NEWS

Ketley House, London, Façade Remediation Project Inception and Progress

We are delighted to share with you our latest project update from Ketley House in London, another Starfish Construction residential façade remediation project. Our commitment to excellence in design, engineering, safety, and project delivery is consistently demonstrated throughout all our projects. This is exemplified by Ketley House, which is more than a construction project; it's a transformation that will enhance the living environment for the residents and contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the local community. Moreover, we are implementing sustainable practices and materials to minimise the project's environmental impact.

Our journey with Ketley House began with a meticulous assessment of the client's exacting specifications. As the single-source principal project contractor, our experience and expertise across building surveying, planning, and design, all conducted in-house by our integrated divisions, ensure the highest standards and strict adherence to our methodology.

With an expected completion timeframe of 25 weeks, this ambitious undertaking will transform the residential block. The project scope includes removing the existing 507m² of façade and designing, supplying, and installing a new, safe cladding system.

Dual Roles as Principal Contractor and Designer

The first phase of this extensive project began with removing the existing cladding system, which included a timber backing system, HPL cladding, and EPDM.

Once cleared, the installation of the new façade has commenced. This includes the application of new EPDMs and breather membranes, the erection of a new backing structure complete with fire breaks and insulation, and the installation of new aluminium cladding panels and pressed metal. Additionally, we conducted fire door surveys to ensure compliance with safety standards.

As the principal contractor and designer, we have dual responsibility, which highlights our comprehensive approach to the design and execution phases, ensuring seamless and efficient project progression.

Design, Access Build and Overcoming Project Challenges

As a diverse construction group, Starfish Construction has an in-house Access and Scaffolding Division that designs and manages installations while adhering to strict Health and Safety standards. The project required an innovative scaffolding plan due to limited space around the site perimeter and restricted access points.

Urban projects in London present unique challenges, and Ketley House is no exception. The Starfish Construction team faced and skillfully overcame several obstacles, such as a busy high street location and managing deliveries during off-peak hours to minimise disruption.

Due to limited storage space, we used just-in-time deliveries and optimised available space to uphold high welfare standards while maintaining access to the parking area through the building's archway.

With occupied apartments: Keeping residents informed via our Residents Hub Portal, providing regular updates and work schedules and with operational commercial units, prioritising the safety of staff and visitors. We have designated walkways and additional signage for commercial unit patrons, demonstrating our commitment to safety standards.

Robert Morgan, Senior Project Manager at Starfish Construction, highlighted the team's resilience amid project constraints: "Our ability to adapt and uphold high standards of safety and quality has been crucial. The team's solutions and effective communication with residents and commercial stakeholders have been pivotal to our progress. Our innovative Residents Hub keeps all owners and occupiers updated on all project stages and any restrictions affecting them. It's a game-changer for residential projects."

Project Progress and Phases

Our highly experienced Senior Site Manager has worked exceptionally hard to ensure he meets all challenges. The project is advancing steadily, with significant milestones already achieved.

Progress Update

Phase 1

EPDM works have been completed
Breather Membrane works are completed
Cladding brackets works have been completed
Insulation install works are near completion
Cavity Barrier installation has commenced

Progress Update

Phase 2

Scaffold is 100% complete
EPDM works have been completed
Breather Membrane works are completed
Cladding brackets installation has commenced

Progress Update

Phase 3

Scaffold is 100% complete
EPDM works have been completed
Breather Membrane works are completed.

With a fully occupied residential building with parking accessed via an archway, diligence is required to ensure the access is not blocked unnecessarily. Along the front of the building are several business units requiring safe access for staff and clients. We’ve also ensured passersby can safely use the pavement during the project.

Starfish Construction remains dedicated to delivering outstanding results while overcoming each project's unique challenges. We look forward to sharing further progress and celebrating the successful completion of Ketley House.