R & M WILLIAMS LTD
After more than 50 years in business, being named the 2025 Master Builder of the year marks a significant milestone
for R & M Williams Ltd THE PALACE
have represented Wales at the National UK Awards and won,” Osborne says. “We’re pleased for Swansea Council, who put their faith in us to deliver a project with so many challenges.” The benefits extend beyond reputation. “Our in-house trades gained valuable experience from this unique project,” Williams adds. “Wales has many old buildings earmarked for restoration and repurposing, which provides us with opportunities to build on what we achieved at the Palace.” Looking to the next Master Builder Awards, Williams and Osborne encourage members to enter. “The competition is strong, but let others know about a project you’re proud of. There’s nothing to lose and a lot to gain,” Williams argues. Osborne says the win has given a “real spring in everyone’s step” and the true weight of the achievement is just starting to sink in. Undoubtedly, holding the keys to a new Isuzu D-Max Utah pick-up truck as the winning prize will add to the excitement – Williams and Osborne just need to decide who on the team gets to drive it first.
rebuilt from scratch in situ using highly trained artisans. The timber, stone and lead detailing is exceptional, even though much of it can’t be seen from the ground.” The key, Williams maintains, is care. “Expressing the best of the building’s architecture was key. The beautifully restored stage house arch is testament to that, with new plasterwork petals handmade to match the original aesthetic. The external restoration brought out the best in the stone and brick façade without losing the character of a building weathered over 130 years. “When the scaffolding finally came down, we realised how fantastic the building looked. It was quite a moment.” Winning the awards has given the business valuable momentum. “We’re proud to
respond to challenges.” These included stabilising the building and making it safe to restore. Then there was the flooded basement and walls being supported with temporary prop, which restricted access. But the team pressed on. Doing what’s required “As inaccessible parts of the building such as the well, internal staircase, and orchestra pit became accessible, it gave us a deeper understanding of the work required,” Osborne says. “That led to hundreds of requests for information and design updates, constant reprogramming, and shuffling of resources. “It became normal to be working out-of-sequence on all levels at the same time. For long periods, we had 20 different trades working in the building.” One of the standout elements was the design and installation of a new lift shaft, running from the basement to the top floor. “It involved over 40 tonnes of steel and very limited access to install,” Osborne notes. “The detailing of the new roof, towers and rotunda was also intricate. Everything was
Master Builder of the Year R & M Williams Ltd is the
owner of a new Isuzu pick-up truck from awards sponsor Isuzu
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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