Business Details
20 Years
experience
Expert Dry Stone Walling & Conservation Services in Oxfordshire
Established in 2006, Hillrise Stonework specialises in traditional dry stone walling, conservation, and construction across Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. As professional members of the Dry Stone Walling Association, we combine over 30 years of expertise with a commitment to preserving historical building techniques. Our services include wall conservation, new dry stone wall construction, and bespoke design solutions for residential and commercial projects. We offer free pre-design consultations, planning assistance, and listed building consent applications, ensuring compliance with heritage regulations. Our team utilises locally sourced materials, including Tinkers Barn limestone and Hornton stone, to create durable, aesthetically authentic structures.We also provide certified dry stone walling courses, led by experienced instructors, to promote traditional craftsmanship. With a focus on sustainability and quality, our work enhances property value while maintaining the character of the Cotswold landscape. We have completed projects ranging from retaining walls to estate boundary restorations, serving both private clients and conservation boards. Our dedication to excellence has earned recognition, including a Hampton Court Silver Gilt Medal in 2012. Committed to client satisfaction, we prioritise clear communication, transparent processes, and tailored solutions for every project.
Services
Wall Conservation
Dry Stone Wall Construction
New Wall Design
Stone Cladding
Walling Courses
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer free pre-design consultation and planning application support.
- Our team holds professional membership in the Dry Stone Walling Association.
- We utilise locally sourced Cotswold limestone and traditional construction methods.
- We provide certified dry stone walling courses for skill development.
- Our work combines over 30 years of experience with heritage preservation expertise.
Associations and certifications
- Dry Stone Walling Association
What people say
Exceptional workmanship
Knowledgeable team
Preserved historical integrity
Excellent course instruction
Services
Wall Conservation
Specialist conservation of historic dry stone walls, including listed buildings. We conduct condition assessments, prepare planning applications, and execute repairs using traditional methods. Our team ensures structural integrity while maintaining historical accuracy through appropriate stone selection and lime mortar techniques.
Dry Stone Wall Construction
Custom dry stone wall construction using locally sourced limestone. Services include design consultation, material selection, and expert installation of coursed or random walling. We incorporate traditional coping techniques and weathering details to ensure durability and aesthetic harmony with the Cotswold landscape.
Walling Courses
Certified dry stone walling courses for all skill levels. Delivered by professional instructors, our two-day workshops cover basic techniques, stone selection, and traditional construction methods. Participants gain hands-on experience building permanent structures while learning about historical walling practices in the Cotswolds.
Stone Cladding
Traditional dry stone cladding solutions for modern buildings. We apply authentic walling techniques to create decorative exterior finishes for dwellings and outbuildings. This method combines historical aesthetics with contemporary construction requirements using locally quarried materials.
Planning Consultation
Expert guidance for listed building consent and planning applications. Our consultants provide technical drawings, material specifications, and heritage impact assessments. We work with local authorities to ensure compliance with conservation regulations while achieving clients' project goals.
People
Richard Gray
Director
With over 30 years in building conservation, Richard established Hillrise Stonework in 2006. He holds DSWA Level 2 certification and teaches dry stone walling courses. His expertise includes historic stone selection and traditional construction techniques.
John Allison
CEO of Manufacture Company
Experienced construction professional with expertise in traditional building methods. Provides strategic leadership for complex restoration projects and modern applications of historic techniques.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We operate primarily in Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, and surrounding counties including Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire.
Are your walling courses certified?
Yes, our courses are led by professional DSWA members and include certification for completed training.
Do you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we specialise in conservation work requiring listed building consent and planning applications.
What stone types do you use?
We work with locally sourced Cotswold limestone, including Tinkers Barn and Hornton stone varieties.
Can you repair damaged dry stone walls?
Yes, we offer specialist repair services using traditional techniques to restore structural integrity.
Do you provide design consultation?
Yes, we offer free pre-design consultations and planning application support for all projects.
