Case Study: Transforming Bignold House

Bignold House, located on Surrey Street in Norwich, became part of insurance giants Aviva (formerly Norwich Union) in 1819. Designed by John Sloane, this Grade II listed building, completed in 1764, originally served as a manor house. Unfortunately, it was left empty in 2014, leading to significant deterioration. In 2021, Bignold House was granted planning permission for a major transformation into 12 apartments, a penthouse apartment, and a three-story townhouse. Coastal Construction was appointed as the main contractor, and we were selected as the decorating contractor. The challenge was to restore the building’s historical features while updating it to modern standards, all within a tight timeframe of 18 months.

Goals/Objectives:

The primary objective was to preserve and restore the historical elements of Bignold House, such as the original chandeliers and sash windows, while seamlessly blending these with contemporary design elements. The interior designer chose a Farrow and Ball color palette, including Strong White, Ammonite, Pointing, Cromarty, School House White, and Shadow White, to complement the historic architecture. We aimed to use these colors effectively to enhance the building's heritage and provide a cohesive, elegant look throughout.

Approach/Solution:

Our approach involved meticulous planning and execution to ensure the preservation of Bignold House’s original features while incorporating modern aesthetics. Here’s how we tackled the project:

1. Restoration: We carefully restored original features, including chandeliers in the old boardroom and approximately 70 sash windows. This process involved delicate cleaning, repairing, and repainting to bring these elements back to life.
2. Color Palette Implementation: Using the selected Farrow and Ball colors, we ensured that each room was painted to highlight the building’s architectural beauty. The colors were chosen to create a light, airy atmosphere that respects the building’s history while providing a fresh, modern feel.
3. Surface Preparation and Painting: We used Dulux Trade paint for its durability and quality, ensuring a long-lasting finish. Extensive surface preparation was carried out to achieve a flawless base for painting, crucial for a project of this nature.
4. Blending Old and New: We worked closely with the interior designer to blend historical features with new design elements. This included integrating modern fixtures and fittings in a way that complemented the building's original architecture.

Results/Outcomes:

The transformation of Bignold House was completed within the 18-month timeframe, resulting in a stunning blend of historical charm and modern elegance. Key outcomes included:

• Restored Historical Features: The original chandeliers and sash windows were successfully restored, enhancing the building’s historical integrity.
• Cohesive Aesthetic: The use of the Farrow and Ball color palette created a cohesive and elegant look that respects the building's heritage.
• High-Quality Finish: The use of Dulux Trade paint ensured a durable and high-quality finish that will last for years to come.
• Seamless Integration: Modern design elements were seamlessly integrated with the building’s original features, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.

Overall, the project was a success, revitalizing Bignold House and transforming it into a desirable residential property while preserving its historical significance. The careful balance of restoration and modernization has made Bignold House a standout example of how historical buildings can be adapted for contemporary use.