A Roof Glazing Replacement for Royal West Academy
Reviving the Royal West of England Academy
The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) in Bristol has recently celebrated its grand reopening following extensive refurbishment works. Spearheaded by Beard Construction Ltd, the Light and Installation project encompassed urgent repairs to the Grade II* listed building, coupled with upgrades to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and minimise environmental impact.
Elevating Natural Light and Energy Efficiency
A pivotal aspect of this renovation project involved the replacement of the original skylights above the main galleries. The new thermally insulated lanterns now grace the building, offering improved energy efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint.
A Heritage in Preservation
Within this project, a 90m² installation of Heritage patent glazing took centre stage, replacing the existing hipped configuration. The design directive was crystal clear: replace the Victorian lead-covered steel patent glazing with a like-for-like solution while enhancing thermal efficiency. Only one product worldwide could fulfil this design vision – our Heritage glazing system. This innovative system integrates high-performance solar-controlled double-glazed units to minimise solar heat gain. Additionally, a class A laminated safety glass inner pane was incorporated to meet rigorous safety compliance standards.
Embracing Natural Ventilation
The preservation of heritage doesn’t come at the expense of modern comfort. Electrically controlled opening ventilators were thoughtfully incorporated to introduce natural ventilation, enhancing the indoor environment. These ventilators were connected to a weather control panel that operates seamlessly, closing the openings automatically in the event of rain and opening them according to preset temperature thresholds.
Meeting Complex Challenges with Precision
The multifaceted nature of this project required meticulous planning and execution. To adhere to stringent programme constraints, we initiated a comprehensive survey of the existing glazing well in advance of its removal. This early survey visit, albeit challenging due to limited scaffolding access, was a vital step in capturing accurate measurements and ensuring the project’s success.
Result: Preserving Heritage, Enhancing Efficiency
The revitalised Royal West of England Academy now stands as a beacon of heritage preservation and modern functionality. The replacement of original skylights and the installation of Heritage patent glazing have breathed new life into this historic venue, all while improving energy efficiency and minimising environmental impact.
This case study underscores our dedication to the meticulous restoration of historic buildings and our ability to navigate complex project requirements. The RWA’s reopening is a testament to the delicate balance of heritage preservation and contemporary sustainability, ensuring its legacy for years to come.
Testimonial ~ Dale Holvey, Project Manager at Beard Construction Ltd
“I wholeheartedly recommend the team behind this project, and I would like to commend the Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd for their remarkable contribution to the successful renovation of the Royal West of England Academy. Their expertise and innovative Heritage glazing system played a pivotal role in preserving the Academy’s historical significance while enhancing its efficiency and sustainability. Their dedication to heritage preservation and modern functionality is truly commendable.”
