Around Ealing Spring 2017 | Page 25

PITZHANGER MANOR
view of the house as they arrive through the brick and flint archway – not seen since 1844 . Detailed scientific analysis was undertaken to find out what paint colours were used in which era . The experts took samples from one of the walls in Soane ’ s elaborate dining room and revealed all the layers from the present day back to the days of George Dance Junior who owned the property before Soane . In this careful , historical slicing , there is revealed a little section of each type of paint that was ever in the room over the years .
This kind of historical detail
The paint samples will be essential when the specialist decorators begin work on the site early next year to restore many rooms to their appearance in Soane ’ s heyday .
‘ CROWN JEWEL OF EALING ’ S HERITAGE ’ Councillor Julian Bell said : “ Pitzhanger Manor is the crown jewel of Ealing ’ s heritage and this important work will make it an accessible attraction to all as well as realising the building ’ s full
View from the rear of the building , looking at Walpole Park
historical impact by returning it to Soane ’ s original vision of a villa in a beautiful landscape .
“ It will help visitors to understand the significance of Soane ’ s legendary architectural style as well as bring the building back to life .
“ The team there is working very hard to make sure there will be lots of interactive information and a programme of activities to help everyone in our community enjoy the house , gallery and park .”
Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles , who chairs Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery Trust , said : “ We are excited to be breathing new life into this historic building – designed , built and lived in by one of Britain ’ s most influential architects . When it reopens in 2018 we look forward to welcoming back to this important arts venue both local audiences as well as lovers of art and architecture from across London , the UK and beyond .”
WHAT IS BEING DONE NEXT ? In addition to the work to conserve and repair the existing fabric of the manor house , Soane ’ s large glass conservatory , which became famous as an example of Soane ’ s innovative architectural design , will be recreated at the rear of the building overlooking the gardens . As will other original features such as Soane ’ s dramatic roof light and the entry hall with its striking amber lights and intricate painted decoration .
The gallery , built in 1939 , will be upgraded and reopened with a new ‘ Grade A ’, internationally recognised space that will enable Pitzhanger to host significant exhibitions and retain its position as west London ’ s premier gallery for contemporary art .
A lodge building , which is Grade II listed is also being restored . And a stylish new Garden Room café brasserie will be built in the manor ’ s walled kitchen garden .
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery , and the Garden Room , will reopen in summer 2018 . Visit www . pitzhanger . org . uk or email heritage @ ealing . gov . uk for more information .
Did you know ?
Between 1844 and 1900 the house was owned by Sir Spencer Walpole ( and his son ), who agreed to let his unmarried sisters in law , the Perceval sisters ( daughters of the former Prime Minister Spencer Perceval who was assassinated in the House of Commons in 1812 ) live there for life . It was then sold on to Ealing Council .
The dining room around ealing Spring 2017
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