Craftsmanship and Collaboration bring exquisite Victorian Station maps back to life for all to enjoy.

Two exquisite ceramic Victorian maps at London’s Victoria Station have recently undergone meticulous restoration, preserving the rich history of the London, Brighton, and South Coast Railway, a gateway to the south coast, dating back to 1899.

Originally created in the Victorian era, these maps illustrate London’s layout, showcasing the grandeur and complexity of the city and surrounding network in the 19th Century, evoking memories of journeys to stations long since disappeared.

The restoration project was undertaken by expert conservators from Restore London Ltd, who employed traditional techniques to meticulously clean, repair, and enhance the visual appeal of the maps. Each tile was carefully hand-cleaned, with missing tiles cast to match the originals, and damaged areas restored to maintain authenticity while rejuvenating these historical artifacts.

Significant portions of the original material, including the granite sections, had suffered extensive deterioration over the years. To achieve the closest possible match, the Restore team conducted thorough research using historic photographs from Historic England. This research led to a detailed process of sampling and approvals between Restore London and Conservation Architect Benedict O’Looney, resulting in a seamless and faithful restoration.

Visitors to Victoria Station can now admire these stunning cartographic works of art, which not only preserve London’s past but also enhance the station’s vibrant atmosphere. The restored maps stand as a testament to the craftsmanship of the original artisans and the dedication of those involved in their preservation, making them a valuable addition to the city’s cultural heritage.

INVVU Construction Consultants, in collaboration with Network Rail, the Railway Heritage Trust, GTR Govia Thameslink, Conservation Architect Benedict O’Looney, and Restore London, ensured that every colour, texture, and detail was painstakingly restored to bring these Victorian maps and their surroundings back to their former glory.

This project has been a fantastic experience, and we extend our sincere thanks to GTR Govia Thameslink, Network Rail and the Railway Heritage Trust for their unwavering support and commitment to preserving the UK’s rail heritage. Their dedication and funding made this restoration possible, and we are proud to be part of this incredible effort to conserve architectural treasures for future generations.

To further commemorate these restorations and share information about their history, Network Rail plan to install a Blue Heritage Plaque, which will sit proudly alongside the maps.

For more information contact: info@invvu.co.uk