Need an urgent response?
1-6 Lombard Street is a Grade II Listed building located in the heart of London’s financial district, adjacent to Mansion House and opposite the Bank of England. Constructed between 1905 and 1908 and later modified in 1915 by architects Dunn and Watson with Curtis Green, the building boasts a rich architectural heritage. Over time, exposure to the elements and general wear had compromised the condition of the original windows, affecting both their functionality and appearance. The refurbishment project, spearheaded by Canada Life with Parkeray managing the works, aims to restore the building’s historic features while updating its infrastructure to meet modern requirements, including improvements to energy efficiency and weather protection.
The project
Canada Life, represented by Parkeray, sought a comprehensive solution to restore the windows of 1-6 Lombard Street. Their objectives were clear: to preserve the historical character of the building’s windows, improve their energy efficiency, and ensure their structural integrity and weatherproofing. TRC Contracts was selected due to our expertise in timber window restoration, offering solutions such as the Repair Care resin system and the Draftfix draught-proofing system. These methods allowed TRC to restore the windows while minimising disruption to the building’s operations, providing a cost-effective solution to meet the client’s goals.
Expert Restoration Using the Repair Care Resin System
The refurbishment process began with a thorough survey of the windows to assess their condition, followed by a tailored refurbishment plan for each window. TRC Contracts utilised the Repair Care resin system, a minimally invasive technique designed to restore decayed timber without the need to remove the windows from the building. This system involves injecting resin into damaged areas of the wood, which solidifies to form a durable repair.
For larger repairs and sills, TRC employed timber splicing procedures using matching timber species. After timber repairs were completed, old glazing putty was replaced with modern alternatives to ensure the glass was securely and effectively sealed, followed by priming to protect the repairs and prepare for decoration.
Successful Refurbishment and Client Satisfaction
The refurbishment of the windows at 1-6 Lombard Street has been a success. The windows are now more energy-efficient, secure, and weatherproof, while the building’s exterior has been improved. The client was pleased with the outcome, as the restored windows are not only more functional but also visually appealing. The work was carried out in phases, aligning with existing tenant leases, ensuring minimal disruption.
TRC Contracts completed the work on time and within budget, with the client so satisfied with the results that they have invited TRC to continue with the next phase of the project. The project stands as a prime example of how expert knowledge, the right materials, and careful restoration techniques can prolong the life of existing timber windows while meeting modern standards.