Investigation and assessment of decorative plaster ceilings

Richard Ireland
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Richard Ireland: Plaster & Paint, Consultancy and Conservation of Historic Buildings, UK

Journal of Building Survey, Appraisal & Valuation, 2021, vol. 9, issue 3, 228-245

Abstract: Plaster ceilings are an intrinsic feature of historic buildings, from high-status palaces and public buildings with elaborate decorative ceilings to vernacular domestic interiors with plain flatwork. An appreciation of the stylistic development is the first visual evidence for assessing their cultural significance and intrinsic value. Periodic campaigns of decoration coupled with repair and restoration often serve to mask original materials, methods and condition, misleading the unwary and inexperienced observer. A comprehensive understanding of the materials and methods used for fabrication is essential in helping to form an appropriate conservation approach to minimise intervention and loss of original fabric in remedial works that may be necessitated by decay and deterioration, or even loss. The partial collapse of the Apollo Theatre auditorium ceiling in London in 2013 particularly highlighted and focused attention on the inspection and certification of historic plaster ceilings throughout the UK. This paper outlines some of the key materials, fabrication methods, agents of decay, investigation, and approaches to repair and conservation of historic plaster ceilings.

Keywords: historic ceilings; ceiling fabrication; lime plaster; gypsum plaster; fibrous plaster; inspection; decay; conservation repair (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: R3 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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