A client in Kent asked us to clean a contemporary chandelier installed above a stairwell. The fitting dates from the 1980s and combines a chrome-plated spiral frame with strass glass drops along each curve.
The Piece
A 1980s chandelier of contemporary design, with a swirling chrome-plated spiral frame and strass glass drops set along every curve. The piece is of substantial size and is fixed directly above a stairwell.
Work Carried Out
- Site survey and assessment of access requirements
- Protection of the stair treads, handrail and adjacent finishes
- Erection of adjustable stair ladders for safe working at height
- Hand cleaning and polishing of each strass drop
- Treatment of the chrome frame to restore an even, reflective finish
- Final inspection and electrical safety check
Approach
Access was the principal consideration. Adjustable stair ladders were set securely across the uneven treads, allowing every section of the fitting to be reached without disturbing the surrounding decoration. Cleaning was carried out in place over several hours.
Outcome
The chandelier was returned to a uniform, reflective finish, with the strass drops once again carrying light across the stairwell. No element was removed, and the fitting remains in its original position. Comparable in-situ cleaning of contemporary strass fittings is documented in the pair of Strass crystal chandeliers in North London and a contemporary crystal chandelier in West London.
