£3m restoration of historic art gallery complete
CLAN Contracting has completed a large scale restoration to transform the South End of the historic Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight village conservation area, Wirral.
The works, overseen by architects Purcell, have been carried out under two phases across an eight-month programme, transforming some 5,300sq ft of gallery space at a cost of nearly £3m.
The South End galleries have been returned to their original architectural design following a series of structural works including opening up original doorways to reveal key thoroughfares and improve circulation, revealing the original double-height spaces with barrel vaulted ceilings and the addition of new architectural lighting to highlight original features, including the South End glass dome.
Other works include the installation of new glazed doors providing picturesque views of the village and installation of original parquet flooring.
Redecoration of the spaces in sympathetic period colours, repairing original elaborate plasterwork and extensive exterior cleaning of the building completed the programme of works.
The programme has essentially reversed the decorative works carried out in the 1960s, reinstating the original features and intended circulation routes of the gallery. Externally, a full facade cleaning and stone repair programme will help sustain the gallery’s long term durability.
Built during 1914-22, the Lady Lever Art Gallery has listed building status therefore requiring sympathetic repairs, using traditional materials and methods in order to maintain the vulnerable stone sections of the building which can be prone to damage.
Each of the rooms and individual areas has required a bespoke programme to restore the space to its former glory. Unique and innovative solutions have been developed to address repairs and reinstatement using local suppliers and specialists.
Clan Contracting managing director Damian Meyers said: “This has been a wonderful project to be involved in and the entire team has had a real sense of pride at being involved in a project that has had such a huge impact.
“The South End galleries have been reinstated to their original design and layout and are incredibly bright, airy and stunning spaces in which to house some of the gallery’s most treasured pieces of art.”
The Lady Lever Art Gallery houses one of the UK’s greatest collections of fine and decorative art.
Chris Bailey, director of Estate Management at National Museums Liverpool, said: “We have enjoyed working with Clan on this project; from day one Damian and his team absorbed the importance of this magnificent building, situated in one of the most unique settings in the country.
“Working closely with our architects Purcell, Clan sourced and blended highly skilled restoration specialisms with the installation of 21st Century technologies to create visually rich spaces, with access to the most up-to-date information platforms.”
Victoria Alderton, associate at Purcell, added: “The works carried out by Clan have reintroduced the sense of space and volume in the galleries, which will reconnect the architecture of the gallery with its nationally significant collections.
“The team have worked exceptionally hard to deliver the highest level of quality and finish and we look forward to seeing the objects in their new setting.”
The new South End galleries will re-open in spring 2016. The rest of the gallery remains open to visitors.
Clan works closely with English Heritage and other conservation specialists to maintain their reputation as listed building renovation specialists, having already completed work on the Bluecoat Chambers, Wapping Quays, Mermaid House, National Museums Liverpool’s Pilotage building and the Albert Dock Quayside repairs.
