Somerset House

Grade I listed Somerset House, a Neoclassical palace overlooking the Thames in central London, has been described as one of the UK’s greatest architectural treasures. The Somerset House Trust conserve and maintain the building – now one of the capital’s celebrated art centres – to the highest possible standards. Our client wanted to remove an existing circular rooflight and replace it with a bespoke replica, offering modern measures of performance and comfort.

The existing rooflights was in bad repair at Somerset House. Being a Grade I listed building, the rooflight replacement needed to be given careful consideration in order for it to align with the building’s historic nature. We undertook multiple site visits to establish critical dimensions, design requirements and key deciding factors. Being able to design a bespoke and suitable solution was essential for success.

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We installed a bespoke semi-circular rooflight, double-glazed with hermetically sealed glass units and an automatic electric opening section to allow for smoke ventilation. Perfectly in keeping with the heritage design of the original, the rooflight meets the latest glazing regulations, improving thermal performance and interior comfort. Working very closely with key stakeholders on the project assured we delivered a standout solution.

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We installed an em.glaze Bespoke Dual Pitch Hip Ended Rooflight, double-glazed with hermetically sealed glass units, and an automatic electric opening section to allow for smoke ventilation. Perfectly in keeping with the heritage design of the original, the rooflight fulfils the latest glazing regulations, improving thermal performance and interior comfort.

• Perfect visual replicas which satisfy refurbishment requirements for listed buildings
• Aluminium glazing bars and framework maximise natural light
• Improved thermal performance and additional smoke ventilation functionality

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