Business Details
15 Years
experience
Your Trusted Structural Engineering Partner in Cornwall
Established in 2011, Richard Gowan Consulting brings extensive structural engineering expertise to Cornwall. Our practice specialises in both new build and refurbishment projects, with particular proficiency in sensitive restoration of historic structures. We prioritise collaboration with clients and design teams to deliver imaginative, buildable solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements. Our services extend to structural appraisals for existing buildings, providing clear assessments and remedial strategies.With a portfolio spanning residential, commercial, healthcare, and public realm sectors, we combine technical rigour with practical understanding of construction challenges. Our team's deep local knowledge ensures designs align with Cornwall's architectural heritage and environmental context. We maintain rigorous quality standards across all projects, from minor alterations to major developments, always focusing on programme certainty and budget compliance.
Services
Residential New Build
Historic Building Refurbishment
Structural Appraisals
Commercial Developments
Healthcare Projects
Public Realm Schemes
Education Buildings
Transport Infrastructure
Visual Appraisal Surveys
Residential Extensions
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We offer structural engineering expertise since 2011
- Our team specialises in historic building refurbishments
- We provide early-stage design advice for optimal outcomes
- We deliver structural appraisals with clear remedial strategies
- Our local knowledge ensures context-sensitive solutions
Services
Residential New Build
Designing modern residential structures that harmonise with Cornwall's landscape. Our approach combines technical innovation with practical buildability considerations. We work closely with architects and contractors to ensure efficient construction processes while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic requirements.
Historic Building Refurbishment
Specialist restoration of historic structures using traditional materials and techniques. We conduct detailed structural assessments to identify defects and develop sympathetic repair strategies. Our expertise preserves architectural heritage while ensuring modern functionality and safety standards.
Structural Appraisals
Comprehensive assessments of existing structures to identify structural defects. We provide detailed reports with remedial recommendations, often commissioned by chartered surveyors. Our evaluations consider building history, material performance, and environmental factors.
Commercial Developments
Structural engineering for commercial and public buildings including hotels and transport facilities. We address complex design challenges while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Our solutions prioritise adaptability for future use changes and compliance with accessibility standards.
Education Buildings
Designing safe, functional educational facilities that meet evolving pedagogical needs. We specialise in both new constructions and adaptations of existing buildings. Our approach ensures compliance with stringent safety regulations while creating inspiring learning environments.
People
Richard Gowan
Structural Engineer
Founder of the practice with over 20 years' experience in structural engineering. Specialises in historic building conservation and innovative new build designs. Holds a BEng in Civil Engineering and is a Chartered Member of ICE.
Patrick Mahon
Structural Engineer
Qualified structural engineer with expertise in complex refurbishment projects. Graduated from the University of Bath in 2012 with first-class honours. Specialises in computer-aided design and structural analysis of historic masonry structures.
Jack Double
Structural Engineer
Graduate engineer joining the team in 2022. Recent graduate from Exeter University with distinction in MEng Structural Engineering. Focus areas include sustainable construction materials and digital design tools.
Matt Taylor
Structural Engineer
Qualified engineer with specialist knowledge in residential construction. Graduated from Plymouth University in 2017. Experienced in both traditional and modern construction methods across Cornwall's diverse building stock.
Caroline Gill
AutoCAD Technician
Technical draughtsperson with 15 years' experience in architectural detailing. Joined the practice in 2019. Expert in producing detailed construction drawings for both new build and refurbishment projects using AutoCAD and Revit.
Questions
What structural engineering services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive structural engineering services including new build design, historic building refurbishment, structural appraisals, and technical calculations for residential, commercial, and public sector projects across Cornwall.
Do you specialise in historic building conservation?
Yes, we have particular expertise in assessing and repairing historic structures using traditional materials and techniques while ensuring modern safety standards are met.
How do you approach new residential developments?
We focus on creating buildable, cost-effective solutions that respect local architectural character. Our designs prioritise structural efficiency and long-term durability while meeting client aspirations.
What areas do you cover?
While based in St Just, Cornwall, we work across the county including St Ives, Truro, Newquay, and Bodmin. Our local knowledge ensures designs suit Cornwall's unique environmental and heritage context.
How do you handle structural defect assessments?
We conduct detailed inspections, produce condition reports with photographic evidence, and recommend appropriate remedial measures. Our reports are often commissioned by surveyors for property transactions.
Can you assist with commercial building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with commercial developments including hotels, transport facilities, and public buildings. Our expertise covers both new constructions and adaptive reuse of existing structures.
