Architecture Summary:
This conservation work on the queen’s alcove included repairs to the roof, replacement of missing cast iron dolphin feet to the bench and repairs and conservation of the tiled interior.

The new site for the bathing machine had to balance protection of the artefact in the hostile waterfront environment with it appearing ready to roll down the beach and into the water. The project included provision of purpose made marquee to protect the bathing machine during the winter.

The original beach pavilion was a simple, two room structure, consisting of two changing rooms, accessed from a veranda, and dated from the time when Osborne House was used as a convalescent home. The finishes were stripped back to the timber frame which was then extended to create toilets, changing rooms and a beach café. The project included the interior design of the café space.

Management of people on the beach and protection of the vegetated shingle was achieved through simple low rope fences and timber boardwalks which provided access to the beach in controlled locations.

The project has been a very successful addition to the visitor experience at Osborne House and received a Design Award from the Isle of Wight Society.