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Karen Averby MA PCG Arch Hist (Oxon) CAIfA FRHistS Director/ Buildings Historian & Heritage Research Consultant

Karen has worked in the heritage sector since 1997, a unique career encompassing the fields of 

architecture, archives, and archaeology, with a strong emphasis upon research in all of these. She holds 

qualifications in Architectural History (PGC, Distinction), Archaeology (MA, Distinction) and History and 

Classical Studies (BA Hons).

 

Karen draws upon her experience of working in archives in the public sector (including the University of 

Birmingham and The National Archives) and extensive historical research and analysis expertise from 

working in private heritage practices, to apply to projects in the commercial heritage sector. Her 

expertise includes in-depth knowledge of the records and resources of national libraries and archives, 

county record offices, local history libraries and archives, specialist archives, as well as online resources, 

and she has extensive knowledge and experience of researching a wide range of sites and building types 

from all periods and geographical areas within the UK .

 

 

 

Professional memberships include the  Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC), Chartered 

Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain (SAHGB), and she is 

an elected Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. She sits on the Preservation Committee for the Art Deco 

Society UK and is the Society’s West Midlands Area Representative. Specialist research interests include 

seaside heritage and house histories. She is also a published author and regularly speaks on a variety of 

topics. See her website for more details.