The old Smithfield Market, originally built between 1886 and 1899, will become the new home for the Museum of London. The Annex Building, previously the fish market, is being restored as part of this regeneration development.

The project required an extended pre-construction phase to complete extensive surveys. Working with the principal engineers, we compiled dimensional and condition surveys based on the extent of timber rot to produce structural connection and repair details. To retain as much existing timber as possible every rafter had different lengths of repairs. These repairs were carried out using a splice connection, bolts and double side tooth-plate connectors attached to new C24 timber to the cut-back existing rafter.

Where structural steelwork was installed at the Truss Hip Ends of the Arcades, the design was particularly complex. Cladded in timber and painted, the design allowed the roof to meet modern structural requirements without sacrificing the historical and ornate design that has stood since the late 1800’s.

The Trusses required different repair types depending on the extent of rot that was present. We were required to match existing timber species at a similar density. One of the more challenging issues we discovered was that the section sizes of the European Redwood used historically, were not viable to procure. Many Victorian structures were constructed using timber members from decommissioned ships however today’s timber supply consists of mainly fast-growing trees with smaller section sizes. To overcome this, the design consisted of a laminated timber section with a timber nailing pattern, produced in our workshop on site. This section of timber would then be offered up to existing timber as a splice connection with extensive quantity of M16 Bolts.

We provided a bespoke steel box guttering system to valleys of the roof with gutter run production drawings. A liquid applied roofing system was then coated with multiple layers placed on the steel. This was implemented to meet modern drainage requirements on a historic structure. External elevations also had lead gutters reinstated to match existing.

A challenging and high-quality restoration project with a combination of traditional and modern building methods. We maintained a great relationship with all parties involved and feel proud to have been a part of this scheme.