Restoring Elegance: A Remarkable Drawing Room Refurbishment

Assembling the Dream Team

We began by assembling our trusted team of tradespeople, each bringing their unique expertise to the table. The collaboration included:

• A B Plumbing & Heating for the installation of traditional cast iron radiators.
• Pat Walsh for the intricate installation of the ornate plaster cornice.
• JMc Home Improvements IOW for top-notch plastering work.
• Patrick Kelly of PJ Carpentry and Joinery, a legend in his field, for the bespoke panelling, carpentry, and installation of a reclaimed oak wooden floor.
• APT Painting and Decorating for the impeccable finishing touches.

The Restoration Process

The first step was to tackle the ceiling, which involved removing the old, damaged lathe and plaster. Working with Pat Kelly, we installed new plasterboard ceilings and an ornate plaster cornice that perfectly matched the room's historical style. Pat also fabricated and installed bespoke panelling and skirting around the drawing room's perimeter to the client's exact specifications. Additionally, he refurbished three sets of existing bay doors and shutters, bringing them back to their original splendor.

Expert Plastering by JMc Home Improvements IOW

A critical component of the restoration was the plastering work performed by JMc Home Improvements IOW. Their expertise was evident as they meticulously applied a smooth, durable plaster finish to the new ceilings and walls. This step was essential in preparing the surfaces for painting and ensuring the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the room. The skill and attention to detail demonstrated by JMc Home Improvements IOW were instrumental in achieving the seamless, polished look of the finished drawing room.

Installing a Reclaimed Oak Wooden Floor

Adding to the room's charm and historical integrity, Patrick Kelly of PJ Carpentry and Joinery installed a beautiful reclaimed oak wooden floor. This choice of flooring not only enhanced the room's elegance but also provided a sustainable option, repurposing wood with a rich history of its own. Patrick's expertise ensured that each plank was expertly laid, creating a stunning, cohesive floor that perfectly complemented the room's classic design.

Heating and Plumbing Excellence

To enhance the room's grandeur, AB Plumbing and Heating installed new central heating, including traditional cast iron radiators. These elements not only added to the room's aesthetic appeal but also provided modern comfort while maintaining a classic look.

Electrical Upgrades with a Historical Touch

Our team of Jeelek electricians undertook the complete rewiring of the space, installing new power and lighting circuits. In keeping with the room's traditional character, we installed low-level 5-amp sockets for stand-up lamps. Interestingly, these plugs, originally described as Tripins in a 1911 book about A. P. Lundberg & Sons' electrical products, have a pin configuration virtually identical to the more modern BS 546 plugs we used. This attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the room respected its historical roots.

A Team Effort to Be Proud Of

This project was a labor of love for our team, and we are incredibly proud of the results. It’s always rewarding to see a room transformed from a distressed, worn state into a haven of classic elegance. Our client was overjoyed to see their drawing room restored to its former glory, a testament to the dedication and skill of everyone involved.

Project Management Excellence

A project of this magnitude requires experienced craftsmen and careful planning to ensure every trade can perform their work at the right time. Keith Coleman of Jeelek expertly managed this project, ensuring it was completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standards.

The Finished Masterpiece

The pictures accompanying this article tell the story of our progress, showcasing the transformation from a neglected space to a beautifully restored drawing room. This project exemplifies our commitment to excellence and our ability to manage complex, multi-skill projects seamlessly.

Contact us today to see how we can help bring your vision to life.

At Jeelek, we have the contacts and experience to get the right people on the job, ensuring your project is completed to the highest standards. Whether it's a simple electrical installation or a comprehensive refurbishment, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional results.

Our team:

A B Plumbing & Heating

Pat Walsh

JMc Home Improvements IOW

Patrick Kelly of PJ Carpentry and Joinery - pjckelly@gmail.com

APT Painting and Decorating