Conservation & Gilding Restoration of Dado Rail, Architectural Joinery, and Pier Mirrors
Spetchley Park Manor - 2021.
Client / Site
Private Commission
Location: Spetchley Park Manor, Worcestershire, UK
Architectural Significance: Regency interiors originally designed by architect John Tasker, commissioned in 1811 by Robert Berkeley
Spetchley Park Manor - 2021.
Client / Site
Private Commission
Location: Spetchley Park Manor, Worcestershire, UK
Architectural Significance: Regency interiors originally designed by architect John Tasker, commissioned in 1811 by Robert Berkeley
Project Overview
This conservation project involved the meticulous restoration of gilded decorative elements within a historically significant interior.
The scope of work included:
- Restoration of a traditionally water-gilded dado rail moulding
- Conservation and partial reconstruction of two large Regency pier mirrors
- Cleaning and re-gilding of window shutters, surrounds, and door architraves
The scope of work included:
- Restoration of a traditionally water-gilded dado rail moulding
- Conservation and partial reconstruction of two large Regency pier mirrors
- Cleaning and re-gilding of window shutters, surrounds, and door architraves
Dado Rail Restoration
Assessment & Collection:
Upon visiting the site, the ornate mouldings were found to be broken and displaced. Each fragment was carefully numbered and documented before being removed for studio work, allowing for accurate reinstallation.
Upon visiting the site, the ornate mouldings were found to be broken and displaced. Each fragment was carefully numbered and documented before being removed for studio work, allowing for accurate reinstallation.
Cleaning & Sorting:
Fragments were cleaned of accumulated soot and old plaster using conservation-grade techniques. Priority was placed on retaining original material wherever possible.
Fragments were cleaned of accumulated soot and old plaster using conservation-grade techniques. Priority was placed on retaining original material wherever possible.
Reconstruction:
Missing elements were identified and replicated using gilder's composition (compo). Moulds were made for each feature, and new sections were cast, trimmed, and integrated with minimal intervention.
Missing elements were identified and replicated using gilder's composition (compo). Moulds were made for each feature, and new sections were cast, trimmed, and integrated with minimal intervention.
Gilding Finish:
Following traditional preparation with gesso, the pieces were water gilded in 23.5kt gold for high-lustre highlights, and oil gilded in secondary areas to match the original combination gilding technique. Reinstallation:
Restored and newly cast elements were returned to site and fitted with precision according to their original positioning.
Following traditional preparation with gesso, the pieces were water gilded in 23.5kt gold for high-lustre highlights, and oil gilded in secondary areas to match the original combination gilding technique. Reinstallation:
Restored and newly cast elements were returned to site and fitted with precision according to their original positioning.
Pier Mirrors Restoration
Scope:
Two bespoke Regency pier mirrors, approximately 4m tall by 1m wide, originally commissioned for the space.
Two bespoke Regency pier mirrors, approximately 4m tall by 1m wide, originally commissioned for the space.
Condition:
Covered in a heavy layer of soot from prolonged exposure to fireplace use.
Covered in a heavy layer of soot from prolonged exposure to fireplace use.
Treatment:
Cleaned using conservation-grade soap and rinsed to safely remove buildup without compromising the original finish
Consolidated any loose areas and carried out minor gilding touch-ups where necessary
Revealed significant visual improvement as documented in before-and-after photos
Joinery & Shutters
Elements Treated:
Interior and exterior window shutters, door surrounds, and trim detailing with gold accents.
Interior and exterior window shutters, door surrounds, and trim detailing with gold accents.
Restoration Process:
Surface consolidation and sanding of sun-damaged exterior shutters
Cleaning using conservation-grade methods
Re-gilding of feature trim with appropriate gilding techniques to match original intent
Outcome
This project was especially rewarding due to its setting among a team of highly skilled artisans, including traditional wallpaper and curtain makers. The opportunity to exchange knowledge and techniques within a historically sensitive context added immense value to the experience. This was a deeply satisfying and historically meaningful conservation project, blending traditional craftsmanship with careful restoration ethics. The result maintained the authenticity and elegance of Spetchley Park Manor’s Regency interiors.