The project to restore and reconfigure this building took five years to complete. We worked closely with the British Council, initially in the UK, and then extensively in Romania. Local contractors and craft workers were used for the construction in the difficult early years of democracy in Romania.

A central reinforced concrete staircase with integrated lift assisted in resolving the earthquake and fire risks. This also allowed us to leave all the main rooms intact and gained access to the attic, which provided us with the additional floor space needed.

Many problems were encountered in a country devastated by years of dictatorship. The construction phase involved a close working relationship with the Romanian team and many visits to Bucharest.

A former stable in the courtyard to the rear of the building has been renovated to create an English Language School and Internet Cafe.