Briggait

Spearheaded by Collective Architecture, this £4 million project aimed to revitalise two neglected halls that had been unused for decades. WASPs, who had previously operated the adjacent 1874 Hall as an event space, envisioned expanding the venue’s capacity and functionality. Their long-term plan materialised through securing funding and creating versatile spaces for events, artists, and exhibitions.

Engineering Challenges

The structural engineering challenges primarily involved assessing the roofs of the two market halls. While one roof was structurally sound, requiring only protective coatings, new slating, sarking, and glazing, the historic wrought iron trusses of the smaller roof demanded reinforcement. After conducting detailed truss analyses, Narro identified that the top chord of one truss lacked sufficient capacity. Strengthening measures included meticulous detailing and drawings, ensuring stability without compromising the existing walls supporting the roofs or altering the visual profile of the truss system below the ceiling line.

New Entrance Link

A newly constructed entrance link connects the refurbished market halls to the 1874 Hall, consolidating the three spaces into a cohesive complex. Structural works in this area involved installing secondary steel walls and flooring to accommodate toilets and café facilities, alongside extensive drainage solutions. Conservation principles guided these efforts, maintaining harmony with the original architecture while introducing modern amenities.

The project also addressed a vacant corner block space, envisioned as a future retail or office area. Works included laying new concrete slabs and designing curtain walling to infill the building’s arches with contemporary glazing. These interventions balanced functionality with aesthetic sensitivity.

Conservation

A conservation-led approach underpinned the refurbishment, striving to minimise the use of new materials. Steel and concrete were essential for reinforcement and foundational works, while secondary steel framed the interior spaces. Timber was another key material, particularly for the lantern structures atop both roofs. Where feasible, existing materials were retained; however, severely deteriorated sections were replaced with carefully matched new timber.

This refurbishment showcases the pivotal role of structural engineering in revitalising heritage buildings. Narro’s expertise ensured that The Briggait retained its historical charm while adapting to modern uses, reflecting a seamless blend of conservation and innovation.