Almshouses are often admired for their architecture and heritage, but few people get the opportunity to see them through the eyes of both a building expert and an artist.
Tim Richardson, one of The Almshouse Association’s Panel Consultants, undertakes quinquennial inspections of almshouses through his professional work. He is also a talented painter, and after sharing some of his artwork on LinkedIn, we asked Tim if he would be happy to share a selection with our members.
We are delighted that he agreed. Tim has chosen three almshouse buildings, each with its own story and personal connection.
Berkeley’s Hospital, Worcester
Tim says this local landmark caught his attention when he used to pass it every week on his way to college in Worcester. Although he never ventured beyond the front gates, he was always struck by how well the building had survived in its enclosed city-centre setting.
The chapel is the main focus of the building, with the almshouses flanking it in a more modest, traditional style.
Ford’s Hospital, Coventry
This building is particularly special to Tim, as he has the privilege of carrying out its quinquennial inspections as well as providing heritage advice.
Partly rebuilt following Second World War bombing, Ford’s Hospital was skilfully restored, to the extent that its wartime damage is barely apparent today.
Tim recalls an amusing conversation with a passer-by who commented that the building “used to be a hospital”. Tim explained that, in one sense, it still is – explaining the historic use of the word hospital for almshouses, which referred to a place of hospitality and care rather than medical treatment. The explanation, however, did not quite convince his bemused audience!
The Retail Trust
Tim visited The Retail Trust during an Almshouse Association Panel Consultants visit and was immediately struck by its grandeur, symmetry and striking Victorian Gothic architecture.
This painting imagines the building at night – although, as Tim admits, he had long since left before the sun went down! See top of this news article for the building by day.
He remembers being warmly welcomed by the trustees, who were clearly very proud of their impressive buildings.
Tim’s paintings offer a fascinating new perspective on these much-loved buildings, capturing not only their architectural character but also something of the stories, memories and personal connections that make almshouses so special.
Keep them coming Tim !
Paintings published by kind permission of Tim Richardson
posted 15 September 2026