Now, As Then

WINDSOR CASTLE

Since its foundation in 1904, Wandsworth’s work has illuminated the world’s most revered interiors, from royal residences to iconic seats of democracy, finance, and trade.​

In the early days of electrification, Wandsworth worked in many landmark buildings. Now, in the twenty-first century, with these sites undergoing refurbishment, Wandsworth’s quality and craftsmanship remain in high demand. The company’s high-tech updates and sympathetic re-servicing unite respect for the past with vision for the future. ​

At Windsor Castle, little has changed in pictures taken 120 years apart. Inside the castle, however, the fittings have evolved with the passing decades while retaining historic integrity.

THE SAVOY HOTEL​

Each time Wandsworth begins a heritage project, it undertakes an audit in consultation with archivists, historians, and advisers. The aim is to replace only what is necessary and desirable from products on site – but to create the most sensitive reset; to preserve identity, enhance viability, and meet sustainability goals. ​

These photographs of London’s Savoy Hotel, show that while modes of transportation might have changed from horse-powered to battery-powered, the impeccable standards of grand hospitality inside the hotel endure alongside Wandsworth’s fittings, through the years.​

THE BANK OF ENGLAND

At the forefront of British expertise, the Bank of England operates at the heart of London as much today as before the First World War. Wandsworth has fitted switches and sockets inside its walls from the earliest days of electricity and continues to do so today. ​

Clients agree that Wandsworth’s commitment to creating tailor-made solutions sets it apart from its competitors, and that it delivers to the highest standards. No problem is too small or too big for its team. “Off-the-peg accessories – no matter how great the quality – just aren’t always suitable,’ says Tom Beresford. 

THE PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Wandsworth’s engineers combine the latest technical skills with a degree of detective work where necessary, to create bespoke solutions to tricky problems.​

The company’s team get great satisfaction knowing they have done these iconic buildings justice, and that the fittings will last for decades to come. Their craft echoes that of the technicians employed by Wandsworth since it was founded. Today, as it has since Edwardian times, Wandsworth fits the most hallowed spaces in the world, like the Houses of Parliament, right, the refurbished Big Ben lit as a beacon of continuity.

“What’s interesting when walking around these buildings is seeing the Wandsworth pieces that were installed decades before. It makes me smile that we are part of the brickwork. When you realise our ties to these buildings, it becomes clear that we are the only people who could do this.”

– Tom Beresford, Wandsworth Group Director of Operations​

Wandsworth’s design and manufacturing processes have changed little for decades, taking place at their factory in Woking, Surrey, 31 miles from London. Wandsworth is proud to be one of the only companies making bespoke products of this kind, to this standard, in the UK. ​

The company employs 130 people whose skills range from client liaison to machine operation, technical drawing, electrical engineering, and quality control. Sales advisers and engineers also travel globally to sites including Dubai, Doha, Rabat, and Mumbai, working on the most iconic buildings of the future.​

“There’s no other electrical fittings company in the world with a stronger connection to London’s great buildings. It’s a privilege to work on such treasured landmarks.”

– Adam Sherry, Managing Director, Wandsworth Group​​

As Wandsworth celebrates its 120th year, the company continues to play a significant part in the past, present and future stories of these legendary buildings, both in the UK and around the world.​

“I’m proud that Wandsworth’s tradition of heritage work sets us apart from our competitors, and that we’ve been able to build on our reputation over the years.” says Adam Sherry. “These grand buildings are a much-loved part of our history, and here at Wandsworth we care very much about their future.”