St Albans, Museum and Gallery

J&C Joel was commissioned to design, manufacture, and install a bespoke blackout drapery solution for six large windows at St Albans Museum and Gallery, located within the historic Town Hall.

Since reopening in 2018, the venue has become a major cultural destination, hosting exhibitions, events, and learning programmes featuring both contemporary art and light-sensitive heritage artefacts. Effective light control was therefore essential to support conservation requirements and enhance the visitor experience.

Working within a listed historic building presented significant challenges, with strict conservation requirements limiting installation methods and requiring the preservation of original architectural features.

To address this, J&C Joel developed a bespoke, non-invasive pattress system that created secure fixing points without damaging the historic structure. Six custom blackout drapes were installed using Silent Gliss track systems, chosen for their smooth operation, reliability, and minimal visual impact. The finished installation delivers complete blackout capability while integrating seamlessly into the building’s historic interior.

Key Features & Benefits

• Bespoke blackout solution for six large heritage windows
• Non-invasive installation method suitable for listed buildings
• Complete light exclusion for sensitive exhibitions and artefacts
• Silent Gliss track systems for smooth, discreet operation
• Premium fabric finish combining functionality with elegant aesthetics
• Seamless integration with the historic character of the venue
• Enhanced flexibility for exhibitions, events, and immersive experiences