Description:

Betts Associates were appointed in November 2010 to undertake the structural engineering design work involved in the conversion of the derelict Grade II* listed building which had originally been constructed by Dr John Langdon-Down as a centre for the treatment of Downs Syndrome.

In addition to structural work in connection with the sensitive conversion and restoration of the original building to accommodate 61 apartments, there were three new -build blocks, all of masonry construction with precast floors and one with a reinforced concrete basement.

The hospital building had grown around Dr Langdon-Down’s original house and comprised several construction types, basically of masonry and timber construction with cast iron and steel elements. There was severe rot damage to the timber elements of the structure. Complications included underpinning of loadbearing walls to allow lowering an existing basement while maintaining damp proofing, and upgrading the construction of walls and floors to comply with modern standards for sound transfer.

Architect Stanley Haines Architects

Contractor Eramo Developments Ltd.