The National Trust Manual of Housekeeping: Care and Conservation of Collections in Historic Houses

This revised edition of the Manual of Housekeeping is essential reading for all those interested in the care of historic houses and their collections, and includes the latest thinking on housekeeping theory and practice. It gives detailed practical guidance on how to care for fragile interiors, maintain decorative fixtures and fittings, and display furnishings and objects within their historic context. In particular, this book highlights the ways in which preventive conservation measures can help reduce the need for expensive repair at a later date. It also explains how to strike the balance between the care and display of historic interiors and the provision for public access. Full of engaging insights into traditional and modern housekeeping techniques, the Manual explains how the nation’s treasure homes have survived until today, and champions their future preservation, using conservation science, professional advice, and environmentally sustainable methods and materials. Written by internationally renowned specialists and published by the National Trust, this book brings togethermany years of practical experience in the care of hundreds of historic houses and their collections.