Ceilings

Bafta

United Kingdom United KingdomContractors: Knight Harwood & Fine Art Mouldings

Project description

During routine maintenance, a previously unknown ceiling was uncovered at the BAFTA headquarters, hidden for over 50 years. This discovery led to further investigation of two additional skylights, revealing two exquisitely detailed plaster rooflights original to the building, dating back to 1856.
Fine Art Mouldings was commissioned to assess the condition of these historic rooflights and provide recommendations for their preservation and potential reinstatement. Initial discoveries identified conditions which had rotted the original plasterwork – astonishingly it hadn’t fallen down already!
The project showcases a meticulous blend of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship.

Main information

Building size

1 600 m²

Building purpose / type

Conferencing and hospitality facilities

Building owner name

Crown Estate

Architect name

Benedetti Architects

Knight Harwood

Company name: Knight Harwood

Main Representative: John Knight

Number of collaborators: 50

Specialties: Commercial & Education, Leisure, Retail & Hospitality, Residential Development & Private Homes

Founded in: 2004

Biography: Our business was formed in 2005 by John Knight and Ian Harwood who, alongside the board of directors, embarked on a journey with the aim of building the best construction firm in London. We all want to be a part of a business that people are proud of and want to belong to. The directors have surrounded themselves with like-minded and trustworthy people who share the common thread of a strong work ethic and passion for excellence.

Website: www.knightharwood.com

Fine Art Mouldings

Company name: Fine Art Mouldings

Main Representative: Samuel Barry

Other Representative: Andrew Barry

Number of collaborators: 25

Specialties: High-quality plaster mouldings ; For commercial, residential and historic properties worldwide

Founded in: 1989

Biography: Specialists in the meticulous design, manufacture, restoration and installation of superb quality plasterwork for private residences, prestigious historic and public buildings across the globe. Whether you prefer Victorian or Georgian, classical or 1930s style of decorative plasterwork, we pride ourselves on our ability to interpret the taste and style of the most discerning clientele – and leave behind the most exquisite plasterwork and plaster moulding designs.

Website: www.fineartmouldings.co.uk

  • Preservation of Historic Materials
    • By carefully removing, conserving, and incorporating original plaster fragments into the new installations, the project minimises waste and preserves valuable historic materials.
  • Use of Advanced Technology
    • Utilising 3D laser scanning and online mapping tools for precise documentation reduces the need for physical alterations and ensures accurate restoration, which is more resource-efficient.
  • Energy Efficiency
    • Integrating modern amenities like lighting and speakers into the historic plasterwork can improve the building’s overall energy efficiency, reducing its environmental footprint.
  • Longevity and Durability
    • The meticulous restoration and use of high-quality materials ensure the rooflights’ longevity, reducing the need for future repairs and the associated resource consumption.

Saint-Gobain products & systems

Architect’s testimonial
Benedetti Architects
We greatly enjoyed working with Fine Art Mouldings on our multi award-winning redesign of BAFTA’s headquarters in Piccadilly, London. Their excellent restoration of the original 1883 rooflights’ plasterwork takes centre stage. It’s always special to work with real craftsmen and extra special when it’s a family business.
Saint-Gobain Representative’s testimonial
Adam Summers
The restoration of the BAFTA rooflights exemplifies a sustainable approach by preserving historic materials and leveraging advanced technology.

Saint-Gobain Team

Adam Summers

Photographer’s name

Samuel Barry