Forcia is proud to be working on the sensitive restoration and refurbishment of 58 Queen Anne Street, a Grade II listed building situated in the heart of Westminster. This project is not just another construction job—it’s an opportunity to revive a significant part of London’s architectural heritage while integrating modern enhancements.
A Brief History
58 Queen Anne Street holds historic, artistic, and architectural significance, and while it is not noted for its archaeological value, the building is a staple of the area’s Georgian architectural charm. Unfortunately, in July 2021, a significant collapse of the front façade and balcony occurred, which led to the building being placed under a Dangerous Structure notification by the City of Westminster. Emergency propping was installed immediately to stabilize the structure, and Forcia has since taken over to safely manage the deconstruction and rebuilding process.
What We’re Doing
Our approach to the restoration of 58 Queen Anne Street involves a combination of preservation, enhancement, and modernization, all while respecting the building’s listed status. The project consists of the following key elements:
- Refurbishment of the Office Floors: The existing building comprises five storeys of traditional masonry walls and timber-joisted floors, capped with a mansard roof on the top floor. We’re carefully restoring these office spaces to meet modern standards while maintaining the character and integrity of the original structure.
- Demolition of the Rear Extension: A 1970s rear extension is being removed and will be replaced with a more sympathetically designed two-storey steel frame office space, providing a modern addition to the building while blending seamlessly with its historic character.
- Reinstatement of the Front Façade: The most challenging and high-profile aspect of the project is the careful reconstruction of the collapsed front façade. While the remaining façade was removed following the collapse, the new façade will reflect the original architectural details, restoring the building’s street-facing presence.
Managing Risks and Complexity
Due to the Dangerous Structure notification, we’ve engaged a dedicated temporary works design engineer to oversee the safe deconstruction of the remaining masonry and ensure the structural integrity of the building is maintained throughout the process. This on-call specialist is essential for making real-time decisions as we navigate the complexities of the project.
In parallel, we are developing the necessary structural enhancements, working on a package-by-package basis for the rebuild works. As the project progresses, we anticipate that the construction phase health and safety (H&S) plan will be adapted and enhanced, ensuring that we continue to meet all regulatory and safety requirements while also incorporating new discoveries made during the deconstruction process.
Looking Ahead
This project offers an exciting opportunity to merge the best of old and new, breathing new life into a historic structure while meeting the needs of today’s businesses. As always, Forcia is committed to delivering excellence in design, safety, and sustainability. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey of restoration and innovation.
If you’re interested in learning more about our work at 58 Queen Anne Street or have a similar project in mind, feel free to get in touch with our team.
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