Quadrant House
The scheme aimed to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and enhance visual impact, contributing to Tandridge District Council’s commitment to sustainable regeneration.
The building, constructed in the 1960s and 70s, contained ground-floor retail units and 38,000 sq ft of offices. Our role was to transform its environmental performance and appearance while keeping businesses operational, improving the working environment, and ensuring long-term asset resilience.
Refurbishing an occupied high-street building with a 1970s reinforced concrete frame presented multiple challenges. Structural loading limitations had to be managed while introducing new features such as the rooftop terrace, green wall and upgraded escape routes. Operational continuity required precise sequencing to safeguard occupants and maintain safe access, alongside robust measures for dust, noise and fire safety.
We combined engineering precision with stakeholder transparency to deliver a seamless upgrade in a live environment. On-site structural reviews and early coordination enabled the introduction of key sustainability features without risk to integrity. Our in-house window division provided tighter quality control during window upgrades and allowed integration with external insulation to minimise energy loss.
A proactive engagement strategy, including a “Meet the Contractor” event and frequent communications , kept building users informed, allowed fire escape routes to be adapted collaboratively, and reduced disruption for tenants. Strict segregation, dust control and noise attenuation supported a safe working environment throughout.
Energy performance enhancements included installing heat pump-based cooling and heating systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and rooftop photovoltaic panels, while the living wall and roof greenery offered biodiversity benefits and improved local air quality. These measures combined to deliver a significant uplift in sustainability outcomes and user comfort levels.
The refurbishment delivered a 25% reduction in energy consumption and 30% cut in carbon emissions, modernising Quadrant House as a sustainable, future-ready asset in Caterham’s town centre. Occupants benefitted from improved thermal comfort, fresh aesthetics and enhanced amenities, while the council gained a landmark example of decarbonisation in practice.
Social value was integral: the site team raised £19,700 for Prostate Cancer UK, underlining the positive community impact alongside technical success. The project also achieved industry recognition for its collaborative approach and compliance performance, earning the 2023 Surrey LABC Award for Excellence in Collaboration and Compliance.
