The Canons House is a late 17th century mansion house that sits in parkland close to the centre of Mitcham in south-west London.  The Grade II* listed building, which has been owned by the local authority since 1939 but had fallen out of use.  It had been altered and extended to the point that much of the historic detail had become hidden or lost. 

As part of a National Lottery Parks for People funded project, Simpson & Brown were appointed to carry out comprehensive repairs and alterations to the house and restore its hidden or lost significance.  A new community space has been created in the basement and the upper floors have been converted into lettable office space for start-up businesses.

Our part of the project also included a new cafe, built against an existing sports hall next to the Canons House, and repairs to two Grade II listed structures in the park: a dovecote and an obelisk.  The new cafe faces on to a new courtyard adjacent to the house creating an outdoor space which will become the focus for the park and a venue for a programme of community-based activities.

The engagement of the local community was essential to the success of this project.  Simpson & Brown and Addyman Archaeology hosted presentations and exhibitions to explain the history and significance of the place, and to promote the council's proposals. We showed the history of the buildings in 3D models which we felt would be easier to understand than plans. The consultation gave us a better appreciation of the needs of the particular community in Mitcham and helped in the development of the design.  Community engagement continued throughout the construction phase with a community archaeology project and online talks.