Preserving Our History: Transforming Smithfield Market into the London Museum Part Two

Описание: Key Challenges and Solutions

Integrated offer approach: delivering a range of services and specialisms - from demolition to the construction of concrete frames, also incorporating various steel elements and temporary works - which enabled the team to respond swiftly to changes and project requirements.

Making the building safe: the General Market had been left derelict for years and had suffered extensive water damage, corrosion, and fatigue to the timber structures, so one of the early challenges was to make it safe. The solution involved implementing substantial temporary works before commencing any surveys.

Heritage Preservation: preserving the architecture of the buildings was paramount for the museum, involving the retention of original façades and historic structures in a celebration of London’s history. Additionally, several remarkable discoveries were made. During the early stages, numerous findings emerged, including old vaults and train tracks, which were carefully salvaged, replaced, or repaired as part of a significant conservation effort for the museum.

Investigations: upon uncovering historical features, the team carried out detailed assessments and developed tailored plans using inventive methods. A notable example involved preserving a chimney breast by corbelling to extract a stone element, then securing it with a reinforced concrete slab spanning 250 millimetres.

Logistics: being situated in Central London demanded extensive collaboration between various teams to manage the logistical challenges effectively.

Sustainability Initiatives: all timber, brickwork, and debris removed from the site was tested and reused wherever possible.