In a city renowned for its historic architecture, Bath's Grade II listed, House of Fraser buildings on Milsom Street, affectionately known as ‘Jolly’s’, has stood as an iconic landmark since 1831. Unbeknown to shoppers, a project is unfolding to restore five water damaged timber-framed stained-glass skylights that grace the ground floor and top floor of this distinguished establishment.

While the repairs aim to restore the skylights' original splendour, the project also requires innovative measures to ensure the safety of shoppers below.

Undertaking restoration work on a bustling retail street poses unique challenges, especially when working above the retail space of a popular department store during the most critical retail period of the year. To address this, principal contractors NKS Contracts, have erected a scaffold crash deck underneath the skylights, creating a protective barrier to ensure shoppers' safety and forming a platform for their team to complete their work with precision and attention to detail. Shoppers can continue to enjoy their Christmas shopping without disruption, while above, skilled workers meticulously carry out their work.

A focal point of this project is to navigate the delicate balance between restoration and preservation, opting for bespoke joinery to ensure an authentic and seamless repair while completing internal decorations as part of the restoration process. NKS’ craftsmen will recreate intricate joinery, paying homage to the original designs and craftsmanship to seamlessly align restoration works with the building's rich heritage.

With the pilot project completed and awaiting listed building consent, the project is planned in two distinct phases over 16 weeks. Three skylights above the ground floor are refurbished and two stained-glass skylights above Menswear are to be restored in the coming weeks.

About NKS Contracts Ltd