"stone quarried stonemasons restoration"

The historic restoration of one of London's most iconic locations, Bush House, previously occupied by the BBC World Service for 70 Years. Working with JRA, Milliken installed: Classrooms - Arctic Survey, Isotherm / Corridors - Culture Canvas and Custom Design / Office Areas - Omni-Admit One and in the Lecture Theatre - Clerkenwell, Circle Top View.

To maximise the value of the tree planting,the pits were used as storm water attenuation and treatment pits, taking water from the carriageway, passing it through a stone layer on the top of the tree pit and then filtering it down through the Arborsoil Hydro soil mix provided for the root growth. The water then transferred through a clean stone layer to an underdrain to a storm water drain. This method of conveyance gives an acceptable level of pollutant removal and slows the water down so that the existing drainage network can cope with the increasingly violent storm events.

Twinfix have been working their magic to help Network Rail restore Kettering Railway Station to its former glory. They have been helped in this project by the Railway Heritage Trust (RHT). The Railway Heritage Trust was created in 1985 by British Rail on the advice of railway heritage campaigners following the destruction of Derby Midland Station. The RHT is an independent company which assists the operational railway in its preservation and upkeep of listed buildings and structures. Network Rail and National Highways (Historic Railways Estate) sponsor the work of the RHT which currently holds an annual budget for restoration work, ensuring that high quality and the best materials are used to restore and preserve assets. Kettering station was opened in May 1857 by the Midland Railway, on a line linking the Midland to the Great Northern Railway at Hitchin. The Midland later gained its own London terminus at St Pancras Station. In 1857 the leather trade was in recession with over half of Kettering’s population on poor relief. The railway enabled the town to sell its products over a much wider area and restored the town’s prosperity. Originally the station had a single platform but in 1879 the station was quadrupled, and three new platforms were built. The Midland Railway commissioned waiting rooms, cast-iron columns, spandrels, and canopies for the new platforms to match the original 1857 design by Charles Henry Driver. In the 1970s, the glass canopies became a maintenance headache for British Rail, who proposed removing the glazing along with the cast-iron column heads and replacing it with sheeting. Thankfully, Kettering Civic Society intervened and saved the canopies and columns. 50 years later these important architectural elements needed some refurbishment but faced another threat. The Midland Mainline electrification programme meant that structural changes would be needed to the canopy structures to allow the overhead line electrical equipment to be installed above the tracks. Once again, the canopies were under threat but this time it was Twinfix which came to the rescue. Twinfix, the Warrington based pioneers of polycarbonate were the specified experts in the Network Rail business plan for the station refurbishment. Having already helped bring new life and importantly light into old stations as part of refurbishment work, Network Rail stipulated using Twinfix’s polycarbonate roofing panels and their mounting system to keep the overall aesthetics of the station but add a much-needed resilience to the canopies.  Twinfix recommended their Multi-Link-Panel glazing with 6mm solid clear polycarbonate to help the restoration project. The Multi-Link-Panel is an innovative, modular system that is incredibly quick to install and outperforms more traditional systems in terms of cost, performance, and appearance. Multi-Link-Panel canopies consist of pre-assembled modular glazing panels, manufactured to size for each individual project. Each panel comprises aluminium structural bars that are glazed with lightweight, yet tough, solid polycarbonate. The aluminium can be powder coated to a range of colours for a rust and maintenance-free life. As panels are pre-assembled in a controlled factory environment possible contamination and errors in installation caused by on-site cutting of the glazing sheet are avoided. These properties can result in saving two thirds of the time taken to install traditional split bar glazing systems. This can save on labour costs and drastically reduce any necessary premises shutdown time required while work is carried out overhead.  The team at Everlast roofing who installed the Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel were a great partner in this installation process and this partnership resulted in a great finished roof.Handling during installation is easier and safer than with traditional glass systems as panels are constructed from materials that are both strong and light in weight. The reduction in weight compared with glass systems has the added benefit of lowering the overall weight of the roof construction, decreasing the stresses on the existing fabric of a building, especially important where a roof refurbishment is being undertaken. It is this weight reduction that removed the need for reinforcement of the original columns and resulted in the restoration remaining faithful to the original design. As Twinfix manufacture the multi-link panel system they are in an ideal position to be able to help with designing out potential problems. Each roofing system is unique and bespoke, so Twinfix took advantage of their deep understanding of their product and the legislation covering such projects and added access hatches to the canopies which allow access above the glazing for maintenance, finally curing that 50-year-old headache. Vicky Evans, Director at Twinfix said; “The result of the restoration is truly breath-taking. Kettering Station is now awash with natural light and the platforms are a light airy place to wait for a train and shelter from the elements.” Tim Hedley-Jones, Director of the Railway Heritage Trust, says of the project: “It’s a great example where the use of modern materials helps to protect and sustain a truly beautiful historic station. Our grants have helped Network Rail to preserve Kettering Station using Twinfix technology, to continue to make it fit for purpose for today’s rail passengers.” So, if Charles Henry Driver were able to see the station today, he would instantly feel a sense of familiarity and be proud of the restoration work on this piece of railway treasure. CREDIT: Photographs taken by Paul Childs, Spheroview

