Through most of 2016 Hirst Conservation completed Architectural Paint Research, conservation of extant finishes and reinstatement of lost elements throughout the major state rooms of Delapré Abbey. We still can’t wait to see the spaces furnished and complete, but were delighted to visit Northampton recently and find the cafe open in the new orangery, and afternoon tea laid out in the billiard room.

Whilst more of the original decoration had survived in the billiard room than in the other state rooms, after fire, flood and abandonment they were in a perilous state. Hirst undertook stabilisation of the historic plaster as well as moulding and casting missing elements. Lincrusta wall panelling was consolidated and replicated where missing. Paint finishes and gilding were stabilised and colour matched where lost, including recreation of stencil patterns. The fabulous Voysey wallpaper was reproduced, with colours matched from scraps hidden under mouldings.

Our enormous congratulations to absolutely everybody involved in both these rooms and the wider project; we look forward to sharing a lot more of the progress images once the other rooms are open to the public. Works were undertaken for Robert Woodhead Ltd under project architects Purcell. For more information about the history of the Abbey, the restoration project and visiting this wonderful building and park see the Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust website www.delapreabbey.org

Exterior of South facade and new orangery

Billiard Room ready for afternoon tea

Billiard Room before Conservation

Part of ceiling and north wall

Digital impression of scheme extracted from Architectural paint research report

Consolidation of lincrusta with temporary facing in place

Wallpaper proof against remaining traces and restored ceiling colours