Moorfields Eye Hospital is the leading provider of eye health services in the UK and a world-class centre of excellence for ophthalmic research and education. London Stone Conservation was commissioned to repair the faience façade without disrupting the Hospital’s vital work.

The King George V Extension, designed by architect Alec Smithers in 1935, features a striking Art Deco façade made of buff-colored faience and a steel framework with a crushed brick and concrete core. The Portland stone sculpture Christ Healing the Blind, carved by Eric Gill, sits at the apex. Over time, the façade experienced structural failures due to corrosion of the underlying metalwork, leading to cracks and water ingress.

Our expert team addressed these issues through a careful analysis of the damage. The rusted metalwork was treated to prevent further deterioration, and the stonework was reinforced with stainless steel. Repairs to the faience façade were carried out using a color-matched, breathable lime mortar, allowing for natural movement while restoring the structure’s integrity.

The project also involved stone cleaning to restore the façade’s original beauty, ensuring this architectural gem remains a lasting testament to Moorfields’ rich heritage. The careful planning of this project ensured that the repairs were completed efficiently, without compromising the hospital’s daily operations.