THE curtain has lifted on a "mind-blowing" renovation of one of Derby's finest historical buildings.
Grade I listed St Helen's House, in King Street, has hit the headlines in the past for falling into decay.
But people were invited to tour the newly-renovated three-storey mansion on Saturday.
Historian Maxwell Craven gave the guided tour of the building, which is now home to accountants Smith Cooper.
Mr Craven said: "I'm absolutely knocked back by the renovation – it's mind-blowing. It has been a struggle for years, so for it to be renovated so well is a bonus.
"It is one of Derby's six grade I listed buildings. It has been in the news for years because it has been in distress. It is terrific and an ornament to the city."
St Helen's House was built for Alderman John Gisborne by architect Joseph Pickford between 1766 and 1767 and stood in 80 acres of parkland.
It was bought by William Strutt, the eldest son of hosier Jedediah Strutt, in 1801, and eventually passed to Derby School in 1860.
It became the Joseph Wright School of Art and, from 1972, was used as an adult education centre.
It stood empty from 2004 until April this year, when Smith Cooper moved in.
It is said to be the finest and largest 18th-century townhouse to survive in any city outside London.
Carol Jones worked there for 17 years when it was used for education.
The 63-year-old from Duffield said: "I was a part-time administrator from 1987. We used to hold classes in things like cookery, singing, knitting and sewing.
"It was a majestic place, a beautiful place to work. I used to feel special when I walked into the building."
Bill Dobson, also attended the event. The 86-year-old, of Highfield Road, in Derby, worked as a warden at the centre for three years. He said: "The building looks so much better now – it's beautiful."
Paul Duffin, senior partner at Smith Cooper, said: "It's an uplifting and inspiring place to work.
"We are very privileged to be here and I feel a sense of responsibility in terms of looking after it and, on some occasions, making it available for the public to see."
