Founder's Building Library Repurposing & Reading Room Refurbishment

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HDC were appointed to undertake two contrasting projects in the Grade I listed Founder's Building, one of the country’s finest architectural assets, involving the loving restoration of the original Reading Rooms and the functional conversion of the old library archives into category B office space. 

Key features included:

- consulting archive records and undertaking paint analysis to establish original colour schemes.

- appointing specialist contractors to decorate the ornate ceiling, clean the bookcases, clean the stonework and sand/ seal the timber floor.

- creation of an open plan, 60 occupant office in place of the old library.

- repurposing another 22 rooms in the South Tower spanning four floors including offices, meeting rooms, tea points and toilets.

- overseeing the supply, delivery and installation of all office furniture.

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All works were carried out with the upmost sensitivity for the building and with the agreement of Historic England.