Heritage-Sensitive Electrical Upgrades at Eastney Beam Engine House

The Importance of Heritage-Sensitive Upgrades

When it comes to preserving historical buildings, the challenge often lies in balancing modern functionality with heritage conservation. The Eastney Beam Engine House in Portsmouth is a prime example of such an endeavor. Built in 1887, this cherished heritage site required comprehensive electrical upgrades to enhance its functionality without compromising its historical integrity. Such heritage-sensitive upgrades are crucial for maintaining the historical value of the site while ensuring it meets modern safety and usability standards.

Scope and Objectives of the Eastney Beam Engine House Project

The goal of the project was to modernize the Eastney Beam Engine House by upgrading its electrical systems. This included a new lighting design, electrical installations, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), emergency lighting, and LED conversions. The project aimed to provide better lighting and a fresh feel to the site, all while adhering to the preservation guidelines required for a Grade II listed building. The upgrades needed to enhance the visitor experience by improving illumination and functionality, making the historical exhibits more accessible and engaging.

Challenges in Upgrading a Grade II Listed Building

One of the biggest challenges in this project was the Grade II listed status of the Eastney Beam Engine House. This meant that any modifications had to comply with strict preservation guidelines. Key challenges included installing new steel conduit and trunking containment systems without compromising historical features, upgrading power and lighting systems to modern standards, and modifying existing lighting circuits to incorporate wireless switching while retaining original Bakelite switches as part of the exhibit.

Additionally, designing and installing a new Star Delta Starter to operate an antique motor exhibit was particularly challenging due to limited design information. Collaborating closely with English Heritage was essential to ensure all modifications met preservation requirements and did not detract from the building’s historical character.

Innovative Electrical Solutions and Collaborations

To tackle these challenges, D Squared collaborated with English Heritage and lighting specialists from Dextra. The project began with the installation of new steel conduit and trunking containment systems to support updated wiring needs. The lighting system, designed by Dextra, featured multiple control functions for general, exhibit, and emergency lighting.

Special attention was given to preserving historical elements. For instance, the original Bakelite switches were retained as part of the exhibit while new RF wireless switches were installed in more convenient locations. The antique motor exhibit was brought back to operational status with a custom-designed Star Delta Starter, despite the lack of design information.

Preserving Historical Integrity Through Modern Technology

One of the standout aspects of this project was how modern technology was seamlessly integrated into a historical setting. The new lighting systems, including feature and emergency lighting, were installed without compromising the building’s historical features. The steel trunking and conduit systems were designed to match existing wall colors, ensuring they blended in with the historical aesthetics.

The project also involved a partial rewire to remove old cabling colors, and new distribution boards with AFDD and RCBO protection were installed. By following strict procedures, such as only drilling into mortar lines for fixings, the team ensured that the historical integrity of the building was preserved while meeting modern electrical standards.

Successful Outcomes and Enhanced Visitor Experience

The project was completed ahead of schedule, achieving all its objectives. The upgraded lighting and power systems significantly improved the visitor experience by providing better illumination of exhibits. The preservation of historical elements, such as the Bakelite switches, as integral parts of the museum display, added to the site's authenticity.

The successful operation of the antique motor exhibit, thanks to the custom-designed Star Delta Starter, added an interactive element to the museum. This not only enhanced the visitor experience but also breathed new life into a piece of Victorian engineering.

In conclusion, the heritage-sensitive electrical upgrades at Eastney Beam Engine House serve as a model for how modern functionality can be integrated into historical sites without compromising their integrity. Through careful planning, innovative solutions, and close collaboration with preservation authorities, D Squared successfully modernized this cherished heritage site, ensuring it remains a valuable part of Portsmouth’s history for future generations.