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Work continues apace on Down Place House, the Grade II listed building
which forms part of the original Bray Studios site. The building is not yet
water-tight so the scaffolding and roof covering will remain in place whilst
the major work continues this Autumn. The west elevation, which was the
original entrance to the house, has been completely rebuilt using thousands
of hand-made 2-inch bricks, replicating the original. Throughout the building
in the roof, external and internal walls and floors, many rotting timbers have
had to be replaced. The southern part of the roof has been replaced and is
now complete with repaired castellations and new grey natural slates. The
rest of the roof will be finished this Autumn, and the chimney on the north
elevation will be rebuilt. The iconic portico overlooking the river has had to
have extensive new steel works but is nearing completion. This river-facing
elevation has had several new bespoke window frames installed, as well as
refurbishment of as many of the original Georgian sash windows as could
be salvaged.
On the wider studio site you may have noticed that much of the surplus
spoil has been relocated and landscaping work is ongoing. New Covid
safety measures such as additional wash hand basins and sanitising
stations are being installed, and it is envisaged that staff will return this
Autumn to begin set and prop making.
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