The Theatre Royal Drury Lane, a famous London landmark, has been entertaining the masses since the 17th Century. The current building dating from the 19th Century has recently been refurbished, with Wilton Carpets Commercial providing 750 square metres of high quality bespoke carpet.Restoring the theatre to its former glory, the entrance, landing, stairways and the Grand Saloon have been fitted with woven carpet that reflects the theatre’s period interior.
Working alongside interiors expert Edward Bulmer, David Bamford of D&S Bamford (Makers) Ltd was tasked with sourcing a manufacturer capable of producing a carpet that would be a fitting tribute to the venue’s heritage, reflecting the grandeur and magnificence expected of one of London’s most famous theatres. With Wilton Carpets Commercial’s renowned bespoke service, David commissioned the Wiltshire based company to produce an 11-row woven axminster construction to deliver the perfect solution with exceptional clarity in design and one that would retain its good looks despite heavy footfall.
Taking inspiration from a design by the theatre’s original architect, B D Wyatt, for Tatton Park in Cheshire, Edward used his wealth of experience to create bespoke designs using Wilton’s versatile selection of stock colours in perfect combination.
Edward was most enthused by the Grand Saloon, explaining, “The original plan was to install wood flooring in this most beautiful of rooms, as had been the case for many centuries before. However, we were always concerned about the acoustics of the room so sought an answer that would ensure the room remained in keeping with its history as well as meeting modern day concerns. Therefore, instead of choosing a wall-to-wall carpet, we opted for a carpet that left the wood floor exposed around the edges of the room. In effect, the timber floor acts as a frame to a beautiful piece of artwork; the design comprises blues, greens, reds and a striking gold that offset the recreated Wyatt colour scheme with green marble and architectural gilding.”
Along with the more subtle beige design used in the entrance, landing and stairway, the Grand Saloon carpet was installed by Bollin Valley Flooring of Macclesfield. The carpet has received acclaim from visitors and staff alike, who have marvelled at the stunning design created by Edward, the team at D&S Bamford, and Wilton Carpets Commercial, and the whole scheme has been awarded Best Restoration of a Georgian Interior by the Georgian Group.
“Working with Wilton Carpets Commercial was a smooth process, offering a service that was exactly as bespoke as we needed it to be,” explains Edward. “For instance, the stair runner was added at a late stage of the project, demonstrating the company’s flexibility as well as its impressive attention to detail.”
For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com
