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10 mins with Dave Allen: Preserving craft and traditional skills in stone construction

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We recently sat down with Dave Allen, a long-standing member of the Vobster Architectural team, to discuss his impressive two-decade long career, the skill behind cast stone manufacturing, and why traditional masonry techniques still matter in today’s construction industry.

Hi Dave, thanks for talking to us today. Can you tell me what your role is at Vobster Architectural?

I’m a semi-dry stone caster and concrete operative. I work on both semi-dry and wet cast processes to produce high-quality architectural stonework.

How long have you worked at Vobster?

I’ve been here for 22 years believe it or not.

That’s quite the career! What does your day-to-day work involve?

Every day is different, which means it’s never dull. I produce a variety of cast stone components including heads, cills, mullions, corbels - sometimes 20-30 pieces per mould.

I primarily work with semi-dry, for which the process involves precise mixing, colouring and hand-ramming. Knowing exactly how much to ram, and when, is where experience and craftsmanship really matter, and that’s something you only get better at with time.

I see. So, how has your role evolved over the last 22 years to get you to where you are today?

I started on manual mixers before moving to block machines and then into skilled casting. Over the years I’ve learned to handle everything from simple blocks to highly bespoke, technical moulds, which require a much higher level of experience. I still learn something new every day!

And how exactly did you get into the cast stone and masonry industry?

I originally worked in engineering, but after being laid off a contact recommended that Vobster were hiring. It turned out to be a great career move as I’m still here today and the engineering firm has long since closed. I’m privileged to have enjoyed a long-term career in a strong, resilient industry that depends on fine craftsmanship and skilled stone production.

You mentioned the concept of craftsmanship. What does craftsmanship mean to you?

People often think cast stone is simple, but there’s a lot of technique involved. Craftsmanship means honing skills over many years to make a product that I’d be proud to have in my own home - a ‘that’ll do’ attitude isn’t an option. I find seeing a completed building and knowing that I made those stones incredibly rewarding, and I think you need this sort of pride in your work to be a successful craftsperson.

Absolutely. Do you think it’s important to preserve these traditional masonry skills and techniques for future generations?

Definitely. I’ve trained others, including team members now in management. We work collaboratively, and I’m always happy to pass on skills to the right candidate. Without sharing knowledge, traditional cast stone skills would fade and that would be a travesty for the construction industry.

Can you tell me more about why traditional skills like yours are so important for modern construction?

The construction industry relies on skilled stone manufacturing, and quality is everything. Our long-standing clients return because we consistently produce high-standard cast stone. Much of our work serves London, heritage sites and conservation areas, where authentic, traditionally finished stone is essential.

In cast stone manufacturing you simply can’t send out poor-quality work. Our reputation, and six decades in business, comes from maintaining high standards across every project.

Thank you for your time Dave, it’s been fascinating to dive deeper into the value of traditional masonry techniques and the importance of preserving these skills for posterity. 

To find out more about the cast stone processes at Vobster Architectural, click here.