The installation of the new services trench is ongoing in the café and museum areas and the associated demolition has exposed historic damage caused by the work done in the 60’s to the original fabric. A recording exercise was undertaken and conservation and repair works are now being carried out on the damaged masonry. The demolition has also revealed an unexpected view of the internal spaces – of special interest is the magnificent set of timber trusses constructed with timber dismantled from the larger Wren’s Stables. Furthermore, layers of floral wallpaper have emerged on the stairs to the first floor having been buried under layers of more recently applied plaster, happy testimonies of the humble lives of hostlers and coachmen
The reconstruction of the Soane-designed chimneys on the West and South ranges has been completed and we are now for the unusual detail involving the code 10 lead pots to be sand cast.
Find out more about this project here