Project Story
Updating one of London’s most historic buildings called for the highest attention to detail and design know-how.
Established in the 16th century and opened by Queen Elizabeth I, the Royal Exchange is one of London’s oldest commercial institutions. Earlier versions of the building were destroyed by fires, but the current structure was erected in 1844 and is one of London’s grandest examples of early Victorian architecture.
Therein lay the challenge for us as we helped restore the Royal Exchange to accommodate 33 high profile shops and five restaurants. It was the first time we had worked on a listed building with so many stipulations – the stone columns and arches that give the interior its unique charm were all out of bounds.
We came up with a solution using made-to-measure pieces of glass and a stainless-steel support system. This enabled us to install shop fronts and balcony balustrades fitted around the impressive masonry, but never attached to it.
Project Summary
- Location: Threadneedle Street, London
- Client: Oxford Properties
- Architect: Fitzroy Robinson
- Main Contractor: ISG
- Status: Completed
- Sectors: Retail, Iconic Structures, Hospitality & Leisure
- Exterior/Interior: Interior/Exterior
- Expertise: Balustrades, Shop Fronts, Lift Shafts, Fire Glazing
- Project Value: C. £1.5M
Project Story Continued
While the work was done, the building’s fine collection of oil paintings remained in situ, under a protective covering.
