Heritage Preservation and Historic Fabric Consolidation

This Grade I listed church, located on St Dunstan’s Hill in the City of London, occupies a historic site that has served as a place of worship for centuries. London Stone Conservation conducted a sensitive program of stonework repair, historic building conservation, and heritage preservation to restore public safety in this iconic space.

The church, rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren in 1668 after the Great Fire of London, retains only its original tower. The current structure, designed by David Laing in 1818, was largely destroyed during World War II. Its nave and chapels, converted into a public garden in 1971, offer a tranquil retreat in the heart of the City.

When falling historic fabric threatened the safety of the site, London Stone Conservation stepped in to address urgent repairs. An initial make-safe survey involved temporary holding repairs, removal of unstable masonry, and detailed cataloging of all removed or fallen stonework. Once permission was secured to work on the Grade I listed structure, a comprehensive schedule was implemented to:

  • Rebuild and reinstate salvaged stonework on the main arch, columns, and window surrounds.
  • Consolidate decayed stone and render.
  • Perform lime mortar repairs to remove water traps and stabilize surfaces.
  • Apply limewashing to protect friable surfaces.

These works halted the deterioration of the historic stonework, ensuring the integrity of this significant landmark while reopening the gardens, chapel, and west end of the nave to the public. The project reflects a commitment to preserving the architectural legacy of historic buildings through expert heritage preservation.