To mark the Golden Jubilee in 2002 of the accession of HM The Queen in 1952, the restoration of the chapel at Kensington Palace was selected as one of a limited number of special projects to be undertaken. The chapel was restored to reflect its condition and use in the 1830s when it was originally created. In recent years the Chapel had been converted to accommodation use, retaining however much of its original fabric and finishes. 

BCA are proud to have been involved in the project with the Royal Household, Conservation Architects Donald Insall Associates, and the design and construction teams, to recreate the historical context and atmosphere of the Chapel.

The design brief was to “provide comprehensive new electrical and heating services whilst ensuring that the nature and historical context of the space is not compromised.” The trench heating pipework was replaced by more efficient emitters to provide conservation and background heating levels, with concealed local electric heating under the pews to provide personal comfort. 

To overcome the difficulties in re-establishing connections to the Palace central heating system or providing gas supplies, a flexible controllable electric boiler system was incorporated.

The 19th Century chandelier was refurbished and converted for electric operation and the electrical supply and distribution system upgraded to allow adaptable and variable use of the Chapel, all discreetly integrated into restored fabric and building voids.

The Chapel was rededicated in December 2002 and continues to be used, primarily for private Royal Family services and occasions.