all saints church
Project: Extensive refurbishment of an ancient church in Kingston Architect: Ptolemy Dean Architects |
Shortlisted for the RICS London Awards 2015 for Building Conservation
Situated in the heart of Kingston town centre, All Saints Church is an architectural symbol of Britain’s royal heritage. It sits upon the site of an ancient tenth century church where the first kings of England were crowned, and is where the city gets its name.
Dædalus Conservation was privileged to have been selected as the principal contractor for the project, working alongside renowned architect Ptolemy Dean, 19th Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey. It came about as the result of a refurbishment grant from the National Lottery and Viridor Credits, as well as overwhelming local support.
One of the primary aims was to ensure that the church remains the community hub that it was 1,000 years ago. Among the substantial improvements made were modern mechanical and electrical systems including underfloor heating, toilet and kitchen facilities. A choir vestry was renovated into an 'interpretation room' which will serve as an educational facility for the public and school groups.
Other works included an extensive joinery package, decorating to the ceiling and victorian tracery, plus gilding to the angels lining the nave. Essential leadwork repairs were made to the roof and solar panels added.
I have a little saying which says that everyone goes to heaven - sinners, non believers, people of differing faiths - everyone, that is except for builders. But I've had to change it. Because in Daedelus Conservation we could not have found a more courteous, helpful, committed, skilled bunch of builders anywhere else on the planet.
Rector Jonathan Wilkes