53 Gordon Square, University College London

The School of Oriental and African Studies commissioned a conservation statement in order to understand, assess the importance of, and identify the need for specific policies for the management of the site. As part of the relocation of the world-renowned Chinese ceramics collection to a new gallery at the British Museum, the Percival David Foundation wished to review their options for the vacant space left by the transfer. Our assessment studied the complexity of the buildings history, focusing on change in uses/ ownership, characters (‘Bloomsbury Group’) linked with it and evolutionary changes to the physical fabric. 53 Gordon Square was part of a symmetrical terrace of four houses, built under direction of Thomas Cubitt. There are two phases of development in the building plan, with residential quarters being present in the period from 1851 to 1951 and the Gallery areas being dominant from 1951. Its interior character given by the mix of original features and later additions is of interest. Damage from inappropriate or ill-planned repair and alteration were identified as being a potential threat to its cultural significance. The statement concluded that future changes should respect the historic character and appearance of the principal internal spaces, as well as their historic plan form as developed up to 1900.