The Strand Aldwych is a busy public area well-known as a procession route between Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral. The area was historically plagued by traffic and pollution, so people were reluctant to dwell for long periods of time.The newly pedestrianised area with stone walls already in place needed public seating outside St Clement Danes Church. Coordinating the wall shape with the stone underneath was imperative, and access was needed to the lighting drivers through the platforms since the stone underneath is illuminated with LEDs. With this in mind, our design team worked collaboratively to develop a bespoke version of our modular RailRoad seating design, based on the principles where interchangeable parts can be easily removed or replaced. A RailRoad wall-top solution was created with a custom curve to match the stone walls, and the platforms have removable hatches for access when needed.The bespoke RailRoad seating solution is manufactured from our triple processed (recycled) steel and powder coated in a distinct metallic copper finish - while the iroko timbers were coated with UV protective finish in teak to maintain their natural look. This project focused on improving air quality, and our AKRI retaining planters were ideal for bringing green into the space. Their flexibility also allowed for matching the geometry of the adjacent stone benches and roads. In order to prevent damage, welded anti skates were incorporated into the solution.The project not only provides health and well-being benefits with the new public landscaped areas, it will preserve the historic character and for the first time allow people to appreciate the nearby listed buildings. The new inclusive seating spaces for people to mix in are seen to be well used as people can enjoy their lunch, meet with friends and colleagues and simply enjoy a sense of community.

Natural stone surface in bound construction for the vehicle entrance road and main entrance pedestrian space to the new Grange University Hospital.

This 12 year old, sea-facing property suffered from pink algae growth affecting the textured through-colour render and copings stones. There was a leak to the external staircase and the balcony downspout, which caused staining and what appeared to be salt efflorescence; this area required attention prior to decoration. KEIM Royalan was specified on the sea-facing elevation to protection the property from harsh weather conditions and give a long lasting, colour-fast and decorative matt finish. KEIM Lotexan was applied onto the coping stones to help shed water and reduce algae growth.

In the west district of the Dutch town of Wallwijk an innovative multifunctional structure was recently built, combining residential and commercial spaces in a single project of contemporary design.Atlas Concorde outdoor porcelain stoneware tiles were selected for the architectural design, providing the look of natural stone and excellent technical properties.The Dutch complex includes private homes, apartments and a health and wellness center.The outdoor spaces and walkways in the green areas of the modern Dutch structure feature Trust 2 cm thick stone-effect porcelain stoneware tiles. LASTRA 20mm is the Atlas Concorde outdoor project that includes a wide selection of surfaces perfect for both commercial and residential contemporary outdoor spaces.For the Koetshuis project, the LASTRA 20mm version of the Trust collection in Titanium shades combines the extraordinary aesthetic power of the look and detail of faithfully reproduced split stone and exceptional technical performance. Thanks to Atlas Concorde, the outdoor walkways in the heart of the garden and the outside area surrounding the hotel are safe surfaces, both slip-resistant and resistant to weathering. 

Installed Integra 4000 single & multi-leaf riser doors and Vision 8000 stone clad riser doors at St James's Square.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Portland Stone Y4312I and Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts Coated: Cladding panels, Balconies Fabricator: Sapphire

VISION 8000 Non fire rated doors were installed at Hamad International Airport.These were a bespoke specification to feature in the stone tiled walls.

We created this sleek, modern pool project using our Cambria Grigio Porcelain Paving and Copings crafted in our Oxfordshire Stone Workshop.

A modern, sleek porcelain pool project, built using Cambria Grigio Italian Paving and Pool Copings, crafted in our Oxfordshire stone workshop.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Stone Effect Y4310I Parts coated: Unitised cladding panels Architect: SOM Fabricator: Metalline Applicator: Vertik-Al

A recent project in a rural location near Sandwich, Kent involved a creative restoration of a former engine shed to provide five spacious homes that boast a high-spec contemporary interior, while retaining the character and appeal of the original building. The developers opted for our Featherboard fence panels; a timeless style of fencing that satisfies the need for privacy with its simple, solid design.

