Architectural paint research is a highly specialised and relatively new research tool that allows the decorative history and archaeological development of a building to be discovered. Lincoln Conservation has a reputation for excellence in this field. Paint sampling and reporting will comply with British Standard BS EN 17543:2021 (Conservation of Cultural Heritage - Finishers of built heritage - Investigation and documentation)
What is architectural paint research?
Architectural paint research can be a condition of many projects seeking listed building consent and/or funding from national heritage bodies and is normally undertaken at an early stage to inform the conservation plan for the building, as it allows for the development of an in-depth understanding of the decorative, architectural and social history of the site.
It also presents the project team with the full scope of possibilities for re-presentation, conservation and reinstatement of that building. In addition, any underlying or potential issues of material incompatibility are identified before the client embarks on a major works program.
The accumulated paint finishes within a site are researched and analysed; then the findings are interpreted, in conjunction with archival data. The skilled researcher provides the client with an extremely detailed interpretation of the decorative history of a building and also its archaeological development.
Archival research is a key element of a paint investigation and may reveal the significance of paint schemes in relation to major events within the building’s history.
How do we do it?
Why is it needed?
