I work for English Heritage as an Architectural Illustrator and Digital (3D) Reconstruction Artist. My home is near Edinburgh in Scotland, but I work on projects remotely and enjoy making the occasional trip south of the Border to visit our many heritage sites. Before joining English Heritage in 2022, I was a freelance artist, creating Historical Reconstructions for clients across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. My Portfolio contains many of my projects and commissions.
My interest in heritage visualisation began in 2008 when I had the opportunity to utilise some of my digital 3D skills on several heritage projects. I quickly developed a passion for the work which led to enjoyable relationships with Historic Environment Scotland, English Heritage, Historic Royal Palaces, The Royal Collection Trust, and many other great clients.
My detailed reconstructions are developed by carefully analysing the information from measured survey drawings, laser survey data, GIS, landscape (height and contour data), archaeological reports, historical building records, and historical images and engravings. Many of the heritage sites I reconstruct are complex and fragmented structures - all present different challenges to interpret visually. The process typically consumes several months of effort, dedication, and careful planning. I work closely with Architectural Historians, Cultural Advisors, and Archaeologists whose knowledge and guidance help my reconstructions achieve higher levels of accuracy and realism. Where there is little or no surviving evidence, I have to rely on some informed guesswork and offer an artistic impression that suggests how a site may have once looked.
Digital 3D models provide a versatile way to present my reconstructions innovatively and engagingly. I use models to show a building's chronological development, produce complex cutaway drawings, show them from different viewpoints, create animations, and produce Virtual and Augmented Reality experiences.
When I am not busy creating illustrations, I'm usually out exploring the countryside and visiting heritage sites for inspiration. I love spending time in the great outdoors - often in all weathers! I am a member of the Society of Architectural Illustrators, and the Scottish Castles Association.
I occasionally post news and updates to my LinkedIn account, and less frequently on my Facebook page, so please give me a follow!
Contact me by email.
"I had the good fortune to work with Bob on the reconstructions of Orford Castle. He combines excellent skills as an artist with valuable knowledge of historic buildings and impeccable communication skills. It’s a delight to watch his illustrations evolve draft by draft and Bob’s style gives his work a feeling of authenticity. He is adept at both exteriors and interiors, with an excellent appreciation of composition and the use of light. Not only does Bob produce outstanding reconstructions but the process from start to finish is smooth and clearly articulated."
Richard Nevell. Properties Historian, English Heritage
