Matthew Vaughan

2025 QEST Kirby Laing Foundation Emerging Maker - Conservation & Restoration, Carpentry and Glazing
Leeds, West Yorkshire

Matthew Vaughan is a specialist in the conservation and repair of historic timber features, and founder of his business Material Matters Studio. He focuses on the restoration and retrofitting of timber windows and doors, guided by a strong respect for the character and craft of historic buildings. Wherever possible he reuses or preserves historical hand drawn glass, valuing it as an important artefact within the fabric of a structure. 

With the support of QEST and his Emerging Maker Grant, Matthew is undertaking the Professional Development Diploma in Historic Building Conservation and Repair at West Dean College in Sussex, a programme recognised by Historic England. The course will cover the technical and practical skills needed for the repair and maintenance of historic buildings, and provides a deep understanding of materials, techniques and current conservation practice.  

These skills will expand the capabilities of Material Matters Studio and strengthen Matthew’s ambition to grow his team, pass on his own skills, support new trainees and contribute to the conservation of buildings with national, cultural and social importance. 

I’m overjoyed to receive the QEST Emerging Maker Grant. It’s a wonderful feeling for our passion in researching and practicing traditional building crafts to be seen and supported in its development. Expanding our field of expertise will enable us to approach conservation from a whole fabric approach and open avenues of commission for the studio previously outside of our ability.

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