Imperium Engineering was appointed to oversee the structural refurbishment of The Manse—a period building housing four two-bedroom flats. The challenge: to modernise the units for energy efficiency and comfort while preserving the building’s heritage character. This project demonstrates how thoughtful engineering can sensitively transform historic spaces into high-performance homes.
Project Highlights
- Modernisation of four heritage flats within a period building
- Targeted thermal, acoustic, and building services upgrades
- Structural interventions with minimal impact on historic fabric
- Integrated energy efficiency measures compatible with listed status
- Phased delivery for continuous site access and minimal disruption
Respecting Heritage, Enhancing Performance
Our role began with a detailed survey of the existing structure, identifying historic features such as original timber joists, ornate coving, and single-brick partition walls. These heritage elements were mapped and protected, ensuring they were either preserved or safely worked around.
Where upgrades were required—such as load redistribution for internal reconfiguration—we implemented non-invasive solutions like steel flitch beams, localised pad stones, and custom wall ties. These details maintained the visual and structural integrity of the building while unlocking new functional layouts.
Engineering a Better Living Standard
Our design strategy included acoustic insulation upgrades (between floors and walls), as well as fire-rated partitions to meet multi-unit occupation standards. Heating, ventilation, and electrical services were rationalised into a shared vertical zone that minimised wall chasing and disturbance to the historic building envelope.
We also integrated energy efficient home improvements such as:
- Internal wall insulation using breathable materials
- Airtight floor sealing around perimeter joists
- Improved glazing where heritage guidelines permitted
Coordinated Multi-Unit Delivery
To ensure consistency across all four flats, our team developed a coordinated structural strategy and delivery programme. Key details were standardised while allowing for minor variation between units. This ensured a balance of engineering efficiency and respect for the unique layout of each flat.
All work was planned and sequenced to avoid interrupting groundworks, scaffold access, or service installations. This tight coordination meant the project could proceed without delay—despite the building’s constraints.
Outcome
Scheduled for completion between March and April 2025, The Manse project demonstrates Imperium Engineering’s ability to modernise heritage residential buildings through careful structural planning. It showcases our commitment to blending past and future—where listed buildings are enhanced, not erased, by engineering innovation.
Project completed: 2025
