The brief: We were commissioned to design temporary supports for the roof of a Grade II* listed barn while remedial works were carried out by contractor, Goodyer. Fire had compromised the gable wall as well as load-bearing timber posts, which supported the roof purlins and provided lateral stability.
The challenge: Parts of the barn date back to the early 17th century, so protecting the building’s historic fabric was essential. The presence of an existing mezzanine floor made positioning the temporary works more complex, as we had to carefully avoid causing any damage to the floor structure or adjacent listed elements. Compounding this, the purlins required vertical support during the repair of the gable posts, and due to thrust forces from the roof rafters, a horizontal restraint was also needed to prevent outward roof spread and lateral movement of the walls.
Our solution: Drawing on our 30+ years experience of working with listed buildings, ED implemented a scheme combining vertical propping of the purlins at their ends and horizontal tying of the roof using temporary straps. This approach enabled safe execution of the wall repairs while maintaining overall structural stability—without disturbing the mezzanine or surrounding historic features.
The results: Our temporary works successfully stabilised the structure, allowing for sensitive restoration. The barn is now fully repaired and in use as a venue for events such as weddings and functions.
To discuss your listed building project with one of ED’s structural engineers, contact us on 020 8785 4499 or drop us an email to hello@elitedesigners.co.uk.
