Returning a 17th-century market house to its pre-war glory

The Market House in Princes Risborough is a Grade II listed building dating from the early 17th century, standing at the heart of the town's historic marketplace. When MDJ Conservation first visited the building, it had fallen into serious disrepair — structurally compromised, externally weathered and in desperate need of full refurbishment.

Working in close collaboration with the town council and local community groups, we undertook a comprehensive restoration programme to bring the Market House back to its former, pre-war glory — while carefully preserving every aspect of its historic character and significance.

The external brickwork was extensively repointed using our hot mix lime — a traditional method that produces an exceptionally durable and breathable mortar perfectly suited to historic fabric. Various areas of failed brickwork were carefully rebuilt to match the original bond and colour. The ground floor arcade, with its distinctive brick arches, was consolidated and restored, and a new external staircase was installed to provide modern access without compromising the historic appearance.

Internally, extensive structural works were carried out to stabilise the building, followed by a full fit-out to create a functional council chamber and community space — complete with new services, finishes and fittings, all designed sensitively within the historic shell.