5 St. James's Square, London
Ian Waller was engaged as plasterwork consultant for the restoration of 5 St James’s Square, a landmark Georgian property with exceptional historic interiors. Working alongside the design and planning teams, he helped reinstate the building’s original decorative scheme, refine new interventions, and elevate its interiors to the highest level of quality.
Project:
Full refurbishment of Wentworth House, a Georgian landmark in central London
Role:
Consultant on plasterwork restoration, detailing, specification and ceiling design
Key Challenges:
Unpicking decades of poor repairs, matching original enrichments, and integrating modern services
Outcome:
Classically elegant interiors suitable for top-tier commercial tenants
Result:
A highly sought-after address achieving record rental values in the capital
The Story
5 St James’s Square, also known as Wentworth House, is one of London’s most distinguished Georgian addresses. Originally built between 1748–51 by architect Matthew Brettingham the Elder for the 2nd Earl of Strafford, the building features interiors influenced by Holkham Hall and enriched by later Rococo interventions. After decades of insensitive refurbishment, Ian Waller was brought in to lead the restoration of its decorative plasterwork.
At the planning stage, Ian undertook an extensive survey of the interiors to separate original 18th-century details from later additions and poor-quality 1980s repairs. Working with the design team, he developed bespoke solutions for restoring fragile enrichments, advised on materials and moulding methods, and prepared room-by-room specifications for the refurbishment.
His work also included the design of new elements - including a contemporary coffered ceiling for the new upper storey — which balanced the requirements of modern office use with heritage expectations. In areas where HVAC and access requirements risked visual compromise, Ian designed interventions that preserved the classical character while allowing for long-term functionality.
A hallmark of Ian’s approach was his commitment to clarity and collaboration. Whether uncovering original cornices through careful peel-away works, or testing new enrichment materials for durability and finish, his focus remained on achieving seamless quality throughout.
The completed project has been recognised not only for its visual impact but also for its commercial success - achieving one of the highest rental values per square foot in London. More than a restoration, the scheme has brought Wentworth House back to life as one of the capital’s most refined addresses.
Ian Waller oversaw plasterwork restoration at 5 St James’s Square, preserving Georgian details while integrating modern systems
such as air conditioning discreetly.
Further Projects