This significant project was the restoration and extension of a 1976 Basil Spence building in the City of London. This original structure was designed for The Salters, an 800-year-old livery company. It combines post-war bold brutalism with a world of ritual and tradition and its associated memorabilia.InterLace designed, manufactured and installed electric roof blinds for the light and airy atrium, and hand-operated roller blinds in offices.

A grade II Listed building with a Renaissance-style frontage has become the latest award winning project to feature Proteus cladding. Although Spanish City closed in 2002, it has remained a local beacon and so became the focal point of North Tyneside Council’s £36m seafront masterplan, undergoing a £10m restoration and regeneration to bring it back to its former glory.

The £1m centrepiece in the restoration of a historic park in Lancashire has been completed, incorporating innovative use of the MX curtain walling system from Technal. The dramatic sculptural pavilion in Avenham Park was the winning design in an RIBA competition. The building has a strong geometric design, which includes a complex zinc-clad ‘saw tooth’ roof and extensive use of timber, aluminium and glass.

TRC Windows were awarded the contract by Oakdean Construction, for the supply, design and installation of fully glazed and factory finished Timber Sash Easy Clean windows for this £100m plus prestigious renovation and convertion into super-luxury apartments, due to their many years of experience and expertise in supplying Heritage replacement windows for large scale historic and Grade II listed buildings restoration projects.

Our coatings look after the world’s most iconic and acclaimed buildings. Among them is the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Since its redevelopment in 2011, the principal public gallery in Auckland, New Zealand has won 23 awards and counting, including the prestigious World Architecture Festival's 2013 World Building of the Year. The redevelopment plan aimed at restoring and preserving heritage elements and sensitively combining them with 21st-century design. This included earthquake-proofing and heritage restoration of the 1887 and 1916 components of the main building and the addition of new, contemporary elements that increased display space by 50 per cent. One of the most distinctive features of the new building is its roof design, which forms a series of fine ‘tree-like’ canopies that define and cover the forecourt, atrium and gallery areas.Our coatings complemented this architectural challenge of blending old with new. A coatings system comprising of Interzinc 42, Intergard 251 and Interthane 990 was used to protect structural steel, while Interchar 963 was used to provide essential protection from the effects of fire.

Apex Heritage Cast Iron rainwater system from leading specialist Alumasc was commissioned as part of the £800 million extension and restoration of St Pancras International, London.The extension and interior of the station comprised all the modern facilities expected in Britain’s most advanced station, however, work on the oldest Grade 1 listed part of the station called for the faithful and painstaking restoration of the gothic red brick façade, to retain the original detail of George Gilbert Scott’s design.Existing rainwater systems, despite being almost 150 years old, were still in use. As part of the redevelopment project English Heritage insisted that any new rainwater details must faithfully reproduce the original patterns of the Victorian rainwater goods used when the station was first built. Alumasc worked closely with the main contractors to produce bespoke moulds, creating cast iron replicas of all the existing pipes and hoppers to take away rainwater from the vast single span roof, which is still the largest of its type in the world.

The construction of more than 40,000 square metres of pedestrian and lightly trafficked surface in natural stone formed part of this major transformation of Hull City Centre.

Almost ten years since introducing the CON4 100mm conservation we are now adding to our collection of conservation vents with the CON6 which is our biggest yet. With a massive 150mm diameter spigot and a free area that is 50% larger than the next size down, it's sure to be a hit with many property restorers looking to add plenty of ventilation with a stunning looking vent that will last a lifetime.

