Unbelievable Transformation: The Art of Restoring Historic Windows
Imagine the magic that happens when the craftsmen who breathed new life into Windsor Castle and the Tower of London turn their attention to a local gem in Northamptonshire!
Tom and George Bayliss, renowned stained glass restorers from Birmingham, are embarking on a remarkable journey to rejuvenate Kettering Library and Art Gallery, affectionately known as Cornerstone. This ambitious project, part of a £7 million renovation, involves replacing over 40 historic windows in a Grade-II listed building.
The uncle-nephew duo has been working tirelessly in tight spaces to ensure the windows are restored to their former glory. But here's where it gets controversial: the building suffered damage during heavy rain in 2023, and the entire roof is being repaired with Collyweston slate tiles, a nod to the county's rich heritage.
North Northamptonshire Council, the proud owners and operators of this historic site, emphasized the "skill and expertise" displayed in this renovation project. The Bayliss team, led by Tom's dad, Nick Bayliss, has a proven track record in architectural glass restoration, having worked on prestigious sites like Hampton Court Palace.
And this is the part most people miss: the gallery and museum have been temporarily closed since the damage, with the library relocated to a new wing. Kettering Library, a beloved institution since 1904, expanded in 1913 with the addition of an art gallery complex. A modern extension has since been added, and the entire complex, including the Manor House Museum, now proudly bears the name Cornerstone.
The restoration work is expected to be completed by August 2026, and it's an exciting transformation to witness. It's a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of these restorers, who bring history back to life.
What do you think about the importance of preserving and restoring historic buildings? Do you have any personal experiences with similar restoration projects? We'd love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
