Restoring history: DBR completes iconic sculpture reinstatement at Olympia London

DBR London has completed the reinstatement of the plinth and three lost figures at Olympia London’s Grand Hall entrance. The project, which began in 2024, has returned the Grand Hall entrance to its original Victorian grandeur, recreating statuary removed in the mid-20th century. The restoration combined extensive historical research, bespoke structural solutions and exceptional craftsmanship from DBR’s specialist team.

Uncovering the truth behind the statues

The project began with a challenge: identifying the figures that once stood above the Grand Hall. Historic England’s records referred to a “seated figure of Britannia” removed in the 1950s, yet archive photographs revealed a standing central figure flanked by two seated companions. DBR investigated the building’s origins as the National Agricultural Hall, examining historical documentation and consulting sculptural specialists. The original 1886 statuary had been executed in Portland stone by Mr. Seale, with modelling directed by William Cave Thomas. The investigation identified the figures as Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest, standing proudly between Triptolemus, God of sowing and milling and Persephone, goddess of growth and spring. This trio, often portrayed together in classical mythology, suited a building originally dedicated to agricultural innovation. The discovery transformed the project, grounding the restoration in historical accuracy.

Selecting and testing the stone

With figures identified, DBR’s team turned to material selection and testing. DBR sourced fresh blocks of Portland stone, conducting rigorous checks to ensure the material was suitable for the intended use. The team created detailed technical drawings specifying every dimension, joint and structural element.

Engineering the invisible support

A technical challenge lay beneath the visible stonework, as the original plinth structure had been removed during 20th century alterations and the altered masonry could not support a new solid plinth. The project team designed and installed a substantial steel frame capable of supporting the new plinth and sculptures’ considerable weight. The engineering solution required precise coordination between structural calculations, listed building constraints and the visual requirements of the finished pediment.

Craftsmanship brings the vision to life

Master carver Simon Smith and his team of specialist stone carvers set to work, carving each figure based on historical photographs and classical references. Their work demanded exceptional attention to detail, from Demeter’s commanding presence to the symbolic attributes held by Triptolemus and Persephone.

The installation required careful and precise lifting of stone. Exceptional precision was required for the carving process. Each piece was carefully positioned, jointed and secured. The completed statuary is now a testament to bold Victorian ambition and outstanding 21st century conservation expertise.

Making sure the past has a future

Brendan Foley, Contracts Director, DBR says, “the restored pediment returns Olympia London’s Grand Hall to its intended architectural vision. This project exemplifies DBR’s commitment to heritage conservation. It combines rigorous research, structural innovation and traditional craftsmanship. Olympia London’s iconic statuary will now remain visible for generations to come.”

About DBR

DBR is a specialist conservation company, passionate about the foundational role our nation’s historic buildings have in shaping our future. By adopting a progressive approach, combining quality craftsmanship with exemplary management skills, we have a meaningful impact on places and people.

We work on buildings from palaces to private houses, cathedrals to chapels, town halls to monuments. They may be world famous landmarks, multi-million-pound conservation schemes or more modest projects; but our contribution is always shaped by care and craftsmanship.

DBR’s greatest asset is its people; a diverse in-house team of specialist craftspeople, technicians and managers. We are as fluent in technology as we are in heritage, using innovative techniques to give time-honoured craft and construction skills new relevance.

Our company was founded on the principles of providing excellent advice and superior craftsmanship, and those principles remain within our DNA. We are proud to hold a Royal Warrant to H.M. King Charles III, and have won many awards for our work.

We love what we do and conservation has never been more important. As the climate emergency accelerates, so does the need to reinvent rather than replace existing buildings. Our expertise will be instrumental in achieving this shift.