Construction of Broadcast Studio and Learning Centre at National Archives, Kew

About

The National Archives awarded a contract to BW Interiors Limited for the construction of a new broadcast studio and supporting production spaces on the first floor of Q1, its 1977 brutalist concrete archive building in Kew, London.

The works included acoustic separation with glazed and solid partitions, removal and replacement of ceilings, adaptation of the existing VAV air conditioning system, additional cooling, new AV, lighting and power, new linings and soft furnishings, replacement of floor finishes, and bespoke joinery.

The adjacent circulation space was converted into an informal study area, and an existing study space was converted into a handwashing and locker area with new drainage, domestic water services, extract ventilation, sanitary ware, joinery, and floor and ceiling finishes.

Mechanical and electrical enabling works were also carried out for a future adjacent learning space.

The building remained operational throughout the works, with careful hoarding and noisy works scheduled outside public opening hours.

The contract value was £900,000 + VAT (AUD 958,355).