In 2020, a significant milestone was reached when the CEO of Bluestone National Park Resort obtained the necessary approvals to undertake the restoration of Blackpool Mill, an exquisite Georgian property boasting a rich history spanning 210 years. The restoration endeavour amounted to a substantial investment of £3 million, allocated towards the preservation, comprehensive restoration, and grand revitalisation of this historic gem.How we helpedFast forward to October 2022, Towelrads received a communication inquiring about the availability of a product matching the aesthetic of a 19th Century mill that had recently undergone an extensive renovation. Immediately we introduced them to our Windsor Column radiators that perfectly complemented the buildings aesthetics. Within the same month the creation of design concepts that incorporated our Windsor Column radiators were pieced together, coupled with column feet and Brushed Nickel Manual Angled Valves.Capitalising on our diverse palette of RAL colours, a decision was made to employ three distinct shades, each tailored to a specific area. The main restaurant and restrooms were adorned with the our Anthracite RAL 7016, while the Private Dining room, aptly named the River Room, exuded a captivating Pigeon Blue RAL 5014. The Miller Study Private Dining area, on the other hand, showcased the sophisticated Chocolate Brown RAL 8017 Gloss, effectively enveloping each space in a unique ambiance.Standing as an architectural marvel, this venue now boasts a state-of-the-art kitchen, two dedicated floors for guest dining, an elevated banqueting section, and exclusive private function rooms. Since opening its doors, it has become the talk of the town, attracting a deluge of inquiries. Our role in this endeavour fills us with immense pride, as we contributed to a project of profound significance to the local community, actively participating in the preservation of a cherished piece of history.

Burlington House has been a home of the Royal Academy of Arts, the oldest art school in Britain, since 1867. Over the years this canonic site has seen impressive additions by a number of acclaimed architects. Continuing this rich history, in 2018, David Chipperfield Architects completed a major redevelopment of the building, delivering a brand new home to the RA.InOpera Group supplied and installed the terrazzo floors for the major parts of this new space, including Benjamin West Lecture theatre, Cast Corridor, Collection Gallery, hallways and staircases leading to the galleries, and public restrooms.In 2001, the RA purchased Burlington Gardens, the building that sits right behind the Burlington House. Since then, they’ve embarked on a bold masterplan to join the two buildings together for the first time in history.The project was undertaken by, none other than, David Chipperfield Architects. The practice has won more than 100 international awards and citations for design excellence, including the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2007 for The Museum of Modern Literature in Marbach, Germany.With the bold reconfiguration, they’ve created new workshops, library and more studio space for the Schools. Existing spaces, which were built in 1870, were restored to maximize space and light, with improved access and circulation.The requirements for the floor materials prioritised high-traffic endurance, slip-resistance and design that will blend in with the existing interiors of the buildings, which are rich with natural stone and classical elements.For this project, we supplied custom-made cement-based terrazzo with two types of finishes. The polished finish was installed for the gallery spaces, and the honed for the areas with more traffic. The material guarantees even colouration and consistent texture throughout the entire floor area. For the Benjamin West Lecture Theatre, staircases were carved out from custom-sized terrazzo blocks.

Artform Urban Furniture was appointed by Robertson Construction to provide a complete range of street furniture elements including seating, planters, cycle parking, and bollards to the external space of a newly built Care Centre and Library in the historic market town of Belper. We offered extensive assistance throughout the project including attendance at design meetings looking at materiality, cost, and installation demands which changed a number of times throughout the project.Although largely a new build, the existing façades of a former Thornton’s Factory have been retained, refurbished, and carefully incorporated into the scheme maintaining considerations of the UNESCO World Heritage Site status of the area.Artforms' premium selection of street furniture perpetuates the careful consideration for the site heritage as well as offering an inviting space for the public and residents of the home. As well as providing space for socialising and natural splashes of colour with plants, the concrete seating and planters echo the light stone of the new section of the development.The inclusion of Moka Bollards and Cubes in Corten provides elegant seating and pedestrian safety whilst coordinating with the restored red-bricked factory façades. The Corten products were supplied with a unique seal coating that significantly reduces the risk of any leaching - ensuring the surrounding paving maintains its clean light colour.The symmetry in the positioning and layout of these elements creates an inviting space leading to the building’s entrance.Finally, a shelter and a number of cycle stands have been provided to ensure people traveling to the space on bikes have secure parking spaces. The new Ada Belfield Centre & Belper Library was previously an unused and derelict building, now it is a space to offer high-quality care that is connected to the local community. Events can now take place bringing residents and members of the public together by utilising the new external space as well as the Library, which also features a café.

