Project Background
Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Mecklenburg Square forms part of a historic Georgian terrace dating back to the early 19th century (circa 1804–1809). The area is recognised for its period architecture, traditional garden setting, and cultural significance within London.Properties within the square retain original features such as ornate cornices, sash windows, and traditional staircases—requiring a considered and sensitive approach during any period property renovation.This project involved a full internal period property renovation, combining high-end modern finishes with the careful preservation and restoration of original architectural details.
Works were carried out in close collaboration with architect Daphne Becket, ensuring the period property renovation aligned with both the design intent and heritage considerations.Due to the level of detail involved, the project was completed by a single specialist operative, maintaining full control over quality, consistency, and finish throughout.
Programme & Conditions
Duration: 3–4 months
Operative: Single decorator (specialist restoration focus)
Occupancy:
- Vacant during initial phases
- Occupied during final stages
Architect Collaboration
A key aspect of this period property renovation was ongoing collaboration with the project architect, including:
- Regular site meetings
- Real-time design adjustments
- Input on colour selection and finishes
One example included matching radiator finishes precisely to wall colours. A specialist system was developed to achieve this without affecting performance, ensuring a seamless and consistent finish throughout the property.
Scope of Works
- Full internal decoration
- Cornice restoration and repair
- Ames taping to new partitions
- Restoration of original doors
- Sash window restoration
- Spray finishing to ceilings
- High gloss front door finish
Key Challenges
A significant element of the period property renovation involved rectifying poor workmanship from previous trades, including:
- Defective mitres
- Visible adhesives and mastic
- Poor joinery detailing
- Incorrect cornice installation
- Misaligned and poorly cut doors
All surfaces were carefully corrected prior to finishing, ensuring a consistent and high-quality result throughout.
Cornices required extensive restoration due to:
- Hairline cracking
- Missing or failed sections
- Inadequate previous repairs
Sash Window Restoration
The original sash windows were fully restored using specialist repair systems as part of the wider period property renovation.
Process included:
- Partial stripping back to bare timber
- Dustless sanding
- Epoxy resin repairs (Repair Care system – Level 2 certified)
A durable water-based coating system (3–4 coats) was applied, restoring the windows to a “like new” condition while maintaining suitability for long-term use.
Surface Preparation
All preparation works were carried out using dustless sanding systems, a key part of achieving a high standard in any period property renovation:
- Clean working environment
- Minimal airborne dust
- Superior surface preparation
Ceiling Finishes
All ceilings were spray finished using an HVLP system, allowing for:
- Even, consistent coverage
- Enhanced definition of cornice detailing
Finish: Johnstone's Perfect Matt
Wall Finishes & Colour Specification
Walls were finished using premium coatings specified as part of the period property renovation, including:
Farrow & Ball (Dead Flat):
- Calluna
- Lichen
- Oval Room Blue
- All White
- Slipper Satin
- Borrowed Light
Paint & Paper Library:
- Senchen
- Afghan Tan
Low VOC materials were used throughout, aligning with both company standards and architectural requirements.
Woodwork Finishing
All woodwork was completed using a high-performance water-based system:
- Johnstone's AquaGuard Primer / Undercoat
- Johnstone's Durable Satin
Each surface received:
- 3–4 coats
- Sanding between coats up to 400 grit
This approach ensures a refined finish, consistent sheen, and durability appropriate for a high-end period property renovation.
Front Door Finish
The front entrance door was finished in a high gloss system, creating strong visual impact and enhancing the property's kerb appeal in keeping with the character of the building.
Outcome
This period property renovation demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship, technical knowledge, and attention to detail within a heritage setting.
Through thorough preparation, specialist repair techniques, and close collaboration with the architect, the property has been brought to a consistently high standard throughout.
Project Media
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