Issue 42 summer 24 web - Flipbook - Page 75
approach entailed fairly radical intervention within parts
of Wren’s structure, including the formation of openings
through the central spine wall.
The Royal Hospital Chelsea has not survived easily, but
through foresight it has negotiated a constantly changing
world. We are proud to have been part of the team that
has adapted Sir Christopher Wren’s wonderful buildings
for 21st century use and, we hope, well into the future.
Marcus Binney, historian and author of many books on
preservation of Britain’s architectural heritage, appropriately wrote: To a generation faced with the challenge of finding
new uses for historic buildings that have outlived their original
Introducing Services
A major concern was the introduction of extensive
plumbing services through the building: ensuite wet
rooms, radiators within berths and a misting fire suppression system. In conjunction with skillful design by both
services consultant and structural engineer, this was
achieved with minimal intervention to the historic
fabric.
The long corridors have a simple repetitive structure of
primary beams, 300x300mm, spanning from the spine
wall to the external wall, with secondary beams between,
supporting ceiling and floor joists. Repositioning of those
secondary beams against the spine wall created sufficient
space to run a riser between spine and wet room.
The vertical and horizontal risers all interconnect,
supplying each room with hot and cold water, drainage,
soil stack, heating and misting systems. The risers also
serve all floors. With this simple and extremely effective
structural design, services were provided to all Long Wards
buildings, without affecting any of the primary beams (Fig
5 opposite ). Dropped ceilings were added to avoid notching any joists, also allowing pipework to run straight and
under a 1 hour fire barrier against the original structure.
PEREGRINE BRYANT
ARCHITECTURE & BUILDING CONSERVATION
Above, figure 5
Demonstrating a wealth of experience in design and
consultation We specialise in working with historic
buildings and structures, conserving, refurbishing and
adding to existing fabric.
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www.peregrine-bryant.co.uk
info@peregrine-bryant.co.uk
020 7384 2111
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Conservation & Heritage Journal
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