Gartnavel Royal Hospital Chapel was built in 1904 to the designs of John James Burnet who is recognised as arguably Scotland’s most successful architect of the period.
The Chapel is category B Listed and constructed out of good quality, warm materials, synonymous with the arts and crafts style. The detailing of its entrances and porch make it particularly welcoming and it is home to beautiful stained glass windows, two by Robert Anning Bell and a large tripartite window, are key features of the interior.
The chapel has been completely restored to become the flagship centre for Cancer Support Scotland, a charity focused on supporting anyone affected by cancer via counselling and complementary therapies.
Rainbow Glass Studio LTD was appointed by Glasgow Preservation Trust to conserve and restore the stained glass. The Robert Anning Bell windows were in very good condition and only required minimal conservation, however, the large tripartite window had severe issues, including paint degradation and poor intervention by a previous restorer.
All 3 panels suffered from severe loss of paint, to a level where it detracted both from the value of the windows and also the visual appearance. There was also evidence of previous intervention, such as the replacement hand of St Luke which was of a particular poor quality.
This project incorporated the most current methods of stained glass conservation to allow the sensitive re-introduction of lost painted detail and a new isothermal protection system that will preserve the beautiful stained glass for years to come. The poor previous repairs were replaced with new modern inserts that have been accurately painted in the style of the original artist.
Rainbow Glass Studio is a unique family run company that aims to conserve the glorious historic stained glass windows within Scotland, while also striving to create new contemporary works of art.
Rainbow Glass Studio was founded by Moira and Stephen Malcolm in 2001. They have now expanded into new custom designed stained glass workshop, which is over 170m² with an additional design studio.
All work conducted by Rainbow Glass Studio is of the highest standard by skilled craftsperson’s using traditional methods and high quality materials. They have a full multi-skilled team of 10 which gives peace of mind that any project can be completed on time and to a very high standard.
The inclusion of Mr Chris Chesney ACR to the team of directors gives Rainbow Glass Studio the benefit of an ICON Accredited conservator. The team have worked hard to elevate their status and aim to become the leading stained glass firm in Scotland. Commitment to continual professional development, has won contracts with Sir Robert McAlpine and Bam Construction.
Please contact Rainbow Glass Studio for any future advice regarding architectural stained glass windows: info@rainbowglass.biz.
Rainbow Glass Studio cover all areas of Scotland but would welcome any enquiries from further afield. For more information please visit: www.rainbowglass.biz.
