This month saw the new East Wing staircase erected. Only a few of the original stone steps survived in the basement, so these were made sound before being connected to new wooden steps, replacing the original stone staircase which would have continued up to the first floor.
In the new Reading Room the existing windows were raised in height and a steel weatherproof panel was inserted at floor level. This was necessary due to the installation of the underfloor heating which created a thicker floor which therefore would have interfered with the opening of the doors.
A very exciting update for our volunteer team was the installation of the new kitchen space, as this was to become their new break area, providing a welcome place to refresh and recharge after looking after our visitors.
The finishing touches were to include the counter top and doors which were installed later in the month.
Flooring was put down in the Activity and Learning Space. This room would be used for a whole host of activities including school groups, children’s crafts and adult art classes among others. The flooring is hardwearing, waterproof and easily cleaned so that it is fit for the purpose of the room.
New wooden doors, in keeping with the style of doors in the older part of the Castle, were fitted in the room which was to become the Owners’ Gallery. Below the door, you can see a glass flooring panel, which allows visitors to see the old flooring joists and foundations of the building. This room now forms part of the new visitor centre and tells the story of the many owners of the Castle.
As works drew to a close, the hoarding and Greendale site office were removed, and the area was returned to gravel and grass.
Below you can see some of the finished rooms which were completed with interpretation by designers Smith and Jones and audio visual elements created by Audionation, all installed with the help of Setworks who lead the fit out.
