Traditional buildings are more than just remnants of the past; they play a vital role in the history and fabric of our local communities. Here in Carmarthenshire, we have a rich tapestry of traditional buildings, from shops on our highstreets, community spaces, to home farms, like our very own Centre!
Cultural importance
Heritage buildings serve as physical links to our history. They remind us of our shared past and provide context for the present. By sustaining these structures, we keep alive the stories, traditions, and values of those who came before us, ensuring we stay connected to our heritage and roots!
Educational resources
Traditional buildings serve as invaluable educational tools. Schools and universities often use them to teach students about history, architecture, and cultural studies – passing on knowledge to future generations.
At the Tywi Centre, we not only host training sessions in our own Grade II listed building, but we also contribute to numerous educational projects and programmes. One notable example is the restoration of Hopwood Hall, as part of the Historic England Summer School. This project allowed experts, like us, to pass on essential and at-risk traditional heritage crafts to trainees from across the North of England, in a practical and engaging context.
Economic benefits
Restored traditional buildings can also boost local economies; attracting tourists, creating jobs, generating revenue for local businesses, and enhancing the authenticity of business storefronts.
In Carmarthenshire, our Town Centers proudly showcase local history, with many shopfronts being restored to their original charm. At the Tywi Centre, we are thrilled to contribute to this effort through our 'Shop Front Design' Guide and training session, which are tailored for shop owners, custodians, and developers, and complements the Carmarthenshire County Council revitalizing town centre grant programmes. . (Link to https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/business/funding/ )
Aesthetic value
The unique styles of traditional buildings add character and beauty to our cities and towns. They offer a visual diversity that modern architecture often lacks, enhancing the overall aesthetic of urban landscapes. Traditional structures can serve as landmarks, creating a sense of place and identity unique to counties or specific towns.
Sustainability
Preserving and repurposing traditional buildings is very sustainable! In a time where climate change is an important conversation, utilising traditional buildings reduces the need for new construction materials and minimises waste. Many of these buildings were designed with energy efficiency in mind too, making them environmentally friendly. Even by maintaining and upgrading existing structures on a local scale, we can reduce our carbon footprint and promote more sustainable development practices on a larger scale!
