The old curiosity shop

The Old Curiosity Shop is a historic, vernacular timber-framed store located on the London School of Economics (LSE) campus. This unique building, made from old ship’s timber, survived the Great Fire of London in 1666 and the World War II Blitz. Situated at 13-14 Portsmouth Street, it has a distinctive look with its tilted roof, overhanging upper floor, and Tudor gables, making it appear like a “Harry Potter” set. The shop dates back to the 16th century and has a rich history and a Grade II* Listed Status.

Originally part of the Duchess of Portsmouth’s estate, the building has been used for various purposes, including a dairy, a home, and a shop. King Charles II even gave it to his mistress. In 1882, the shop was named after Charles Dickens’ story “The Old Curiosity Shop.” Although the name was added after Dickens wrote the novel, many believe the building inspired his 1841 story. In 2018, LSE bought the building as part of its campus expansion and committed to restoring it. LSE Estates hired Ayesa to oversee the restoration, working with Heritage England, the City of Westminster Conservation Officer, Sykes & Co., and Dolmen Conservation.

Ayesa was appointed by the LSE (London School of Economics) to manage the restoration of The Old Curiosity Shop, a Grade II* Listed building. When we started in 2021, the building had many issues, including water damage, rotting timber, and a deteriorating roof.

Our role included overseeing and monitoring structural repairs, stabilisation, and refurbishing timber members. We worked with multiple stakeholders including the City of Westminster Conservation Officer and Heritage England. Applying SPAB Principles, we supervised repairs using Oak and Douglas Fir to match the existing wood. Our team managed the refurbishment of the sash windows, repairs to the shop front and fascia timber, and replacement of roof tiles with handmade Keymar tiles, along with lead and slate roofs.

Working closely with timber and conservation specialists, we made sure the shop retained its historical context while keeping its structural integrity. Traditional brick and render repairs were made to prevent water damage. Along with reconfigured cast iron hoppers and rainwater goods, the regraded pavement allowed the jettied top storey to drop rain directly on the pavement as it would have done when originally constructed. Following research, paint selection was guided by a late 19th-century colour scheme, with sign writing done by Sykes’ specialist decorators. The shopfront is completed with a cream upper section and green shopfront, which aligns to its heritage.

The restoration of The Old Curiosity Shop has been a remarkable success. Our meticulous attention to detail has breathed new life into this iconic building. The updated facade, featuring cream plaster and a green storefront, transports visitors back to a bygone era. This project has not only restored the structure but also emphasized its literary and historical significance in the London cityscape. The Old Curiosity Shop now serves as a tangible connection between Charles Dickens’ stories and real history, eagerly awaiting new visitors. LSE Estates plans to reintegrate the shop into active use, attracting more visitors and revitalizing the area.

Winner: RICS UK Regional Awards 2024 – London and South East – Heritage Award.