Birkbeck House, Islington

R.E.B is undertaking a programme of temporary works and permanent structural remedial works at Birkbeck House, working closely with the project team to carefully sequence the works and maintain the stability of the existing structure throughout the process.

The project involves a combination of specialist temporary propping, structural steelwork, masonry and timber removal, new lintels and in-situ reinforced concrete beams.

Temporary works and structural support

A significant element of the project is the installation of a comprehensive temporary works scheme to safely support the existing structure while the permanent works are carried out.

R.E.B is installing multiple lines of Acrow props, Titan props, scaffold boards and temporary steelwork, together with additional support above existing internal bressummers. The works also include the careful installation of sacrificial Pynford stools and dry packing to provide controlled support during the structural sequence.

The temporary works are designed, installed and signed off in accordance with the required sequence, with the temporary support remaining in place until the permanent works have achieved the required strength and received the necessary approval.

Permanent structural works

Following the temporary support installation, R.E.B is carrying out the permanent structural works. The scope includes:

• Removal of existing windows, sills and rotten timber where required
• Exposing and removing areas of existing dry rot
• Removal of existing external and internal timber bressummers
• Installation of new Naylor R8 structural lintels with the specified bearing and dry packing
• Installation of shuttering for the permanent structural works
• Construction of four in-situ reinforced concrete beams
• Associated structural steelwork and supporting elements

The works require careful sequencing, particularly where existing structural elements are being removed and replaced, ensuring that temporary support remains effective throughout each stage.

Additional structural works

The project has also required additional works, including further lintel installations, window protection, steel plates connected to the temporary support system, brickwork repairs and concrete infill around structural columns.

These additional works demonstrate the need for a flexible and coordinated approach when working with an existing building, where conditions can require adjustments as elements are exposed.

A carefully sequenced structural project

Birkbeck House is a good example of R.E.B's experience in complex structural alteration and remedial works, combining temporary works with permanent structural solutions.

From the initial support installation through to the new reinforced concrete structure, the works require detailed sequencing, experienced operatives and close coordination with the structural design and wider project team.

Project team

• Main contractor: Axis Europe
• Client: Guinness Housing Association