Horticulture
& Heritage Development
Horticulture & Heritage Development
We are an agile team of industry professionals with decades of experience, specialising in heritage-environment management and future planning for the care of these spaces.
We also design and deliver Continuing Professional Development for industry professionals and early career professionals.
Our Approach to Heritage & Stewardship
Heritage & Stewardship
Bridging History and Modern Practice
Drawing on decades of experience with renowned UK heritage organisations—including the National Trust, English Heritage, and The Royal Parks, Muse combines deep expertise in gardens and estate landscapes, with the application of forward-thinking management approaches.
Using rigorous analysis of how they were designed and have developed, we identify how spaces can adapt to todays’ needs, translating that into practical, on-the-ground measurable operational success.
We provide the tools to analyse and adapt how the client manages complex conservation landscapes, to build a clear future-proof strategy that balances regulatory compliance, ecological resilience, and visitor engagement.
Technical Expertise
in Action
Planning & Conservation
Expert Guidance for Site Integrity
Our consultancy work is rooted nationally recognised expertise. We specialise in the development of Conservation Management Plans (CMPs) and significance assessments that stand up to the highest levels of scrutiny.
Whether navigating the complexities of restrictive covenants, providing expert heritage statements for planning applications, or advising on climate adaptation strategies, we offer the technical authority required to safeguard historic sites.
We work closely with private property owners, planners, and site managers to turn long-term preservation goals into manageable, everyday actions that ensure the longevity of our buildings, gardens, and natural landscapes.
Empowering the Next Generation
Next Generation
Workforce Development
We are committed to supporting the future of the people in our industry. Muse designs and delivers Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs that foster excellence in the next generation of heritage and horticulture professionals.
From mentoring early-career talent through university partnerships to leading industry-wide training on site interpretation and management, we are dedicated to strengthening the workforce that cares for our shared history.
By combining strategic operational advice with targeted educational initiatives, we help organisations build the capacity they need to thrive in a changing world
Professional Services
& Guidance
Heritage Planning & Conservation
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Conservation Management Plans (CMPs): Producing comprehensive, site-specific strategies
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Heritage Statements & Significance Assessments: Expert analysis to support planning applications
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Covenant & Policy Advice: Navigating statutory protections and restrictive covenants for landowners
Strategy & Management
Conservation Management Plans (CMPs): Producing comprehensive, site-specific strategies
Landscape characterisation: Identifying distinct areas within a park or estate, to simplify and aid best management, conservation and identify areas for development
Visitor management and interpretation: Assessing current experiences, identifying what is loved and what can bring new interest and opportunities for growth
Development & Training
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Skills based training in person and online, tailored to your organisation’s needs and aspirations
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We provide a ongoing relationship with your horticultural team for six months post training
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Personal support for owners and training for non-horticultural managers with responsibility for development and strategy of gardens and landscapes
Expert Team of Professionals
Emma McNamara
Expertise: Heritage garden management, climate change adaptation, and educational strategy
Background: Former senior consultant at the National Trust; Trustee for Parks for London; Fellow of the Landscape Institute. Expert in developing career pathways and workforce diversity.
Joanne Mirzoeff
Expertise: Heritage planning, covenants, and policy.
Background: Nearly two decades as a Covenants Officer for the National Trust. MSc with Distinction in Historic Building Conservation (Oxford Brookes). Expert in statutory protections and landscape design.
Patrick Swan
Expertise: Heritage landscape management, horticulture, and visitor engagement.
Background: 35+ years of experience as Head Gardener and Consultant. Specializes in garden management plans, climate resilience, and landscape interpretation for major heritage sites across the UK.
Rowena Willard-Wright
Expertise: Curation, interpretation, and heritage characterisation.
Background: 20+ years as a curator with English Heritage and the National Trust. Fellow of the Royal Society of Antiquaries. Specialist in high-quality curatorial standards and site identity.
Articles & Case Studies
