Due to the special architectural interest of the Elephant House's rhythmic curved elevations with giant order pilasters, good quality brickwork, and decorative panels of brick and terracotta; this Victorian Building was granted Grade II Listing in 2009. It is a rare example of an industrial complex found in inner-city London as well as being sited alongside the city's early Regent's Canal.
In 2013 Hawkins\Brown was commissioned to draw up plans to change the use of the building to accommodate offices. In such an old building, with the addition of the heritage listing, the project needed to be carefully considered ensuring a sustainable, comfortable and safe working environment was created for the new tenants.
The original single glazed windows presented a problem as they were draughty and did little to combat noise from the busy roads outside. Unable to be replaced, technical advice was sought from Selectaglaze to help work out a solution using bespoke designed secondary glazing, which is regularly used on listed buildings and those in conservation areas. Working with Selectaglaze, secondary glazing was a solution to achieving high levels of noise attenuation and thermal insulation.
A total of 8 windows were treated with two different styles of openings from their heritage range, which is readily accepted by English Heritage and other agencies for use in Listed Buildings. A single hinged panel with a curved head was used in most of the openings, which mimics the original and allows access to the primary window. The discreet frames along with flush hinges and flush locks created a flawless look and achieved the desired benefits, without compromising the beauty of the original Victorian windows.
Lift-outs had to be used in two of the areas due to a lower ceiling level, which caused an obstruction when the window furniture was mounted. Blinds were cited at the top of the window just cutting access to the arched head. Therefore, the hinged casement would not have been able to open, so the use of a lift-out provided the benefits required from the secondary and also meant the primary window could be accessed for cleaning.
When working on projects Selectaglaze are dedicated to helping choose the right window for each client. Established in 1966 and granted the Royal Warrant in 2004 Selectaglaze is the secondary glazing specialist. With an array of options, it finds the best suited window to meet the client's needs. Selectaglaze's windows are bespoke; designed, manufactured and installed ensuring the tightest fit.