Restoring the glory
Trial and test
Conservators from Lancashire Conservation Studio trialled and tested different ways to restore the painted surfaces throughout the building. The walls and ceilings were covered in dirt and nicotine.
This wasn’t surprising as these rooms had often hosted events where visitors enjoyed a cigar and a drink. The challenge was to remove dirt and other deposits without causing more damage.
Conservators gently removed layers of deposits from the painted walls and ceiling in the Council Chamber. They removed dirt, but also coats of varnish that covered the paint.
In-depth testing was done to figure out the best methods and materials to use. The discoloured varnish was then removed with solvents and solvent gels. These were specifically formulated by the conservators so they wouldn’t damage the original decorative paint below.
Skilling up
Two groups of Town Hall volunteers took part in our Conservation Skills Courses. They worked alongside conservation experts to restore the decorative features in the Old Council Chamber and the Mayor’s Reception Room.
Our volunteers got started with classroom training sessions, where they learnt about the role of conservators and conservation actions in the heritage environment. They were also fully trained in how to work safely at height and with conservation materials.
With this training under their belts, they helped with cleaning and varnish removal from walls and ceilings, bringing the decoration back to life.
Perfect panelling
The wooden panelling here in the Council Chamber was scuffed and damaged before our conservation volunteers got to work. The decorative woodwork is known as ‘linenfold’ panelling because it is designed to look like folded linen fabric.
The conservation volunteers cleaned and prepared the surface of the wood and then retouched it with a light fast tint, shellac and artists’ pigments. The panelling was then treated with wax to give the beautiful finish that you can see today.
Look out for examples of the tools and materials that the conservators and volunteers used. They are on display in the Welcome Gallery.
