Audley Greenhouse Restoration

Carpentry, Joinery, Romsey Hampshire

 Victorian Greenhouse Restoration

Audley Stanbridge Earls is located near Romsey, Hampshire. Every Audley village has its own health club, library and restaurant and is dedicated to creating a unique community and luxury independent lifestyle for their residents.

The Challenge

Having discovered the quality, reliability and finish of Pinnacle’s work during their time working for main contractors on another Audley Retirement Village, the Developers at Stanbridge Earls had a very special project in mind. They knew that Pinnacle were the team to take it on.

The original greenhouse requiring restoration dated back to 1900’s during the industrial revolution of the Victorian era, and despite standing the test of time, it certainly lacked the grandeur of its hay day. On closer examination it was established that the wood was just too damaged and impossible to repair.

Despite the fact that the location was outside their usual area, and this wasn’t a usual project, Pinnacle were keen to do everything to help their client and took on this ambitious restoration.

The Solution

Pinnacle’s solution was to create a sympathetic like for like of the original greenhouse, keeping its original features in-tact.

To replicate the wooden rafters, bespoke cutters were made. Using European oak, the primary and secondary rafters were manufactured offsite and were able to be stored until required. The timber rafters hold the glass panels and require 2 grooves at the top – 1 for glass and the second to collect condensation which would then run off into the gutters.

Pinnacle changed all of the glass panels. These were toughened glass so that not only would they be made to survive the next 120 years; they would meet the necessary H&S requirements as well as aesthetic ones. In addition, they repaired and repointed all the brickwork to keep it water tight.

Going above and beyond the original brief, Pinnacle also repaired the original metalwork, renewed all the gutters and removed the interior rubbish. Taking immense pride in all their work means Pinnacle are always happy to step up to extra tasks required to see a job well done.

The Results

The Residents at Audley couldn’t wait for it to be finished. They were frequently found chatting to the Pinnacle team, and they were so excited about the opportunity to have their own small planting plots inside. The team were always happy to talk, explaining the process, what they were doing and answering questions. The greenhouse is now ready for the internal elements to be completed so the residents will be able to create a new community, friendships and produce to enjoy!

 

This was a unique project which required a unique approach. Having worked with Pinnacle previously, we knew they would be a perfect fit. They did not disappoint, and we are absolutely thrilled with the restoration of this historical building, and the joy it will bring the residents for many years to come.”

Patrick Murtagh, Audley Stanbridge Earls.

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