This project was a rewarding opportunity to work on a heritage building in East Kilbride. The Old Parish Church had suffered years of wear to its entryway, including damaged doors, masonry deterioration, and ageing window frames. My role was to carefully restore and redecorate the space while preserving the character of this historically significant structure.
The entrance vestibule had visible surface breakdown, flaky paint, water staining, and timber deterioration. The stonework and decorative features needed careful attention to bring them back to life without compromising the building’s historic fabric. My aim was to revitalise the entire space with a sympathetic but high-quality finish.
I began by stripping back all loose and failing paint from the internal masonry and timber, including the arched ceiling, walls, and entrance doors. The main internal doors were badly weathered, with cracked paint and aged ironmongery, which I restored by hand with meticulous prep and repair.
Next, I carried out masonry restoration, carefully treating the original stone blocks inside the porch area. These were cleaned, sanded, and sealed to retain their natural appearance while allowing for breathability.
The window surrounds were also stripped, filled, and primed to correct years of uneven wear, followed by a crisp, traditional finish that complemented the stained glass.
The final stage involved full door restoration and redecoration inside and out. From rusty fittings to chipped paintwork, every element was brought back to its best with specialist products and a steady hand. I also refreshed the floor, ensuring the vestibule felt clean, structured, and welcoming to all visitors.
The transformation is both subtle and striking. What was once a faded and flaking entrance is now a refined and respectful restoration, honouring the building’s heritage while making a strong first impression. The contrast between the original stonework, the restored doors, and the vibrant flooring creates a space that feels both warm and enduring.
Check out the images below of some before & after images of the project!
