sTRATFORD PLACE, CITY OF WESTMINSTER
Structural Renovation and Preservation at 2 Stratford Place, Westminster, London
Introduction
2 Stratford Place, a landmark Georgian property nestled adjacent to Bond Street Underground station in Westminster's renowned retail district, underwent a significant transformation. This project involved a delicate balance of structural renovation, including soft strip-out and demolition, alongside the preservation of historical elements.
Pre-Construction Phase
Prior to initiating work, a detailed survey of existing services was conducted. Method statements were completed and approved, ensuring all procedures met the stringent requirements of the structural and service engineers. The contractor's approach was meticulously planned in conjunction with the architects and engineers' drawings, with any contradictions or uncertainties addressed before commencement.
Demolition and Structural Investigations
The project's demolition scope covered:
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Basement Slab: A 39 square meter demolition and removal to revamp part of the groumnd floor slab.
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Terrace Structure: Clearing 32 square meters of terrace space, including finishes and rooflights.
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Ground Floor and WC Enclosures: Removal of sanitary structures to facilitate reconfiguration.
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Temporary Propping: Support for window during demolition to preserve the facade's integrity.
Strip-Out Works
The strip-out phase involved:
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M&E Supplies: Disconnection and removal across 399 square meters, preparing for full-scale renovation.
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Flooring: Salvaging and storing 230 square meters of flooring planks and 26 square meters of stone flags for reuse.
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Plaster and Skirting: Removing non-retainable plaster and skirting, totaling 95 and 50 meters, respectively.
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Paving: Clearance of 11 square meters of paving from front and rear lightwells.
Removal Details
Key removals included:
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Kitchen and Radiators: Full clearance of kitchen elements and heating units.
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Staircase and Windows: Dismantling of a timber staircase and removal of 21 window sashes and 8 box frames.
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Doors: Extraction of 33 single and one double door units.
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Walls/Partitions: Taking down 44 meters of walls/partitions, with careful attention to making good the junctions.
Restoration and Preservation
In line with the property's listed status, restoration and preservation efforts encompassed:
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Retaining Original Elements: Restoration of original flooring planks, window shutters, and skirting.
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Masonry and Plastering: Masonry repairs and plastering to areas affected by structural work.
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Chequer Flooring: Cleaning and repairs to the entrance's chequer flooring.
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Structural Enhancements
The upgrade involved creating new openings and reinforcing existing structures:
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Opening Formations: New openings in office spaces and roof lights to enhance spatial flow and natural lighting.
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Reinforcement of Structural Elements: Introducing new structural elements to support the revamped layout.
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Contractor's Consideration
The contractor was tasked with accounting for any necessary items not previously specified to ensure the comprehensive execution of the works, ensuring a seamless and thorough renovation process.
Conclusion
The refurbishment of 2 Stratford Place is a showcase of adept craftsmanship, merging modern structural requirements with the conservation of historical character. Completed on time, this project stands as a model for similar heritage-sensitive renovations in historic districts, ensuring the longevity and continued relevance of London's architectural treasures.
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Nestled in the bustling heart of London's retail district, adjacent to Bond Street Underground station and the famed Oxford Street, Stratford Place stands as a testament to Georgian architectural elegance. The project at this listed former mansion required a delicate balance between modern structural investigation and the preservation of historical integrity, all within one of London's most vibrant areas.
Project Scope and Challenges
The primary focus was on conducting a soft strip-out while simultaneously undertaking comprehensive structural investigations. The proximity to key London landmarks and the building's listed status presented unique challenges, necessitating an approach that honored the site's historical significance while ensuring thorough examination of its structural health.
Preservation of Historical Elements
Given the building's listed status, a paramount concern was the protection of its ornate fixtures, fittings, linings, ceiling details, doors, and windows. Specialized techniques and protective measures were employed to shield these historical elements from potential damage during the investigative and strip-out processes.
Structural Investigation Works
The structural investigation was expansive, targeting critical areas of the building to assess its readiness for future refurbishment:
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Lift Shaft Analysis: Examination of the lift shaft area to evaluate its structural soundness and potential integration into the refurbishment plan.
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Roof Area Inspection: Detailed scrutiny of the roof structure to identify any signs of wear, stress, or degradation that could impact the building's integrity.
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Staircase Evaluation: The building's staircase, a significant architectural feature, underwent thorough analysis to ensure its stability and safety for future use.
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Underfloor Assessments: Investigations under the floors provided insights into the foundational strength and any necessary reinforcements required for the planned refurbishments.
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Execution with Care and Precision
The execution of the project demanded a meticulous approach, blending advanced structural examination techniques with a deep respect for the building's historical attributes. The team's expertise in navigating the complexities of listed buildings was crucial in maintaining the delicate balance between preservation and investigation.
Collaboration with Structural Engineers
A close collaboration with structural engineers was vital throughout the project. Their expertise guided the investigative efforts, ensuring that each assessment provided valuable data to inform the upcoming refurbishment works. This partnership was instrumental in devising strategies that respected the building's architectural heritage while preparing it for a new chapter.
Conclusion
The soft strip-out and structural investigations at Stratford Place exemplify the intricate dance between modern engineering and historical preservation. The project's success was rooted in a deep appreciation for London's architectural legacy, coupled with a forward-looking approach to building renovation. As Stratford Place prepares for its next phase, the project stands as a model for future endeavors in listed buildings, demonstrating that respect for the past and visions for the future can coexist harmoniously.
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