Updated Decoration For The Music Room At The British Academy

Bagnalls has completed an extensive programme of internal redecoration works within the Music Room at the British Academy, an elegant space styled in the manner of Louis XVI. The company was selected for the project following a series of successful internal and external works previously undertaken for the Academy.

The Music Room’s refined décor originates from around 1900, when Arthur Guinness and his family resided at the property. Its name is inspired by the intricate ornamental plasterwork, which features representations of musical instruments. Today, the room remains a highly sought-after venue for weddings and private events.

Bagnalls’ team was commissioned to refresh the paintwork on all walls, ceilings and woodwork across the main room and adjoining bar. The project also included the restoration of the room’s striking parquet flooring.

In partnership with AkzoNobel: Dulux, Bagnalls facilitated the creation of scheme mock-ups and colour palette options from the Dulux Heritage range. The Academy ultimately selected a warm, three-tone cream palette, chosen both for its faithfulness to the original colour scheme and its ability to accentuate the decorative plaster features throughout the space.

Although the work was originally scheduled over a three-week period, an unexpected venue booking required a significant adjustment to the programme. Bagnalls accelerated the flooring phase, completing it within just seven days. The team then returned four weeks later to carry out the remaining redecoration works, delivering them within a condensed two-week window.

Despite these scheduling challenges, Bagnalls’ Contracts team successfully delivered the entire project to the highest standards within the summer timeframe. The British Academy commended the Contract Manager’s consistent communication, the company’s flexibility as a specialist painting and decorating contractor, and the professional conduct and organisation demonstrated by the team on site.

Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director of Bagnalls, said: “We are immensely proud to support the British Academy in preserving such a distinguished and historically significant space. The Music Room is a remarkable feature of the building, and our specialist teams approached its restoration with the utmost care and respect. Our ability to adapt to the Academy’s changing requirements while maintaining exemplary standards is a testament to the skill and dedication of everyone involved.”