Antiques Roadshow Expert Converts Historic Chapel into Home and Workshop: A Preservation Project

Antiques Roadshow expert Wayne Colquhoun is on a mission to restore historic buildings, starting with a former chapel he purchased for just £60,000 in Corris, Wales. The 1868 structure, complete with an original pulpit and Bible, captured Wayne’s heart despite its derelict state.

The Grade II listed building, once a place of worship for a small congregation, was at risk of falling into disrepair or facing demolition before Wayne stepped in to save it. With many chapels across Wales facing similar fates, Wayne is urging others to preserve these pieces of history.

Transforming the upper gallery into a three-bed apartment and converting the lower level into his Antiques and Fine Art shop, Wayne is breathing new life into Capel Salem. He plans to maintain the building’s original features, from its arched windows to reusing the pews as kitchen work surfaces.

Wayne’s dedication to preserving history extends beyond his personal project, as he aims to employ locals and give back to the community through workshops and events at the chapel. His passion for restoration and expertise in historic buildings make him the perfect candidate to tackle this challenging project.

As chapel conversions become more common, Wayne is following guidelines from historic environment service Cadw to ensure the character of the building remains intact. With over 30 years of experience in the art world and a keen eye for detail, Wayne’s vision for Capel Salem is sure to be a success.

Wayne’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our historic buildings and the value of taking on challenging restoration projects. With his unique blend of expertise and passion, Wayne Colquhoun is leading the way in saving pieces of Wales’ rich heritage, one chapel at a time.