The Project
The Walronds is a Listed Grade 1 building erected in 1605. It was originally constructed as a dwelling house but has been used as a meeting house at ground floor level with a maisonette formed within the two floors immediately over the ground floor. The building was on the English Heritage register of buildings at risk. The proposal involved the renovation and conservation of the building which includes improvements to fire safety.
The Approach
The refurbishment was carried out with great sensitivity under the watchful eye of architects Benjamin and Beauchamp. Oculus assisted the Design Team by providing guidance on the fire strategy for the building. The historic fabric and need for limited intervention presented challenges for devising passive fire safety protection whilst avoiding having a significant impact on the building. A comprehensive understanding of the building fabric was a necessity and knowledge of suitable upgrading techniques to protect escape routes, ensuring occupants would be able to reach a place of safety in the event of a fire.
Oculus liaised with the Design Team, Building Control Body and Fire Authority, obtaining the necessary approvals from the latter two bodies. The upper floors of the building are now in use as a holiday letting and the ground floor is used for a variety of community purposes.