To ensure the safety of local wildlife, an ecologist will collaborate with DBR’s team to monitor the bat box housed within the structure. Only once it has been confirmed that no bats are present will the temporary removal of the box proceed, allowing work to begin.
At the heart of the project is the careful repair of the gateway’s gates. These will be expertly removed by DBR’s conservators and taken off-site for restoration, ensuring that any necessary repairs are carried out with precision and respect for the original craftsmanship. Once restored, the gates will be reinstalled, returning them to their rightful place within the structure.
Beyond the gates, attention will be given to the intricate joinery of the gateway. Any splits in the carvings will be carefully repaired, and loose elements will be re-fixed to preserve the integrity of the traditional Japanese design.
A crucial element of the conservation process is the redecoraion of the gateway. To ensure
historical accuracy, conservators will first take samples of the existing white and brown coatings for analysis, allowing them to understand the composition of the original finishes. The findings from this study will inform the redecoration scheme, ensuring that the refreshed coatings remain faithful to the gateway’s historic appearance. All white details will be carefully prepared and repainted to match their original finish, with the same approach applied to the brown coatings.
Through this comprehensive programme of conservation, DBR is dedicated to preserving the beauty and authenticity of the Japanese Gateway, ensuring its legacy for future generations to admire.
