Watts Gallery

Following a competitive tender process MCS was selected carry out the reroofing and extension works to the Grade II* Listed Watts Gallery located in Compton, Surrey.  

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Watts Gallery is the first and possibly the only remaining purpose-built public gallery devoted to a ‘single artist’ George Frederic Watts.  The building was constructed in 1904 and is located within an area of outstanding natural beauty.

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MCS was awarded the contract because it offered the Client an innovative programme and phasing of works that allowed the tearoom to remain operational by the Client for a significantly longer period than other tenderers. This allowed the gallery to maintain the valuable income flow from the tearoom.

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MCS worked closely with the appointed Council Conservation Officer to review, plan, and undertake all aspects of the works in accordance with requirements.

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Works commenced with an R&D survey and then the team set about refurbishing and extending the tearoom area, and constructing a new timber framed toilet block. 

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The roof of the tearoom was stripped, insulated and retiled and then full refurbishment works were completed internally along with a new disabled access ramp at the rear. 

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Empty redundant areas of the existing tearoom building were upgraded and refurbished to provide additional function room and tearoom overspill facilities. 

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The works also included the full reroofing of the main large gallery shop building adjacent the tearoom whilst the shop and offices remained in occupation. 

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A wide selection of natural materials was selected including clay roof tiles, leadwork, and traditional oak joinery, purpose made metalwork and a lot of intricate architectural detailing.