The Grade I National Gallery was constructed at Parliament’s request to house the Nations art collection. This impressive classically styled stone building was constructed between 1832-1838 to the design of William Wilkins and commands a striking position on the North side of Trafalgar Square.

Paye were instructed as Principal Contractor to complete the restoration and repairs to this iconic building using a super heated steam (Doff) clean, a gentle aggregate (Torc) clean as well as a poultice clean (in selected areas to remove stubborn stains).  Our team of expert stone masons undertook stone repairs and pointing, including moulded and flat ashlar indents and some new stone bottles to the roof balustrade. Our talented masons also skilfully hand carved elements including the window scrolls (right).

New electrical service trays were installed at roof level to the rear of the stone balustrade, enabling the Gallery to tidy their existing service cable runs and provide future cable routes that do not interfere with the stone.

The repair programme also required our specialist team to refix and replace sections of lead including repairs to the main dome leadwork and the lightning tapes being refixed and tested. Further work to decorate the windows, rainwater pipes, grills and entrance portico soffit internally, and the historic challenge of the Trafalgar Square pigeons required the installation of a new subtle bird deterrent/pigeon wires system.