Museum of Flight
Our Mission
GLM were commissioned to carry out conservation works on the Second World War hangars at Scotland's National Aviation Museum at East Fortune Airfield.
GLM were employed by the National Museums of Scotland to carry out conservation work on the historic Second World War hangers at the Museum of Flight. We saw this project as much more akin to the preservation of museum artefacts than to a normal building maintenance project, except that the ‘artefacts’ had to continue to survive the unpredictability of Scottish weather.
Before commencing any design or specification work, we set about extensive research to gain a thorough understanding of the buildings, their significance, design and evolution. Where possible, referring back to original drawings and specifications.
The scope of the work had already been decided by the museums, so our main role was to conscientiously implement the brief. This was easier said than done because the perception of the buildings at the Museum by tradesmen was inevitably far removed from what was required. As well as working with the museum, we had a very close liaison with Historic Scotland, drawing on their experience at both a technical and philosophical level.
The project required careful and very explicit documentation, a genuine attempt to get across to contractors what was required of them, followed by keeping a close watch on the works. We like to prepare detailed drawings wherever appropriate rather than relying on schedules alone.
