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INSIGHTS
There are many high street buildings that are no longer suited to their original purpose, but which still have excellent architectural value
and valuable materials and incorporate details such as decorative facades, lime mortar brick pointing, glasswork, and traditional methods of workmanship that are emblematic of their time. These features give older buildings their own identity and character, often making them more interesting and aesthetically attractive than many modern buildings. However, preserving these features needs to be coupled with modern construction methods and materials to ensure the safety and durability of the building.
Structural considerations
The structural integrity of a heritage building must also be carefully considered during a renovation project, to avoid compromising its safety and stability. In some cases, it may be necessary to reinforce or repair certain elements of the building to ensure its structural integrity. This would involve working with a structural engineer to assess the building and develop a plan for any necessary repairs or reinforcements.
Regulations & permits
Heritage buildings are often subject to specific regulations and permit requirements that must be followed during a renovation project. It is important to research and understand these requirements before beginning any work.
This could involve working with local government agencies and heritage preservation groups to obtain the necessary approvals. Any contractors or subcontractors involved in the project need to be knowledgeable about the regulations and requirements that apply.
Project focus
There are many high street buildings that are no longer suited to their original purpose, but which have architectural value. An excellent example of this, and the heritage restoration work undertaken by Chisholm & Winch, is the conservation of a Grade II listed former temperance hall in south east London, plus an additional new build extension. The project turned a piece of Lewisham’s history into a new community hub for the Tab Church. The building had already undergone several reinventions during its lifetime. A tea hall in the 1920s and a snooker hall for several years; it had been left to decay for the past four decades before The Tab took it on. With water seeping through the roof, some of the structure was compromised so the task of refurbishment involved making good the original structure, modifying the building for a new purpose and preserving features that connect the property’s history with its future.
The new build elements bring contemporary community spaces and office areas to the site, and much of the refurbishment delivers contemporary facilities and aesthetics. The main hall includes a state-of-the-art auditorium with a dramatic walk-in baptism pool, a new mezzanine level, and underfloor heating. The new additions have been delivered with respect for the original building. For example, bespoke steelwork makes the
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property more structurally robust, while providing a feature that’s in-keeping with the early 20th century building. A rooflight installed at the apex of the restored roof’s pitch allows natural light to flood the previously gloomy space, using a contemporary feature to showcase the craftsmanship of the original building. And of course, restoring original features and carefully selecting materials to connect old and new is integral to the aims of a project like this, so the roof was stripped and re-built. New trusses and insulation were installed to ensure the building is robust and delivers 21st century thermal performance, while the old trusses were restored and reinstated as a decorative feature and the original slates have been re-used wherever possible.
In order to preserve an original scroll detail, a gable wall was moved back one gridline into the footprint of the building to enable construction of a new brick slip external wall while retaining the feature. Decisions like this may add layers of complexity to the build, but they also ensure that upgrading the heritage building adds to its legacy, without detracting from it.
Collaboration supports success At every stage of heritage renovation project, collaboration between the client, the architect and the contractor ensures that decisions made during the refurbishment of the building capitalise on opportunities to both preserve and improve the property, while tailoring the accommodation to its contemporary use. Whether the building is for residential or commercial use, heritage refurbishment is not about creating museum pieces, but about delivering our future built environment without destroying our past.
Simon Castle is managing director of Chisholm & Winch ADF JUNE 2023
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