Making the Most of Mackintosh
78 Derngate in Northampton is the only house in England designed by the internationally important modernist architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Dating from 1917, the building was restored to its original condition and reopened in 2003, together with a collection of Mackintosh features, objects and furniture.
Since its centenary in 2017 and a significant extension of the exhibition and retail spaces in2023, a major audit of the extensive collection has been in the planning stages, both to address issues of care and storage, and to better manage the archive of historic items and materials.
With the generous help of an AIM Pilgrim Trust grant, in July 2024, an expert conservator was put in touch to help work towards these goals.The conservator led an inspirational and informative workshop for key staff, covering all areas of conservation techniques and priorities; from light and humidity to security and pest control. She was then able to undertake a thorough audit of all existing displays, archives and storage, identifying priorities for future improvement and advising on areas of focus and urgency.
The substantial report, sent following the conservator's visit, is proving to be invaluable material and the next stage of the plan to apply for crucial funding to restructure the archives and to improve the care and conservation of this historic building and collection is now underway.
The images show details from the original, iconic Mackintosh screen seen in the Hall/Lounge of 78 Derngate.
