Restoration Stories: Patina and Paint in Old London Houses

Old London domestic interiors are celebrated for their timeless beauty, with old pine panelling, worn wooden boards, and sunlight shafting through open doors. These houses, mostly Grade II-listed, have been lived in and loved for centuries, with their owners embracing the bone-curdling cold of winter and finding poetic harmony with modern furnishings. The passage of time has imbued these interiors with an unforgettable patina, making them truly extraordinary.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2019
Publisher: Pimpernel Press Ltd

Old London domestic interiors are a testament to the passage of time, with their aged pine panelling, flaking paint, and weathered wooden boards. Sunlight filters through open doors, casting a soft glow on the unevenly flagged yard where remnants of bygone eras can be found, such as clay pipes, Thames oyster shells, and pottery shards. The interiors are adorned with a captivating mix of blue-and-white export ware, mahogany, worn silver, and intriguing tricorn hat boxes and fragments of Spitalfields silk. Portraits of former residents hang on the walls, capturing their essence and raising questions about their lives and the enduring nature of these houses. It's remarkable to think that these dwellings, constructed over 250 years ago, still stand today, their patina a testament to the passage of time. These extraordinary homes, once ordinary terrace houses, have been transformed and cherished by their owners. Many of them are Grade II-listed, and their owners embrace the challenges of living in these historic spaces, repairing and maintaining them with love and care. Despite the cold winters and the gaps that let in the elements, these owners have not shied away from the charm and character of these homes. Instead, they have embraced it, finding poetic harmony between the centuries. Within these homes, a blend of modern furnishings coexists with the timeless antiques, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of these historic spaces and the ability of people to connect with the past while embracing the present.

Weight: 1382g
Dimension: 279 x 252 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910258415