Africa House, Holborn (spec: Mastic Asphalt)
Our recent work for Mace at Cafe Royal was an excellent chance for Rock to prove the skills of our artisans in restoring a unique and historic building. Now we have been given another great opportunity, this time by main contractor BAM, who have appointed Rock to assist in the complex refurbishment of Africa House.
With a name that reflects the days of Empire, Africa House is a 1920s Grade II listed building close to Holborn tube station. Without doubt its most striking feature, high on its stone-faced facade, is a large sculpted montage created in 1922 by Benjamin Clemens, a celebrated artist and teacher of his day. The tableau depicts animals surrounding a Britannia-like figure, and include a wildebeest, a crocodile, a lion and a dead elephant and the hunter who shot him!
Rather than big game, Rock and BAM have in their sights a BREEAM rating of "Excellent" for the £22m upgrade. The old roof is to be demolished and a new storey added, all of which will be waterproofed using Rock's high quality asphalt. Our team of professional craftsmen will also install all lead and slate work to return this historic building to its former glory. The development will accommodate new high-specification offices, with completion expected in early autumn 2012.
