21CBS was appointed to undertake extensive conservation and refurbishment works at the Grade II* listed Victoria Art Gallery in Bath. The project required the replacement of lantern roof glazing, structural timber repairs, installation of a new man-safe fall-arrest system and the refurbishment of an adjoining first-floor learning and teaching space.
Delivery presented several challenges, including working within a sensitive listed interior that required comprehensive protection throughout the works.
The team also had to maintain public access to the ground-floor galleries during construction, manage restricted city-centre logistics with no direct loading area or on-site storage, and safely remove suspected asbestos-containing glazing rope.
A carefully planned conservation-led approach was adopted to protect the historic fabric of the building while delivering the required upgrades. Close coordination of works enabled roof repairs, structural strengthening and refurbishment activities to be completed safely within an occupied public building.
Opening-up inspections were undertaken to identify the extent of timber repairs required, allowing targeted strengthening works to be designed and installed. Particular attention was given to protecting sensitive gallery spaces, maintaining visitor access and managing material deliveries within the constraints of the city-centre location.
The project combined essential roof repairs and structural improvements with the creation of a modern educational facility within the gallery.
The roof & structure works included:
Specialist temporary works designs to facilitate the works whilst preserving the historic fabric of the building
Removal of existing glazing and replacement with new specialist solar and UV protective patent glazing to protect the artwork within the gallery
Renewal of slate roof coverings and leadwork
Reconstruction of timber vented apex above the patent glazing
Installation of motorised louvre ventilation to improve the ambient temperatures for the galley and artwork
Installation of a compliant man-safe system to support future maintenance access
Refurbishment of condemned historic roof access equipment to bring back into use
The learning space refurbishment works included:
Full strip-out and reconfiguration of adjoining rooms to form a new educational facility
Installation of new joinery, flooring, acoustic panels and a kitchenette
Upgrade to modern LED lighting to improve energy efficiency, brightness and teaching usability
Refurbishment of ceilings, plasterwork and decorations throughout
Installation of acoustic baffles
Installation of a new frameless glass door
Fire-compliant joinery upgrades
The completed project delivered a robustly repaired and watertight roof, improving the long-term protection of the historic building. Structural repairs and strengthening works enhanced the integrity of the roof structure, while the new man-safe system provides safe future access for maintenance teams.
Internally, the refurbished learning and teaching space now offers a bright, modern and energy-efficient environment ready for community engagement and educational activities. All works were completed to conservation standards and fully aligned with the requirements of the building's listed status.
Tel: 0117 373 8696
Email: Info@21cbs.co.uk
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