A chapel was first built at Swan Hill in the town of Shrewsbury in 1767. In 1868, this was demolished and replaced with the current building; schoolrooms were then added in 1880. Charters Property Ltd who specialise in property development, consultancy and project management, recently purchased the deconsecrated church and have transformed the building into a prestigious development of four fabulous homes.Sensitivity was key when renovating the property and the majority of the original features have been preserved. Original stone walls, lintels and cills have been repaired and impeccably replaced. The walls and roofs have been insulated and energy saving measures implemented to create a comfortable, efficient living environment.Although it was possible to restore some of the original fenestration, double glazed replacement steel windows were still required throughout the building. Clement were thrilled to manufacture these new steel windows and doors. Various Clement ranges were used to meet the different criteria required for the project. For example, the Brooking range was used for the beautiful arched head windows on the front elevation as it would best replicate the originals which would have been silicone fronted. EB16 was used for other windows where silicone fronting was not required and W20 was used to make the steel doors. In total over thirty individual windows were specified, all in various shapes and sizes.Clement Conservation Rooflights were also specified, which bring masses of light in through the beautiful, high ceilings.James Charters, Director of Charters Property said “We were very pleased with the attention to detail and finish of the steel windows, Clement took ownership of their section of the project and were able to deliver a complex scheme on time and to a very good standard. They remained client focussed throughout and we will happily use their service again.”Photography: Photos supplied by Charters Property and taken by Kate Sanders Photography

Following an £8m transformation, the Grade II listed Leighton House has reopened to the public. The former home of artist Frederick Leighton, a previous president of the Royal Academy, the building is famed for its opulent interiors, filled with art and treasures acquired by Leighton on his travels. Architects BDP restored and adapted the historic building to include a new entrance, gallery, learning centre and café with significantly improved, step-free access throughout the museum. The sensitive restoration has both preserved the original integrity of the house and transformed the way it is used by visitors, meeting the needs of a modern-day museum. The restoration and new additions to Leighton House sit in complete harmony with the original interiors. The use of high-quality design and materials throughout reflects the rich visual language created by Leighton. Junckers Black Oak flooring, specified for its rich, dark tones, forms a warm and tactile backdrop to several areas. David Artis, Architect Director, BDP described the design process: ‘It’s about subtle interventions that don’t detract from the overall legibility of the building.’ Junckers Approved Flooring Contractor PICA Floorings installed Black Oak Boulevard, a 185mm wide plank floor in several areas of the museum, including as treads and risers for the bespoke helical staircase spanning three flights. The staircase installation included stainless steel non-slip inserts on every tread and elsewhere the Black Oak flooring was fitted over underfloor heating which was incorporated within the subfloor after close consultation at the design stage. In addition, PICA Floorings made bespoke access hatches required by the museum to enable moving artworks from one area to another. To ensure minimal waste during the installation process, materials were delivered to site in stages. Restoring and adapting existing buildings forms an important part of designing and building in a more sustainable way. By upgrading older properties and making them net zero carbon ready, historic and heritage buildings are safeguarded and ensured a sustainable future. Junckers solid hardwood flooring, a material which is naturally low in embodied carbon, forms an integral part of the project with its proven long lifespan. Expected to last well over 60 years, the floor forms part of the design to future-proof the museum.The importance of high ethical standards is often a key objective for materials sourcing, particularly for publicly funded projects. BDP was able to rely on Junckers’ sustainably sourced and manufactured wood flooring complete with sustainability credentials including EPDs, FSC®, PEFCTM and Indoor Climate certification as well as a BRE Green Guide rating of A+.

630 Sash Windows Restored at Grade II Listed Liverpool LandmarkKEY FEATURES: COMMERCIAL, GRADE II LISTED, SASH WINDOWS, LARGE DEVELOPMENT, RENOVATION, VENTROLLA PERIMETER SEALING SYSTEM (VPSS), VICTORIANThe Grade II* listed Port of Liverpool building was built in the early 1900s and makes up one-third of the “Three Graces” based at Liverpool’s Pier Head, a UNESCO World Heritage site.It was extensively damaged during the Blitz in 1941, and in 2008 we were proud to form part of the major internal and external restoration project, worth £8.5 million, by (then) owner, Liverpool’s biggest commercial landlord company, Downing.The building is home to some of the most prestigious companies in Merseyside, including Rathbones Investment Bank, and is one of the largest projects ever undertaken by Ventrolla.The 630 windows were renovated and upgraded by Ventrolla using the Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS), thus draught-proofing the windows, as well as renovating all the rotten exposed timbers and replacing timbers where necessary. The VPSS system has been independently tested (Class 3 of BS 6375-1) to withstand winds of up to 71mph, something which will come in useful against the harsh sea winds experienced by this building.A spokesperson for Ventrolla, said:“At Ventrolla we are committed to renovating historic buildings in a way that allows them to retain their character and be energy efficient. The Port of Liverpool Building is a striking landmark on the Liverpool riverside and we are delighted to play our part in its regeneration.”Ian Orton, a Director of Downing, said:“Ventrolla’s work is part of a £10 million restoration programme that Downing is undertaking to restore the Port of Liverpool Building to its former glory and enhance its appeal as a contemporary office space.”Now owned by Amtrak Real Estate (who purchased the building in 2015), the Port of Liverpool building remains an iconic part of the docks in Liverpool, the design of which was the result of a competition for local Architects to submit designs for the new building in 1900 and the first prize was £300. The winning design was created by Sir Arnold Thornley and F.B Hobbs in collaboration with Briggs and Wolstenholme.The building has also had more than its fair share of fame, being used as a film set in several productions, including The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes & Foyles War (TV series).Ventrolla offers a bespoke renovation service for timber sliding sash and casement windows as well as timber doors. Ventrolla has its central office in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with additional offices throughout the UK and Ireland.

