The practice was started by Elisha Long in 2004 to undertake high quality conservation and contemporary design projects with a particular focus on materials conservation and traditional building techniques and practice.

Elisha Long is a architecture graduate of the University of Sydney. She was then awarded a Lethaby Scholarship by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) in 1991. The Scholarship is a travelling course of study within the United Kingdom consisting of site visits to building sites, conservation studios, manufacturers, quarries and discussions with a wide range of craftspeople and professionals. She then worked for leading conservation practice, Martin Stanclifffe Architects on major projects at St Paul’s Cathedral, London and Southwell Minster, Nottinghamshire. On her return to Australia in 1996 she worked for Design 5 architects on projects like Greycliffe House, Vaucluse and Atherfield, Darling Point. Since 2000, she has been employed by the NSW Heritage Office with a focus on providing practical conservation advice to the Heritage Council, building owners, and professionals.

Elisha was awarded a place on the 2009 ICCROM Stone Course in Venice, an intensive three month course taught by the some of the world’s leading experts in the conservation of building stone and monuments.

In 2009 the practice was joined by William Blackledge. William brings over 25 years of architectural and conservation experience to the practice.

William studied at the Welsh School of Architecture. After graduation he worked on the Grade 1 listed Paddington Station in London. Following completion of specialist conservation studies at the Architectural Association he was employed at Martin Stancliffe Architects working on several National Trust properties including projects in the World Heritage listed Studley Royal Gardens. He also worked on Country Houses, churches and St Pauls Cathedral. 

Following his arrival in Australia he worked firstly for Tanner Associates before moving to Design 5 Architects where he was closely involved in the repair and maintenance of several important places for example, Woodford Academy for the National Trust.

Prior to joining the practice William was employed as a senior member of the conservation team with Jackson Teece Architecture working principally on 20th century conservation projects.