The Wallace Collection

A small piece of stone falling from the front portico in 2017 initiated a review of the portico, followed by a review of the building’s entire exterior. With both the portico and facade deemed to have fallen into a state of significant disrepair, our brief included the full-scale conservation and restoration of the front facade; the rebuilding of the limestone portico to remove corroded metalwork; and repairs to offices affected by the extensive damage caused by movement and deterioration of historic extensions to Hertford House. 

To ensure the building’s resilience, we also introduced high-level leadwork and improved access and maintenance systems. 

Phased approach and collaboration

Due to budget constraints and the need to keep the museum open, works were delivered in six consecutive phases. This collaborative approach—coordinated with the client, DCMS, local authorities, contractors, and craftspeople—allowed progress with minimal disruption. 

Craftsmanship was central to the project’s success. The expertise of stonemasons, bricklayers, and decorators ensured not just restoration, but enhancement of Hertford House’s rich architectural detail. Strong working relationships across all teams helped shape consistent strategies and build momentum across phases. 

Lighting scheme

Despite occupying a prominent space in the heart of London’s West End, the rear of the building was not easily identifiable. With no obviously branded features or signage, visitors to the area often reported not knowing that the building housed the Wallace Collection. 

Our brief was to rectify this, by creating a new advertising and lighting scheme on the back of the building, giving it a strong sense of identity and highlighting its presence within the context of the area. This final phase of the restoration project was as meticulous as its predecessors, with a considerable length of time spent repairing and restoring the back of Hertford House. Originally constructed using an elegant tuckpointing method, the restored masonry of Hertford House is complemented and illuminated by the new lighting scheme.

It was imperative that as much care and consideration went into the design of the advertising banners as was given over the course of the rest of the project. Intricately designed bronze brackets are based on the fine, detailed metalwork on the front facade of the building. Created for the museum, the subtle banner fixings allow for regular changes to suit the museum’s programming without being visible to the naked eye.