First impressions, fundamental impressions

Preserving and maintaining an appropriate decorating scheme at St Werbugh’s Church, Derby

St Werburgh’s Church is of Saxon origin with many later alterations. Over the centuries it has been subject to numerous redecorations.

The latest scheme was dirty and unsympathetic to the architecture, therefore, in 2000, we decided to redecorate.

 

Research

Due to the age complexities - the chancel was rebuilt in 1708; the north aisle was added in 1850 and the nave was demolished in favour of Blomfield’s 1894 version - we appointed an historic building consultant to undertake an archaeological and architectural analysis, looking particularly for any written evidence of earlier decorative schemes. Unfortunately nothing was found.

Paint analysis on site then followed, which revealed many layers of different types of paint – up to seven in some places.

Principles

Our dilemma was to then put forward a new scheme that took account of the various changes over time and sympathised with the varying architectural styles - one that would highlight the important features of the church, unify the elements and act as a good base for existing gilding.

After careful consideration, we decided to decorate the walls in buff, with the ceilings painted in off white.

It is our hope that any redecorating we do will help to display the church’s architecture while adding to the beauty and eloquence of the building.

Project team

CCT Conservation manager: Sarah Robinson (now Director of Conservation)
Contractor: Michael Reardon & Associates

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