Established in the 1920s, the building served as a production hub for decades, playing a vital role in the local economy. However, with the decline of traditional print industries, the building fell into disuse. Today, it has undergone a remarkable transformation, repurposed as a Centre for Sustainable Construction, breathing new life into this iconic structure and contributing to Birmingham's ongoing regeneration.

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We were proud to contribute to the ambitious regeneration of the iconic James Cond Building in Birmingham. As a structural engineering consultancy, our expertise was instrumental in transforming this historic printworks into a state-of-the-art Centre for Sustainable Construction for University College Birmingham.

The project presented a unique set of challenges due to the building’s age and its original purpose. Our involvement centered on the critical task of assessing and designing the replacement of the building's roof. This required an in-depth understanding of the existing structure, its condition, and the anticipated loads it would need to support in its new role.

Through meticulous site inspections, detailed structural analysis, and collaborative discussions with the project team, we developed a comprehensive plan for the roof replacement. Our work encompassed a range of complexities, including the consideration of the building's historic fabric, the integration of modern building technologies, and the optimization of the roof’s performance in terms of insulation, waterproofing, and sustainability.

The successful completion of the roof replacement was a significant milestone in the overall transformation of the James Cond Building. Our contribution to this landmark project showcases our ability to deliver innovative and practical solutions for complex heritage structures, while aligning with the demands of contemporary building requirements.