Restoration and Conservation of Alexander Pope's Grotto

Richmond upon Thames, Greater London

AABC Conservation Awards Citation

Alexander Pope’s Grotto, an enchanting Grade II* structure, unfolds a captivating tale of architectural brilliance, eclectic design, and intricate conservation.

The small network of tunnels, connecting Pope’s villa and garden, is a masterpiece adorned with over 30 tons of precious materials, including ores, spars, mundic, stalactites, crystals, diamonds, marbles, alabaster, snakestones, and freestone, among others. This remarkable collection, a gift from friends worldwide over two decades in the mid-18th century, faced deterioration over the years, exacerbated by pilfering and inappropriate repairs, became the subject of comprehensive conservation efforts. The first was the South Chamber as a pilot area in 2017 (Phase 1 works) and the final stages completed in 2022 and 2023 (Phase 2). 

The conservation philosophy centred on consolidating and stabilising the Grotto’s fabric to arrest decay and ensure safety, while respecting its historical significance. The Grotto, with its two main chambers flanking a central one, underwent meticulous conservation techniques to address centuries of decay. One of the primary challenges was overcoming inappropriate repairs and waterinduced deterioration. Cleaning works involved the removal of layers of dust and dirt from walls and ceilings, with special attention given to loose stones and minerals. Treatment of ironwork and fixings, including the replacement of corroded fixings with stainless steel, played a crucial role in ensuring structural integrity. Consolidation using lime mortars emerged as a key conservation approach, addressing voids, open joints, and delaminating areas. 

The removal of cementitious materials, such as the cement screed on the floor, had significant heritage benefits, revealing the historic brick floor and allowing the building to breathe. Uncovering original features, like the exposed brick floor confirming different construction stages and the lead pipe indicating a water route, added layers to the Grotto’s historical narrative. Conservation efforts also included uncovering timber constructions, consolidating deteriorating timber elements, and carefully removing layers like pebbledash to reveal original brick corbels and minerals. In areas with missing minerals or inappropriate repairs, meticulous care was taken in the removal of cement and the re-setting of stones using lime putty mortar. A notable aspect of the project was the comprehensive lighting scheme implemented during Phase 2, enhancing the visitor experience and storytelling capabilities of the Grotto. 

The project showcases a delicate balance between consolidation, preservation of original features, and embracing modern interpretative elements, such as the video projection of the reconstructed 1740s Thames.

Judges’ Comments: “The conservation of Alexander Pope’s Grotto not only preserves a unique architectural gem but also illuminates the story of the Grotto, its history, and its diverse collection, ensuring that this historical marvel continues to captivate and educate visitors for generations to come.”