Client
London Borough of Camden
Value
£4.2M
Sectors & Services
Buildings Repairs & Refurbishment Heritage & Listed Concrete Repair Coatings Cleaning & Preparation External Façade Refurbishment
The Ferdinand Estate is a prominent residential estate located in London, forming an important part of the capital’s post-war housing stock. Developed during the mid-20th century, it reflects the period’s emphasis on durable construction and community-focused urban planning. Today, the estate remains a significant local asset, valued for its architectural character and ongoing investment in refurbishment and long-term asset management.
CRL was appointed as Principal Contractor to deliver a major £4.2 million external restoration scheme to the estate. The project focused on the comprehensive refurbishment of the building envelope, addressing age-related deterioration while maintaining the safety and comfort of residents throughout the works.
Given the scale and value of the scheme, the project formed a key part of the client’s long-term asset management strategy, safeguarding the structure and enhancing its appearance. The requirement to undertake extensive structural and fabric repairs while the apartments remained occupied added complexity, demanding careful planning, robust site management, and a considerate approach to live environments.
Services undertaken
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Principal Contractor duties
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Design and installation of full access scaffolding
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Mansard roof replacement
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Window replacement
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Leadwork and copperwork
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Installation of new cast iron rainwater goods
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Brickwork cleaning using DOFF and nebulous spray techniques
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Brickwork restoration and replacement
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Helifix masonry strengthening
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Localised concrete repairs
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External redecorations
As Principal Contractor, CRL took full responsibility for the planning, coordination, and safe delivery of all works, managing multiple specialist trades under a fully integrated programme. Full access scaffolding was installed to facilitate safe working at height and allow uninterrupted access to all elevations of the building. A complete mansard roof replacement was undertaken, incorporating new leadwork and copperwork to ensure durability and long-term weather resistance. Existing windows were removed and replaced to improve performance and appearance, while new cast iron rainwater goods were installed to provide a robust and heritage-appropriate drainage solution.
Extensive brickwork cleaning was carried out using DOFF and nebulous spray techniques, carefully selected to remove contaminants without damaging the masonry. This was followed by targeted brickwork restoration and replacement where units had deteriorated beyond repair. Helifix strengthening systems were installed to stabilise and reinforce masonry elements, addressing structural concerns without intrusive intervention. Localised concrete repairs were completed to defective areas, restoring integrity and preventing further degradation. Finally, comprehensive redecorations were applied to complete the external restoration. Throughout the project, CRL carefully phased the works and managed logistics to minimise noise, dust, and disruption, ensuring residents could remain in occupation safely and comfortably.
“CRL delivered exceptional quality with minimal disruption. The project was managed professionally from start to finish.”
Client's Representative
The completed works deliver benefits well beyond the immediate restoration, significantly enhancing the building’s durability, resilience, and long-term performance. By addressing structural weaknesses, renewing the roof, and upgrading rainwater management, CRL helped reduce future maintenance demands and protect the asset from ongoing weather-related deterioration.
The careful selection of repair techniques and materials supports sustainable asset management, extending service life and improving whole-life value. CRL’s experience as a principal contractor enabled seamless coordination, high standards of workmanship, and safe delivery in a live residential environment.
The project demonstrates CRL’s capability to manage complex structural repairs UK-wide, providing clients with confidence in long-term performance, operational continuity, and professional delivery.