Over 80 of Howe Green’s 7500 Series Floor Access Covers were specified by architect Chapman Taylor LLP for the Westgate Oxford development. The floor access covers were required to provide safe and easy access to essential underfloor services in heavily trafficked pedestrian areas. The covers have been installed throughout Westgate by specialist stone contractor Vetter UK. The covers have been infilled with various types of stone to blend seamlessly with different hard floor finishes across multiple locations. Being positioned in such a public place, the 7500 Series covers are tamper resistant providing a secure access solution.

We installed new male and female washrooms on four levels and created a new staff shower and changing area in the basement of this recently refurbished office. Our full height, flush front Alto toilet cubicles and Concerto duct panels were finished in the same dark walnut straight grain real wood veneer. The integrated duct panel system is easy-to-clean and allows ease of access for future repairs or maintenance. The crisp white Zodiac stone vanities complete the high specification design. The staff shower and changing area features white Zodiac stone vanities plus our bespoke locker system.

The refurbishment of 30 Panton Street has created an outstanding mixed-use development in London. In the entrance hall, full height dark umber anodised wall panels stand out against the polished stone walls and floors. Guiding visitors to upper floors, the aluminium panels have unique integrated lighting strips adding a warm glow to the foyer. Over the office security gates, pale umber anodised SAS200 leads visitors to the stairs, lifts and upper levels. Both the wall panels and ceiling system have a flush, concealed grid echoing the clean lines of the stone wall and floor panels.

Find out more about our work at Grantley Hall in North Yorkshire, which used the ROOFTRAK™ IFP as the base for some stunning natural stone cladding.

We have recently received a lovely case study from a customer that used Polytrol to revive their black composite front door. As you can see, Lisa’s door had become dull from pollution, rain and UV rays. She wanted to bring it back to its original shine and also try to mask some of the scratches.We recommended that she use our colour restorer, Polytrol.

Timber box sash windows from the Mumford & Wood Conservation™ range have been specified for a stunning landmark restoration project in North London, in the Borough of Haringey. Situated in the Highgate Conservation area this 1916 Edwardian Baroque Grade II listed building has been converted to 2, 3 and 4-bedroom luxurious contemporary-lifestyle residential units by Furnival House Developments Limited.

The Cooperage is located on a former industrial site in Central London and is believed to have been built in the early 1900s. Following an unsympathetic earlier restoration in the 1990s, Chris Dyson Architects were invited in 2011 to prepare a scheme for the extension and complete renovation of the property, turning it into a spectacular five bedroom family house. The Cooperage has been nominated for the RIBA House of the Year 2017 long list. Photography by Peter Landers.

Background:Canterbury’s Art Museum and library, The Beaney Instituteis a Grade II Listed, Victorian building dating back to 1900.The Institute was granted £11.6m by the Heritage LotteryGrant to conserve, repair and restore the existing buildingplus create an extension that would double the size of theInstitute in order to provide better facilities to the museum,art gallery and library.The Solution:Limelite plaster from the Heritage range was used torestore and protect the internal walls throughoutthe Institute. Limelite Renovating Plaster was appliedto control and minimise dampness that can occur inolder properties. High Impact Finishing Plaster was thenapplied, creating a BBA approved plaster system allowingthe walls to breathe while protecting them from damage,maintaining a heritage-style appearance.The Outcome:The Limelite plaster system was the perfect solutionfor The Beaney Institute. Important pieces of art andmuseum artefacts are protected from condensationand salt transfer from the walls.This modern solution works sympathetically with thefabric of the building providing the aesthetic finishexpected of a building of its character whilst also beingdurable enough to withstand the high footfall of thevisiting public.