Introducing our Private Practice Series, where we will be getting to know fellow private practitioners via a short question and answer session.
To kick us off, we’re starting with Nic Boyes who is our current Chair, and is an enthusiastic and inspirational advocate for conservators working in private practice.
Name: Nic Boyes
Specialism: Stone
Employment status: Employer
Business Name: Nic Boyes Ltd
Location: Edinburgh
Premises: Yes
What inspired you to work in cultural heritage and conservation?
Conservation found me as an Humanities graduate seeking a vocational conclusion to my studies. I found a small advertisement at the back of Stone Industries magazine to train in Architectural Stone Conservation at Weymouth College and I have never looked back.
How long have you been in private practice?
27 Years
What have you enjoyed most about being in private practice, what keeps you in it?
Being free and collaborative.
What’s your favourite non-conservation skill in your toolkit?
Client expectation management.
What do you think emerging conservators need to know before starting in private practice?
I think emerging conservators need to know who their market is and have confidence in their abilities.
What do you think is key to making private practice more accessible and attractive as a career choice in conservation?
Educators must focus on business skills
Where has been the most unusual place you’ve undertaken conservation?
10m down the inside of a 3000 year old well in South West Saudi Arabia
What do you listen to whilst working?
Radio 3
Tell us about a favourite project of yours
Rosslyn Chapel Conservation & Access Project 2009 - 2013. This was a three year project where I designed the conservation treatments, access and site set-up - so taking the project from design to implementation. I employed 20 staff to undertake the work. The project attracted attention from the BBC and a documentary called “A Treasure in Stone’ was created. It was not focused on our conservation work though we did feature throughout the documentary.
Hima Wells Conservation Project September - December 2025. This was a three month project where I designed the conservation treatments, access and site set-up - taking the project from design to implementation. I employed 5 staff to undertake the work.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given or would give to others?
‘You are only as good as your last project’.