Challenge

Newton Specialist Contractor Arti Structural Waterproofing, leading experts in all forms of residential and commercial waterproofing, was brought in to convert the original basement vaults of a Grade 2 listed terraced property on Ovington Street into a dry and usable space. 

Located in the Chelsea Conservation Area in the London Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, there are strict conservation guidelines for any changes to not negatively impact the fabric of the building or the character of the area. Therefore, close co-operation between Arti Structural Waterproofing, contractor Adrian Design and Le Lay Architects was necessary. 

Solution

To meet those strict requirements, Arti Structural Waterproofing proposed a sustainable design that not only had the lowest possible impact on the existing fabric but is also reversible if necessary.

Where a sympathetic installation is necessary, the Newton CDM System is perfect, requiring very little preparation and absolutely no chemicals or damage to the fabric. It is also the only system of its kind to hold certification to the BES 6001 standard for responsible sourcing.

Newton’s 508 Mesh cavity drain membrane was installed to the walls, whilst BaseDrain channels were utilised to capture the water behind the membrane and direct it to a pump system for safe removal. Furthermore, to provide complete peace of mind, Arti installed a pump monitoring and battery back-up system using a Victron Inverter and Pump Controller panel.

To finish the project, Arti plastered the mesh membrane with a 100% ecological material to provide sound absorption, insulation and further sustainability benefits.

Outcome

Despite the compact size and complex configuration, Arti installed a waterproofing system that delivers a completely dry Grade 3 environment as per BS 8102:2009, and meets all listed building and sustainability criteria.

Stuart Tansey, Commercial Director at Arti Structural Waterproofing, said: “As an eco-conscious company, we were very pleased to have the opportunity to use Newton’s sustainable products to provide a quick solution to both waterproof and revitalise these London vaults into usable spaces. It has also been a pleasure to work with Adrian Designs Ltd who were very professional and well-organised construction management team.”