The Mary Ward Centre And Attached Railings

The Mary Ward Centre consists of two terraced houses that have been converted into an advice centre and offices. These buildings date from the early 18th century and were built by W Hawkins. They have undergone alterations in the late 18th century and the 20th century. The exterior is made of darkened yellow stock brick. Number 42 features a stucco band at the first floor level and a tiled mansard roof with dormers, while Number 43 has a slated mansard roof with dormers. Both houses are three storeys high, with attics and basements, and each has three windows; Number 43 includes a one-window return to Old Gloucester Street.

The round-arched doorways are adorned with patterned radial fanlights. Number 42 has reeded pilaster-jambs, sidelights, and a panelled door, while Number 43 features Ionic pilaster-jambs that support a cornice-head and keystone with a mask; the top panels of its door are glazed. The windows have gauged brick flat arches and recessed sashes. Number 42 has an altered central first floor window and cast-iron balconies flanking the windows. Both buildings have parapets, and Number 42 includes a lead rainwater head and pipe.

Inside, the buildings have moulded ceilings and original fireplaces, with a staircase that features twisted balusters. Additionally, there are attached cast-iron railings with torch flambe finials surrounding the areas in front of the houses.