to produce a booklet on caring for historic buildings.

An expert from the UK, Tony Short, is in Bermuda to assist in the creation of an informative illustrated guide to help homeowners and builders understand, care for, and restore historic properties.

Mr. Short's architectural practice in the UK specialises in the preservation of old buildings. He has been on the Island since March and has spent his time visiting old homes and talking with their owners, meeting with members of the Institute of Architects, and studying and sketching the details of Bermuda's architecture.

He said Bermuda's homes are unique in that the entire home is painted and in the traditional design- high tray ceilings, thin external walls, wide tapering fireplaces and chimneys as well as an economical roof structure.

In addition the siting of Bermuda homes is distinctive.

Mr. Short explained: "In other places houses had to be located near a well or public water supply. Here they have been scattered everywhere.'' Mr. Short added that there has been a great deal of good research done in investigating and preserving the Island's built heritage, particularly in the recording and plotting of houses on the 1898 Savage maps. Mr. Short's findings will be published in the coming months.

Looking in: Architect Tony Short inspects a chimney at one of Bermuda's listed properties. Mr. Short is in Bermuda to help the Bermuda National Trust and the Department of Planning produce a booklet on caring for historic buildings.

PLANNING PLN NATIONAL TRUST ENV