The Garrison Chapel

Heritage and Conservation, Leisure, Listed

Restoration and refurbishment of a Grade II listed chapel at Chelsea Barracks to form a gallery space to secure a long-term, viable future.

Client: Qatari Diar 
Location: Chelsea Barracks
Status: Complete 

Damaged building fabric was repaired and accessibility needs addressed to provide a cultural focal point for the development and a tangible link to the history of the 12.8 acre site. The chapel is used by The Prince’s Foundation to exhibit the work of the charity, its students and graduates.

The only remaining building from the original barracks of the 1800’s, the chapel is considered to be a good example of a mid 19th Century Romanesque-Byzantine style with Venetian Gothic elements. A new stepped entrance was formed to the north eastern porch. To provide full equal access for all, a discreet platform lift was install and the existing internal steps levelled.

Energy saving measures were introduced sympathetically with the historic fabric; these include new roof installation, secondary glazing to windows and renewal of services. Interiors were decorated in readiness for an operator to secure the space.

The works carried out highlight the unusually stylish building design with brick banding and stone decoration. During the works decorative glazed wall tiles panels matching the striking mosaic floor were discovered. Both were fully restored and their special significance enhanced.