Est. 2004 - Cheltenham & the Cotswolds
Heritage and listed building work in Cheltenham
Older homes need more than standard building work. The materials, proportions, details and previous alterations all matter. Tombs Developments works on period and listed properties with the aim of protecting what gives the building its character while making the home easier to live in today.
For period homes that deserve the right kind of attention
A period property can be full of charm, but also full of questions. What should be repaired rather than replaced? Which materials belong? How do you improve the home without flattening the character that made it worth saving?
Tombs Developments works on heritage and listed buildings across Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, often alongside heritage architects, conservation specialists and skilled trades. The work can include sensitive repairs, structural changes, lime plastering, stonework, oak detailing and wider refurbishments where the original building needs to lead the decisions.
Recent work
A closer look at our recent heritage work
Period and listed property projects across Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds.
When the architect's vision and the building's character both need protecting
Heritage projects often involve more voices around the table: architects, structural engineers, conservation officers, specialist suppliers and trades who understand traditional materials. Tombs works well in that setting, keeping the work moving on site while respecting the design, the condition of the building and the details that matter most.
How we work
From early permissions to the final hand-finished details
Heritage work asks for a slower, more thoughtful route through the build. The right decisions need to be made before work starts, and the right people need to be involved once the building opens up.
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Understanding the building
Reviewing the property, drawings, existing materials and previous alterations, so the work starts with a clear understanding of what should be protected, repaired or changed.
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Planning and heritage liaison
Working with architects, heritage consultants, structural engineers and local planning or conservation teams where the project requires a more sensitive approval route.
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Specialist trades and materials
Coordinating the right people for traditional materials and methods, including lime plastering, lime mortar, stonework, oak, joinery and repair-led building work.
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Building work and sensitive repairs
Carrying out structural changes, repairs, openings, roof work, internal alterations and services upgrades in a way that respects the original fabric of the building.
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Finishes, details and handover
Completing the visible details, final finishes, checks and handover, so the property feels properly restored rather than stripped of what made it special.
What we build
Traditional materials need people who know how to work with them
The right method matters in an older building. Modern shortcuts can look wrong, trap moisture or make a period home harder to look after over time.
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Lime plastering
Breathable internal finishes for older walls, helping retain the character of the property while using materials suited to traditional construction.
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Lime mortar
Pointing and repair work using mortar that works with stone and older brickwork, rather than fighting against the building.
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Stonework
Repair, replacement and making-good where existing stone needs to be protected, restored or carefully matched.
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Oak and traditional joinery
Structural and decorative timber work where the material, profile and finish need to feel right for the age and style of the property.
Why Tombs
Building work with the right people close to the detail
A high-quality build depends on more than the plans. Tombs brings together experienced site judgement, trusted local trades and close involvement from Dom and Iain, helping clients and architects across Cheltenham and the Cotswolds move from drawings to a finished home with confidence.
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Experienced oversight
Clients work directly with people who understand the decisions being made on site, from the early practical details through to the final finish.
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Trusted by architects and repeat clients
Much of Tombs work comes through recommendations, repeat clients and long-standing local relationships.
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Recognised Cheltenham projects
Tombs work has been recognised by the Cheltenham Civic Society, including awards for Best New Build.
Built around the quality of the home
The right builder should make a project feel considered from the first decisions through to the final finish. Tombs brings that level of care to homes where detail, proportion and long-term quality matter.
Testimonials
Trusted by clients who value the detail
For private residential projects, the standard of the finished work is only part of the measure. Clients also need clear judgement, careful communication and confidence that the detail is being protected throughout the build.
“Every decision felt properly considered. Tombs kept the work clear, carefully managed and true to the quality we wanted for the house.”
Homeowner, Cheltenham
Private residential building work
FAQs
Questions before a project starts
Choosing a builder for a residential project often comes with practical questions around scope, architects, timings and how decisions are managed. These answers give a clearer sense of how Tombs works before a first conversation.
Ask a questionYes. Tombs often works alongside architects and can be involved before work begins, helping to think through practical details, sequencing and decisions that may affect the build.
What else we do
Other ways Tombs can shape and improve a home
Heritage work protects and improves older properties. Tombs also builds new homes, creates extensions and renovates existing houses across Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds.
New-build homes
Complete builds shaped around the plans, materials and standards agreed at the start.
Extensions
Additions that connect with the existing home, practically and visually.
Renovations & refurbishments
Projects where layout, structure, materials and finish are handled with care.
Listed & period properties
Older homes where experience, judgement and respect for the building matter.