Richmond Station Heritage Restoration
Authentic restoration of Art Deco canopy to original 1936 design, enhancing this architectural gem's heritage while improving functionality.
Scope of Works
The complex restoration process included:
Protection of all glazing directly above the canopy structure
Careful removal of existing fascia, secondary steelwork, flashings, uplighters and canopy roof covering
Comprehensive survey of the remaining structure once fully exposed
Specialist repairs and replacement of canopy skylights
Exposure, cleaning and repair of original glasscrete elements, with water-tightness testing
Development of appropriate flashing details between new and existing elements
Integration of signage boxes within the new fascia, featuring Southern Railway Green-tinted toughened glass with Futura PT typeface lettering
Formation of recessed aluminium box gutters behind the renewed fascia
Installation of a rubberised roofing membrane with 25-year material warranty
Fitting of two new bronze anodized aluminium rainwater downpipes positioned to complement the original design
Installation of four Thorlux LED uplighters with comprehensive rewiring
Detailed redecoration of all previously decorated surfaces
Location:
13th May 2024 - 7th March 2025
Project Value:
£223,062.08
Duration:
13th May 2024 - 7th March 2025
Client:
South Western Railway
Contract:
JCT Minor Works with Contractor’s Design Building Contract 2016
The Challenge:
The project required balancing authentic heritage restoration with modern performance standards, including appropriate lighting levels and weather protection. All three doorways into the main station entrance needed to remain fully operational throughout the works, requiring careful management of passenger flows. The high-profile nature of this listed building demanded exceptional attention to historical detail and craftsmanship.
Our Approach:
Our comprehensive design scope focused on elements directly associated with the building’s heritage appearance, including creation of new canopy perimeter fascia with integrated Thorlux LED lighting, custom fabrication of powder-coated gilt bronze effect aluminium fascia including radius corners, and period-appropriate polycarbonate lighting diffusers. We worked closely with heritage specialists to ensure authenticity throughout.
Overcoming Challenges:
The station entrance, with its three doorways, needed to remain fully operational throughout the project. Our approach included daily liaison with the station manager regarding planned works, weekly on-site meetings to coordinate activities, early notification to commuters of any transitional changes, and provision of clearly illuminated walking routes throughout. We carefully monitored passenger flow during peak periods to ensure safety and convenience.
Key Achievements:
This exemplary heritage restoration project demonstrates our ability to blend historical authenticity with modern performance requirements, breathing new life into one of London’s architectural treasures. The restored canopy now showcases its original Art Deco design while providing improved lighting and weather protection for passengers. Our sensitive approach to working in a busy operational station ensured minimal disruption throughout the project.