Royal Observatory Greenwich, London

Ventrolla completed specialist timber window restoration at the Royal Observatory Greenwich as part of a wider programme of building restoration led by main contractor Willmott Dixon Interiors.

Home to Greenwich Mean Time and the historic Prime Meridian, the Observatory has played a central role in the measurement of time and space since its founding in 1675. Preserving the character of its buildings called for a considered approach to their historic windows.

The project involved around 80 original windows, ranging from sash and casement designs of varying sizes to distinctive circular oriel windows on the turrets. The priority was to restore the existing windows wherever possible, retaining the craftsmanship and architectural details that contribute to the building’s character.

A restoration-first approach

A restoration-first approach enabled the team to retain almost all of the existing windows. Out of 80, only one window was considered beyond repair and was replaced like-for-like, preserving the appearance and character of the original design.

The variety of window sizes and styles required specialist care, particularly around the distinctive turret windows. Each formed part of the wider architectural character that the restoration sought to preserve.

Working within a complex programme also required close coordination with Willmott Dixon Interiors and the other contractors on site. Careful planning helped the window works progress efficiently alongside the wider restoration of the historic building.

Original craftsmanship retained

The window restoration formed part of a wider, complex programme of works at the Observatory. Close coordination with Willmott Dixon Interiors and other contractors was essential to keep the window works progressing efficiently.

Careful planning allowed Ventrolla’s team to work alongside the other trades involved in restoring the historic building.

Mark Flanagan, Managing Director of Ventrolla, said:

“Being part of restoring a building like the Royal Observatory is a fantastic opportunity for the Ventrolla team. With around 80 windows needing work, this was a substantial project, and working closely with Willmott Dixon Interiors, careful planning and efficiency were essential to keep the works progressing alongside the wider restoration. Thankfully, there was perhaps no better place to make sure we stayed on time than the home of Greenwich Mean Time! Projects like this showcase the value of specialist window restoration, particularly for a building where the windows have such a rich history.”

Working with Willmott Dixon Interiors

With around 80 original windows restored and just one requiring like-for-like replacement, the project demonstrates how much historic joinery can be retained through specialist timber window restoration.

The completed works preserved the Observatory’s varied window designs and the original craftsmanship that contributes to its architectural character.

Craig Bromley, Senior Project Manager at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said:

“Working with Ventrolla on this project has been a pleasure. The team’s expertise and careful approach meant that they were able to restore all but one of the Observatory’s original windows, preserving as much of the building’s historic character as possible. It’s fantastic to see these important features given a new lease of life, while retaining the history and craftsmanship that make the Observatory so special.”

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