Lombard Street
Lombard Street's connection with the City of London's merchant industries stretches back to medieval times. Glade II listed 1-6 Lombard Street is no exception. It has a long history of ownership by insurance firms who have overhauled the floors behind its neo-classical façade.
it was Scottish Provident in the 1980s. Now, it is the turn of Canada Life. The company has been undertaking a phased refurbishment of its City headquarters since 2006.
Professional Team:
Canada Life / Avison Young
Programme duration:
8 weeks
Value:
Up to £750k
In summary
Photographic condition and building services surveys
Isolation of services and install of temporary supplies
Protection of listed areas
Soft strip incl. MEP in line with specification
Removal of substantial plant at roof level using crane
Removal of arisings
Transforming a classic
1-6 Lombard Street, with its distinctive symmetrical stone façade, dates from the early 1900s and was designed by notable architects Dunn, Watson and Curtis Green. General Demolition delivered strip out works to the lower floors while some higher floors remained occupied by the client's employees.
The project
General Demolition carried out strip out works to three floors at 1-6 Lombard Street and removed substantial amounts of plant from roof level.
Working in the heart of the City requires a good deal of adaptability when programming stages of works. Early engagement with stakeholders is often vital for a successful project delivery.
SMART working
On this occasion, it became clear to us very early on that we would have to change our usual working hours to ensure the programme was completed on time.
Not only were upper floors in use but, by virtue of its central location, some of the area’s busiest buildings – the Bank of England, Mansion House and the Royal Exchange - were within touching distance.
Added to this was the logistical challenges presented by the narrow road access and the weight restrictions for our lorries.
Working across a combination of day and night shifts, we significantly lessened disruption while getting the job done on time.
SPOTLIGHT ON GD
Protecting listed buildings
As an enabling works contractor that has been in business for over four decades, we have seen a lot! Working in and around many of London’s listed buildings has become routine for us. But diligence and care are always non-negotiable. Boots on the ground are preceded by surveys to understand the base case. Regular monitoring throughout projects gives us and the client the continued reassurance that works are not having undue effects on listed buildings or any architectural elements deemed to be of historical significance. Good quality protection, signage and logistics are routinely adopted to ensure that these iconic buildings can be properly incorporated into any new designs.