Mansion-block common parts

Keep the original materials legible

Westminster’s audit records red-brick late-Victorian and Edwardian mansion blocks around Great Titchfield Street, with painted sash windows and varied decorative detailing. Inside the building in your enquiry, identify retained tiles, glazing, stone steps and timber handrails separately from the painted walls. The schedule should protect the existing features that give the entrance its identity.

Sources: Westminster: East Marylebone audit

One instruction for the shared spaces

Ask the freeholder, residents’ company or managing agent to define the commissioned area and nominate the approving contact. Door leaves, frames, lift surrounds and the inner entrance lobby can sit under different responsibilities. Circulate a surface schedule and colour sample for agreement before preparation begins, with the process for variations recorded.

Keep access practical during the repaint

Work through how residents, visitors and deliveries will pass each stage. Review temporary protection, the position of equipment and the daily close-down with the building representative. Any work affecting a fire door or its fittings needs separate competent advice; decoration should not alter seals, signage or door operation by default.

Agree the standard of review

A shared stair is seen in changing daylight and at close quarters under wall lights. Include the landing returns, skirting corners and lower wall sections in the inspection. Record the accepted colours and products for later maintenance, together with any areas intentionally excluded or left pending a separate repair.