The Royal Naval House building was designed by the architect Varney Parkes and exhibits a distinctively intricate and ornate façade. The building underwent significant changes across the 1980 and 2010. The 2010 changes were designed by Harry Seidler which integrated the building into the neighbouring Grosvenor Campus.
Located on the rooftop of the building, a glass skylight exists and provides natural light into the central atrium of the internal space. Due to years of deterioration the skylight glazing system had failed and the supporting steel structure was showing signs of corrosion.
In 2018, alongside Arup as Superintendent, Grosvenor Place engaged RM Watson to replace the skylight glazing system on a design and construct basis and undertake corrosion treatment, repairs, and repainting of the supporting structural steel on a provisional basis.
As the area below the skylight was to remain an active internal tenancy for the duration of the project, RM Watson designed and implemented an access system which eliminated the risk of moisture ingress whilst the skylight was removed. This access system also allowed for works to be undertaken in a safe and timely manner reducing the urgency to complete certain milestones prior to weather events.
As mentioned above, the area below the skylight had to be maintained as an active internal tenancy for the duration of the project, RM Watson had to design and implement a bespoke access system which eliminated the risk of moisture ingress whilst the skylight was removed.
This access system encased the entirety of the skylight structure ensuring the building remained a watertight envelope for the duration of works. The tent structure also meant tenants could maintain their enjoyment of the site as work occurred overhead.
