Image: The Russell-Cotes Conservatory (Eliza Naden Photography/Russell-Cotes)
Bournemouth museum completes extensive restoration of its historic Victorian glasshouse after securing MEND funding, ending years of leakage problems
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum in Bournemouth has announced the completion of a significant restoration project on its historic conservatory after years of battling persistent leaks.
The Victorian glasshouse, part of the Grade II* listed building, had deteriorated significantly due to its exposed seaside location, with museum staff previously forced to position buckets to catch rainwater. Following extensive restoration work, visitors can now experience the conservatory’s spectacular sea views regardless of weather conditions.
“Words cannot express how happy we are to finally be here,” said Sarah Newman, Manager at the Russell-Cotes. “The restoration of this extraordinary space serves as an emblem of the Russell-Cotes’ future potential. With the necessary investment, this magnificent and unique place will continue to flourish and inspire for generations to come. We eagerly anticipate what the future holds.”
The conservatory, added to the south elevation during the design stage of the Russell-Cotes’ home in 1898, provided the couple with a tranquil space to enjoy sea views and access their garden. After 120 years, the structure required urgent restoration to address storm damage and weathering.
Funding for the costly project came primarily from the Museum Estates and Development (MEND) Fund, delivered by Arts Council England and launched in 2021 following the Covid-19 pandemic. Additional financial support was provided by BCP Council, NFU Mutual and museum supporters.
Philip Hughes Associates led the design process, with local building firm BJM Ltd undertaking the year-long restoration work. The project involved completely removing all glass, timber and iron glazing bars and guttering for assessment, cleaning and redecoration, whilst simultaneously stabilising the structure which had begun to drop.
Paint analysis confirmed the conservatory’s original pink colour scheme with hints of peacock blue and mushroom grey, helping to restore it to the Russell-Cotes’ original vision. While conservators prioritised repairing and reusing original materials, many damaged components required replacement with bespoke, like-for-like parts, including specially manufactured fluted curved glass.
