This is a very good example of how some of the traditional Wolverton shopfronts can look after some care and attention is put into them. Previously it looked a very attractive shopfront but details had been overlooked/painted over. The charity shop that had been based there just had a laminated card sign which over hung the fascia.

This shopfront improvement was carried out in two phases with a change of image in between because the business was sold as a going concern. The first tenants opened as a Funeral Parlour and started some improvements. It was while the shopfront was being prepared for painting that the exciting discovery of a 1920's bronze window surround was made.The tenants basically cleaned the bronze work and spent shopfronts grant money on signage. They painted the rest of the surrounds and door. We put the rest of the grant, that they were eligible for on hold until they were ready. This was to be used for specialist bronze restoration .The black and white chequer-board effect doorstep with its marble surround was thoroughly cleaned.

The business changed hands and required a name change and change of image. They were eligible for the bronze restoration grant and asked to ensure that they used suitable heritage colours and appropriate signage. While they were preparing to repaint, they found that the door was a very fine light oak so it was agreed it would not be appropriate to paint this. The rest of the paintwork used a light Dulux Heritage Edwardian cream.

The bronze work was restored including the door furniture. Bronze detailing was added to the door glass.

We consider this to be a very elegant scheme which emphasises the fine shop front.

Specialist metal work conservation & door details: Tim Ward