Journal of Architectural Conservation
Volume 16, Issue 2, July 2010
Issues Surrounding the Conservation of Vitrolite Glass
Fiona Hudd
Paper Summary
As is the case with many innovative materials used in the early part of the twentieth century, Vitrolite rolled opal glass is no longer manufactured. Based on research undertaken for an MSc in Historic Conservation at Oxford Brookes University, this paper examines the history and importance of the glass and the practical issues surrounding its conservation today. Four case studies are used to demonstrate the specific problems, and solutions, found in a range of building projects in Britain. These projects also illustrate some of the issues at the heart of an ongoing debate surrounding the conservation of twentieth-century heritage places.
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Figure 2 Sample showing typical ribbing on the rear of Vitrolite glass. (F. Hudd, 2008)
Figure 6 The Kingstone Store showing repaired facade and loss of gloss on GRP panels. (F. Hudd, 2008)
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Fiona Hudd BA (Hons) Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture (Hons), RIBA, MSc Management in Construction, MSc Historic Conservation
Fiona Hudd is an architect working in private practice and specializing in building conservation. She trained at Newcastle University and has recently completed an MSc in Historic Conservation at Oxford Brookes University graduating with Distinction in July 2009.
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