Conservation of Historic Internal Plasterwork

The long history of decorative plasterwork in the British Isles demonstrates a wide range of resourceful applications of lime, gypsum and many other variants used to cover and/or decorate buildings depending on local resources and affluence and preference of the owner. This seminar provides a succinct overview of the development of plaster applications in the British Isles over the past 2000 years before focussing on the most common traditional methods of interior plaster construction found in historic buildings, their methods of application and failure mechanisms.

Using an exclusive preview of an upcoming conservation guidance note, a range of conservation interventions and support methods are discussed including how to choose and adapt these methods according to current conservation principles and best practice. Whilst considering 20th century materials the challenges facing the heritage sector with ageing fibrous plaster ceilings are examined, with particular attention to the position of industry and research bodies in relation to caring for the large body of listed fibrous plaster ceilings.

Sarah Mayfield is a Heritage Consultant with a background of practical building conservation, sculpture and ornamental plastering. Her company, Mayfield Heritage Ltd., provides historic building fabric condition surveys and specifications of works for clients such as the London Diocese, Brighton Dome and the Institution of Civil Engineers. She has written, “Repair of tradition plaster ceilings,” a FIS guidance book along with Historic England and contributed to Historic England’s upcoming book “Practical Building Conservation – Fibrous Plaster”.