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Museums & Galleries
Refurbishment
Ref:
A0730
Buxton delivered conservation, refurbishment and extension works at Watts Studios, part of the Mary Watts Studio at Limnerslease, a Grade II listed building within the Artists’ Village in Compton, Surrey. Limnerslease was built in 1891 as the home and studios of George Frederic Watts OM RA and his wife Mary Watts, designed in the Arts and Crafts style by Sir Ernest George. The house was created as a creative retreat and became central to the couple’s life and work.
The works included sensitive repair, refurbishment and extension, ensuring the historic character of Limnerslease was respected throughout. Careful attention was given to architectural detailing and craftsmanship to support its continued use as a gallery and studio space.
As part of the scheme, Buxton constructed a new extension to house a modern staircase, with the external appearance designed in a Tudor style to complement the historic setting. New M and E services and toilets were installed to modern standards, improving visitor comfort and accessibility.
The project also included installation of new windows. A key element of the scheme was the design and construction of bespoke framing for George Frederic Watts’ monumental painting ‘The Court of Death’. The frame was built to museum standards, enabling safe public display and long term conservation of this nationally important artwork.
Buxton also commissioned a skilled joiner to produce a bespoke exhibition table and a glass display case, providing high quality furniture for interpretation and exhibitions within the studio.
Throughout the contract, parts of the building including the central studios remained open to the public for tours, while the West Wing remained occupied. This required careful phasing and visitor management to maintain safe access at all times.
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