Steel, stone and glass: One Great George Street’s sustainable legacy

As the home of civil engineering and the ICE’s headquarters, One Great George Street (OGGS) has reopened its doors after a summer of refurbishment.

You might think not much has changed, but the upgrades to the historic, Grade II-listed building are making a large impact in its journey to net zero.

History and innovation

One Great George Street has always been an innovative building.

In 1909, changes to the London Building Regulations and the Steel Frame Act shifted structural designs from the traditional masonry to steel frames.

This enabled the construction of taller and more robust buildings. It has also allowed more freedom for architectural features such larger windows and open floor plans.

The architect, James Miller, used this to his advantage, choosing Neo-Classical themes and touches of Renaissance decor to represent the prestige and importance of the institution.

You can see this in the Portland stone used to cover the exterior and the grand staircase in the foyer of the building.

What works took place?

The dome

If you visited OGGS during the summer refurbishments, you would’ve seen a large column of scaffolding erected in the centre of the hall.

It went up to the roof and the dome, blocking out the natural light that steams in.

The scaffolding was put in place to support the works on the central glass dome, namely:

• replacing the glass with new windows;
• updating the lead work;
• checking the timber bars of the frame; and
• installing new beams where needed.

These renovations not only make the building more efficient, but also help bring in the natural light, illuminating the staircase and foyer.

The Great Hall

As you walk into the Great Hall, remember to look up and admire the beautifully restored ceiling.

It underwent a thorough cleaning and reinforcement to preserve its original splendour and structural integrity.

Samples have been taken from the ceiling to inform a future conservation programme, ensuring its beauty and durability for years to come.

This reduces the need for new materials and minimises environmental impact through the maintenance and restoration of historic structures.

The Telford Theatre

The Telford Theatre has also undergone extensive refurbishments, including the installation of plush new carpets and comfortable seating equipped with USB chargers.

Also, the acoustics and lighting have been significantly improved, and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment has been added.

These enhancements will greatly enrich our lectures and events, providing a better experience for all attendees.

In the theatre and throughout OGGS, an improved and more energy-efficient air conditioning system has been put in place, along with an updated building maintenance system to optimise heating and cooling.

The kitchen

The refurbishments to the kitchen at OGGS aimed to boost sustainability.

The kitchen has been expanded to better accommodate larger events and conferences.

All gas appliances have been replaced with induction cooking equipment, which is more energy efficient and produces zero direct emissions.

This change improves indoor air quality by eliminating harmful gas emissions.

It also allows the building to shift to a green energy tariff and reduce its carbon footprint by no longer using natural gas.

Architectural shenanigans: why should us civil engineers care?

Since it was completed in 1913, OGGS has become a place of community and outreach.

From presidential addresses and certification ceremonies to workshops and trainings – and even sitting down with a fellow Chartered Engineer for a one-to-one – the building has been the home for these events.

The refurbishments preserve the historic building and help improve its sustainability, which is an important demonstration of the institution living its purpose.

Clear progress towards a cleaner future

Sustainability has been and continues to be a key focus for current, incoming, and previous ICE presidents. And as civil engineers, valuing sustainability is crucial.

Throughout history, from the industrial age to the present, there’s been clear progress towards cleaner and more natural energy sources.

We have moved from coal and natural gas to wind, solar, and tidal energy.

Gone are the days of cleaning stone buildings from coal and industrial smoke and smog.

The future is clean and renewable energy, which not only benefits society by improving health and living conditions but also helps infrastructure and buildings to survive and thrive.

Steel, stone and glass

The refurbishment of our historic headquarters isn’t just about preserving a building but honouring our engineering heritage.

We’re showcasing our commitment to sustainability and inspiring future generations of civil engineers.

Working regularly at OGGS is a constant source of inspiration.

As I walk through its halls, I’m reminded of the incredible innovation and skill that has shaped our past and will continue to drive our future.

This environment challenges me to strive for excellence as a civil engineer.

Next time you visit, take a moment to look up at the magnificent dome and appreciate the surroundings.

The building stands as a testament to the ICE’s dedication to creating a sustainable legacy for many years to come.