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Kensington Olympia
Heritage Works
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Olympia has stood at the heart of London’s cultural life since 1886, when its original elevation was designed by architect Henry Coe. Over generations, the building has evolved into a world-renowned venue, hosting exhibitions, learning, performance, and public gathering on a grand scale.
Time and adaptation, however, have left their mark. Layers of intervention have slowly distanced Olympia from its original architectural intent, making its current transformation both a technical challenge and a rare opportunity.
Client
Laing O'rourke
Location
Kensington
Grade listing
Grade II
Fabric
Lead
Slate
Glass
Concrete
Returning to the Original Vision
DBR London has been appointed to deliver a major conservation package to restore Olympia’s historic fabric and bring the building closer to its original appearance and former glory. Central to this process has been detailed research into Henry Coe’s original design, work made particularly complex by the limited availability of historic records.
This investigative approach allows DBR’s team to identify non-historic features and carefully remove or repair later interventions, ensuring that disruption to the original fabric is kept to an absolute minimum.
Research, Stone, and the Search for Authenticity
The conservation works include extensive masonry repairs across the building, from the removal of redundant fixings to the repair of brickwork, stonework, and the execution of precise indent repairs. Rendering works and the reinstatement of stone cornices using lime mortar form a key part of the programme.
To ensure continuity of material, DBR’s masonry managers are undertaking quarry visits to source appropriate Portland stone. Understanding the geological characteristics of the stone, including bed heights and correct edge-bedding of coping stones, is fundamental to achieving historically accurate and durable repairs.
On this project, DBR’s draughtsman is also a trained stonemason, strengthening the continuity between design, detailing, and execution on site.
Building the Scaffold Around the Craft
DBR’s experience in stone installation informs every aspect of site planning, including scaffold design. Loading bays and lifting points are carefully coordinated to ensure stone elements can be safely and efficiently transported to their point of installation.
This integrated approach allows DBR’s masonry teams to install stonework to the highest standards, balancing safety, precision, and productivity while working on a complex and heavily trafficked London site.
Sculpting the Past Back into Place
DBR’s conservation sculptural team has undertaken detailed surveys of Olympia’s decorative elements. Clay maquettes are being created to study original forms and proportions, enabling historically accurate reproductions of damaged or missing features.
This sculptural process bridges research and craftsmanship, ensuring that every recreated element reflects the intent and artistry of the original building.
Windows, Glass, and Fine Detail
Window repairs form a significant part of the conservation package. Works include sash window repairs, timber splicing, resin repairs, and glazing replacement.
The glazing itself is distinctive: mottled glass, unique to this building, requiring specialist handling and an elevated level of skill from DBR’s highly trained teams. These repairs preserve both the visual character and performance of Olympia’s historic windows.
Plasterwork Finished by Hand
Internally, DBR is carrying out conservation plaster repairs, including the restoration of cornices and mouldings. Using conservation-grade rubber, skilled plasterers have produced precise casts to recreate historic profiles with clarity and accuracy.
These finely crafted details complete the internal conservation works, quietly reinforcing the character and craftsmanship that define Olympia.
