JJA rehouses Wernher Collection

Jasper Jacob Associates has designed the interiors, graphics, showcases and installations at Rangers House, an English Heritage property that has been completely refurbished to house the Wernher Collection.

The exhibition, which opens this week, aims to recreate the spirit of Edwardian connoisseurship and make the interpretation of the collection accessible to a wider audience than normally visit country house properties, says JJA practice manager Charlotte Callaghan.

‘Social inclusion is a key objective for English Heritage and we were briefed to design something that isn’t aimed just at the art history buffs,’ says Callaghan.

Callaghan says the consultancy has re-created room sets and the atmosphere of Sir Julius Wernher’s London home, including the recreation of his wife’s boudoir and drawing room, to broaden the collection’s appeal.

‘We’ve interpreted it at a personal level to make it more accessible and brought the collection to life using old photographs and by incorporating themes such as collecting,’ she adds.

The group has also designed a number of bespoke showcases, in a similar fashion to those used by Sir Julius Wernher.

The audio tour guide and graphic panels have been designed to ensure they do not detract from the overall atmosphere of the period house, says Callaghan.

JJA was appointed following a six-way creative pitch. It worked with architect Fieldent & Mawson and lighting consultant Sutton Vane Associates on the project.