Home Office Framework

Bramshill Mansion

This technically-challenging project at Bramshill Mansion, awarded under the Home Office Framework, illustrates Interserve's ability to deliver complex refurbishment and skilful restoration works within an historic building, whilst accommodating changing circumstances as work progressed.

Bramshill is a Grade One Listed Jacobean mansion built in 1612 and it has been home to the National Policing Improvement Agency since the 1950's.

Extensive works, involving a team of specialist craftsmen, comprised detailed restoration of the main entrance façade and deer park wall, underpinning of structural pillars supporting the chimney, roof works to prevent water damaging treasures within the house and structural repairs to various building elements, including the reconditioning of ornate 17th century ceilings.

Challenges and changes

As the project progressed, an expanding bat population necessitated a swift reduction in scope of works. However, granting of an emergency bat licence brought the team back to the drawing board. Project remit could again be broadened, yet funding remained at substantially reduced levels. Working collaboratively with the client, the team value engineered solutions that allowed the expanded project to go ahead.

The floor joist repairs presented immense challenges. On the third floor, 300mm deep oak joists had huge cracks and shakes running their entire length. At second floor level, these timber joists were holding up the precious, 17th century ornate plaster ceiling. Careful installation of steel channels, bolted to the frail deflected timbers to stop them from collapsing, was needed - the confined working area adding to the challenge.

Supporting the fine plastered ceilings was paramount, so Interserve propped them from below using 100mm rockwool insulation face on an 18mm fire rated ply, connected to adjustable props, thus supporting the entire ceiling.

Innovating: "no touch" scaffolding with an enclosed roof

The roof repairs demanded we introduce a cantilevered scaffolding system that did not touch the building's delicate façade, with a freestanding tower on the terrace supporting the roof covering. All-weather working was now possible, removing a considerable programme risk and the possibility of water damage to the 400-plus year old internal finishes.

Facing the unexpected

Old structures can often produce surprises and Bramshill was no exception. An extension of time was granted to accommodate unforeseen works, including re-engineering of connecting brackets due to excessive deflection of second floor beams (believed to be old ship's timbers). Skilful integration into planned works meant programme was maintained. This complex project remains on schedule for timely completion.