Details

Name

Acton Surgey Ltd

Brief Biography

about 1920–40, English

Occupation

Art and antique dealers

Description

Established by Murray Adams-Acton (1886–1971) and Frank Surgey (1893–?), the firm specialized in architectural renovation and interior decoration, including sourcing and buying objects for clients. Both men had trained in and worked for the eminent decorating firm of White, Allom, before setting up in business in London, advertising in 'The Connoisseur' until the early 1940s. Their letterhead from 1928 lists addresses as 1 Amberley Road, Paddington, W9; Paris, which may have been a postal address; and Crews Hill. By 1930 the shop was at 3 Bruton Street, W1. Clients were also invited to see stock displayed at Waycroft Abbey, near Axminster.
Major commissions included the refurbishment of the interiors of Hutton Castle, Berwickshire, for William Burrell, for which Frank Surgey was the main contractor. He provided furniture, stone chimneypieces, oak panelling, doors, and new furnishings from radiator grills and curtains to lampshades. The work took seven years to complete, with the final invoice totalling £58,000.