Timber roof for Henderson Hall, Newcastle
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Summary
Major historic roof restoration involving full structural replacement and complex crane installation
Henderson Hall, a Grade II listed former halls of residence at Newcastle University, had been left empty for a prolonged period, and suffered from vandalism. After a fire broke out in 2023, the original roof was completely lost, and severe damage to the rest of the building. In 2024, a temporary roof was installed to slow the ingress of the elements and to prevent further deterioration until the new roof could be installed.
Robertson Timber Engineering is supplying and installing the complete roof structure, including trusses, flooring systems, Accoya window frames, dormers, and rafter insulation.
Efficient, safe on-time installation
Due to the scale of the project, all materials will be delivered to site using 40ft articulated vehicles on full loads and then craned into position once on site.
We will provide the main contractor with extensive temporary roof protection throughout the erection phase, ensuring the structure remains protected at every step of construction.
3,273m2
GIFA
1930's
Structure
539
windows to be replaced
Restoring the historic Henderson Hall
Henderson Hall was first constructed in the early 1930s in a neo-vernacular style. The building served as a hall of residence to male students of the then Armstrong College, later to become Newcastle University. It remained as a hall of residence until the late 2010s.
It is considered an outstanding example of high-quality inter-war architecture and local construction expertise.
Replacing the roof is a vital step towards bringing the building back into use.
Preserving original features while enhancing the building's long-term sustainability
Most of the original oak external doors remain intact and are being overhauled and revarnished. We will replace any doors that are not saveable, with new oak doors designed to match the 1930s originals . These works will ensure the building’s character is preserved.
Combined expertise – delivered by Robertson
Robertson Timber Engineering is supplying the timber package for Robertson Construction North East, the main contractor for this project. They selected Robertson Timber Engineering for our expertise in high quality timber products as well as our support in the buildability of the structure.
