialising in graphic and exhibition design. He obtained a post graduate certificate in management at Nottingham Trent University. As well as contributing artistically Terry is responsible for administration, finance and accounts.
