Fish Market, Red House and Iron Mountain within Smithfield Market Window Refurbishment and/or Replacement Works

Introduction

Originally known as Smoothfield, it was a large open space just outside the city boundaries on the edge of St Bartholomew’s Priory.

In the 12th century it was used as a vast recreational area where tournaments and jousts took place. By the late Middle Ages the area had become the most famous livestock market in the country.

Annexe buildings or Triangular Block consisting of two separate structures The Fish Market and Red House buildings at Smithfield Market in London are two of the most important historic buildings in the city’s market area. It was built between 1886 and 1899. Not in use since the mid-1970s the General Market and the adjacent Annexe buildings, have been facing a threat of demolition. Grade II listed building protection was approved for the Red House Cold Store building in 2005 on the basis of new historical evidence qualifying the complex as "the earliest existing example of a purpose-built powered cold store". The once-in-a-generation decision was taken to recreate and open in West Smithfield The London Museum from 2026. The Annexe buildings hold great potential to expand the cultural presence and truly transform the area.

Both buildings were in need of significant refurbishment, including the refurbishment and replacement of their windows.

Problem

The existing windows in the Fish Market and Red House buildings were in poor condition. They were leaking, draughty, and inefficient, in some cases even falling apart. This was causing significant problems and buildings deterioration, including:

• Water damage to the buildings' interiors
• Cold drafts that would make the buildings unusable
• Increased future energy bills

Solution

TRC Windows was commissioned to refurbish and replace the windows in the Fish Market and Red House buildings. The company used Repair Care system to refurbish and produced high-quality timber windows that were made to replicate the original windows. The refurbished and new windows are energy-efficient and will help to reduce the buildings' energy bills. They are also weatherproof and will help to protect the buildings from water damage. Fire rated windows have been made and installed where necessary to meet client requirements.

Work

The work to refurbish and/or replace the windows in the Fish Market and Red House buildings was carried out over a period of six months. The first step was to remove the old windows. This was a delicate process, as the windows were made of timber, with loose glazing and were in poor condition. Heavy scaffolding to hold weak building structures was a challenge to move around. Once the old windows were removed, they were moved to dedicated workshop on site for refurbishment. At the same time production of new windows started. The new windows were custom-made to fit the original openings and replicate the design of existing windows while modernising. They were also fitted with complex double glazing incorporating energy-efficient glass, anti-shatter film and seals. The refurbishment process consisted of complete disassembly followed by careful repairs of all window timber parts, re-glazing and decoration, then assembly and rebalancing. Improvements as draught exclusion were incorporated during works. Refurbished windows were installed to their original positions alongside new windows in to restored window openings.

Results

The refurbishment and new windows have been a success. They have restored the looks of original buildings, reduced the buildings' energy bills, made them more comfortable to work in, and protected them from further damage. The client is very pleased with the results of the refurbishment.

Conclusion

The refurbishment of the windows in the Fish Market and Red House buildings was a complex and challenging project. However, it was completed on time and has improved the buildings' condition and efficiency. The new windows are a valuable addition to these historic buildings and will help to ensure that they continue to be used and enjoyed for many years to come.