Historic Buildings

St. Bartholomew's Church, Dorset - Owen Jones Wall Paintings Restoration

This project for St. Bartholomew's Church, Sutton Waldron, Dorset. It's purpose is the restoration and repair of the interior wall paintings and extending their awareness across all society. They were designed by Owen Jones - influential design theorist of the 19th century, seminal publisher of The Grammar of Ornament, interior designer of the 1851 Great Exhibition, pivotal creator of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Our polychromatic decorations are of major national importance. Originally completed in 1847, it is probably the only example of Jones' designs prior to their use in The Great Exhibition. It is also the last surviving example of a complete Jones' church interior. The work required, determined by an exhaustive evaluation process, consists of: Eliminating cause of damp in the west end of the church (tower area). Restoring decorations affected by the damp and elapsed time, Restoring ancillary paintwork affected by the damp and wear and tear.