The Branch >
The new community hub provides support for mental health, loneliness, those that have been victims of domestic abuse and the young. Over the years the building had been extended and remodelled, most recently in the 1980s when it became Chipping Norton’s Natwest Branch. This evolution led to it having a disjointed and fragmented internal configuration that was no longer fit for purpose. The new design reconfigures the space to create a more natural flow, with easy access for all. The rear of the property has been extended to create a welcoming community hall.
Photo credit - Savvy Construction
LOCATION: CHIPPING NORTON, OXFORDSHIRE
ARCHITECT: CLEWS ARCHITECTS
PROJECT VALUE: £4M
DATE: 2024
The Challenge
The extensive renovation and extension to the rear of the property required careful consideration due to complex ground conditions, the historic fabric, neighbouring buildings and the only access being through the old front door of the bank situated in the busy Market Place. The existing structure needed a complete reconfiguration to bring the layout up to modern standards, including the removal of the old Natwest bank vault.
Photo credit - Savvy Construction
The SOLID Approach
Understanding the historic changes made to the listed building was essential to help us develop the structural design. Grout injection was required with underpinning to control the long term settlement.
We worked closely with Clews Architects and WIG Engineering on the design for the steel frame. Our 3D model was key to understanding the complex geometry. The frame was broken down into assembly parts which then had to be transferred through the building on a trolley via a temporary ramp. A spider crane followed the same route through the building and was used to erect the frame. This was an extremely difficult project and Savvy Construction rose to the challenge to manage the complex logistics.