Goethe Institute, London

DESCRIPTION

The Goethe-Institute London is the German cultural establishment to promote the Teaching, Arts and Literature of Germany to the rest of the world.  The project involved the full building refurbishment of the structure and services within a Grade 2 Listed Building.

DESIGN

Working within a Listed Building introduces design criteria specific to the building. This was addressed by close liaison with the project Architect and Listed Building planning officer to ensure that the requirements were met in full.

Sympathetic selection of plant and materials, agreed with the client, i.e. sectional type radiators, cast iron external box section rainwater pipes, etc. complemented the building works.

The lighting was supplied to ensure that the correct level of lighting for the teaching classrooms was achieved and still ensure a building complimentary installation.
Specific attention was given to the design of the Library and support areas.

OBJECTIVES

To provide Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health Services to suit the building requirements. The existing heating system central plant was utilised (plant provided from an earlier Eta Projects design). The Mechanical works involved heating, water services, comfort cooling, BMS controls, kitchen/restaurant facilities, etc.  The Electrical services were upgraded to suit the new building layout. The Electrical works involved new power supply, new lighting, small power, fire alarm, security, voice and data, TV/satellite, etc.

SPECIFIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

It was paramount that the design complied fully with UK requirement in addition to the stringent German Standards for their staff. This was particularly relevant for the German fire compart mentation requirements.

Working very closely with the Architect / Client ensured that the standard of high finishes, environmental requirements and fire compart mentation not only satisfied the Clients requirements but met the Listed Buildings inspector’s requirements.