The project includes seismic upgrades and restoration of the Deans farm building’s in order to bring them up to code standard (67% NBS) and present 21st century learning environments. The buildings will be restored to house the new Old Boys Museum, School Archive rooms and a School Uniform Store.  All exterior brick cladding and metal barrel roofs are to be repaired in accordance with Heritage standards and guidelines.

A Heritage Impact Assessment and Temporary Protection Plan were completed in parallel with the design to seismically strengthen the building in a programmed sequence of works involving removing existing slabs to allow for underpinning and strengthening to commence. We discovered original floor cobbles and the decision was made to retain a 2sqm section and overlay with glass so they are visible for all to see. The external brickwork was lovingly restored along with the original timber sash windows. The addition of structural steel and seismic bracing will make sure the building survives another 160 years.

The Deans Farm Buildings were nominated for awards at the Canterbury Heritage Awards, where the project was Commended in the Public Realm category, and Highly Commended in the Seismic Award category.