Michiel Brouns

Michiel Brouns is a world-renowned expert in historic building envelope preservation and the leading authority on linseed oil paint—its history, production, and contemporary application. Originally from the Netherlands, Michiel began his career as a surveyor of historic buildings, developing a deep respect for traditional materials and conservation methods. In 2006, he relocated to the UK and founded Histoglass Ltd, a company specialising in insulating glazing solutions tailored for historic structures.

Building on this success and his passion for heritage materials, Michiel established Brouns & Co over a decade ago to revive the use of traditional linseed oil paint. Under his leadership, the company has become a trusted supplier to some of the world’s most significant restoration projects, including The Old War Office, Woburn Abbey, Chatsworth House, Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace, Mount Vernon, and Poplar Forest.

As a manufacturer, author, and educator, Michiel is deeply committed to sustainable building practices. His plant-based, plastic-free linseed paints are produced using time-honoured techniques, offering unrivalled breathability, durability, and environmental performance.

He has delivered more than 350 accredited CPD courses to architects and heritage professionals through RIBA and AIA programmes and is a frequent guest lecturer and speaker at international preservation events. His past engagements include presentations for RIBA-USA, RIBA-New York, AIA at the British Consulate in Boston, and historic window conferences throughout the UK and North America.

In May 2023, Michiel published Linseed Paint & Oil – A Practical Guide to Traditional Production and Application, a definitive reference for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether consulting on restoration projects, teaching conservation principles, or producing his traditional linseed oil paints, Michiel bridges the gap between heritage and modern sustainability, ensuring the preservation of historic buildings in both appearance and substance—for generations to come