Stairrods (UK) completes refurbishment project for Scottish Portrait Gallery

The Scottish Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh is due to re-open in November 2011 following a  £2 million refurbishment project, which includes the renovation by Stairrods (UK) of all 180 original, solid brass stair rods.

    The period rods had been damaged over the years by heavy foot traffic, the application of various cleaning materials, plus natural ageing, which had left the stair rods scratched, significantly marked and looking worn.

    Stairrods (UK) of Consett, which manufactures an extensive collection of solid and hollow stair rods in a variety of designs and finishes, provides various specialised services including the re-polishing of rods and brackets, re-plating and making extra long and curved rods to precise specifications; all are particularly useful for renovation and refurbishment projects, where the original style of the building needs to be preserved or restored.

    All of the rods have been re-polished, which involves gradually removing the existing surface whilst paying particular attention to the ornate finials, so that the original decorative design is preserved and the original rod is not damaged in the process. Then, using special polishing mops, the rods are extensively hand-rubbed to bring them back to life and restore a highly polished and flawless sheen.  This technique is suitable for solid brass rods, and Stairrods (UK) is able to handle both round and triangular shaped rods at their works in Consett.  For clients wanting to transform the look of their original rods and achieve a different finish, Stairrods (UK) can re-plate in a number of finishes including satin nickel, chrome, antique brass or black.

    The completed Portrait Gallery will open late November 2011, and John Leighton, Director General of the National Galleries of Scotland commented: “The transformation within the building is simply stunning”.

    For further information about the stock and bespoke products and services Stairrods (UK) provides T: 01207 591176 www.stairrods.co.uk