The Church and Chapel Interiors of John Loughborough Pearson : A selective assessment of significance

John Loughborough Pearson(1817-97) was one of the most eminent and distinguished architects of theVictorian Gothic Revival movement, completing designs for over 200 new churchesand church restorations in England alone over the course of his lengthy career. Although the architecture of Pearson’s churches has been studied in somedetail, relatively little research has been undertaken to understand thesignificance of their interiors: the new fixtures and fittings (includingmoveable and portable items) which formed part of each commission, and theparticular role of the architect in their design and execution.

Without thisunderstanding it can be particularly difficult to address conservation issuesalongside the pressure for change and development to meet the needs of moderncongregations and other factors.

This report, which forms part of a widernational project looking at the works of prolific Victorian church architects,presents the results of an assessment covering a selection of Pearson’s churchinteriors dating from the beginning of his independent career in 1843 until hisdeath in 1897.

It is intended to assist decision-makers including HistoricEngland, ecclesiastical authorities and members of the public who wish toensure that the value of Pearson’s church interiors is fully recognised andtaken into account when changes are proposed.

It also serves as a pilot studyoffering general guidance for the development of similar research focused oninteriors designed or commissioned by other prominent 19thcentury architects.