Horse Guards, Grade I – Roof Condition Survey & Repair Design
Increasing water ingress on one of Britain's most architecturally significant buildings - with no approved repair strategy in place
Visual Overview
Project Overview
Client & Sector:
Client:
MoD / Historic Buildings
Sector:
Heritage / Government
Project Tags:
Grade I Listed
Heritage
Roof Repairs
Traditional Methods
The Challenge
The Brief and The Reality
Horse Guards – a Grade I listed building in Whitehall dating from the mid-1800s, constructed primarily from Portland stone with lead and slate roofs – was experiencing increasing water ingress across its roof and stonework. There was no comprehensive condition survey in place, no picture of the extent of deterioration, and no approved repair strategy. The building’s status as one of the nation’s most architecturally significant structures meant any intervention required exceptional care with materials, methods, and heritage justification.
The Outcome
How 360DS Approached It Differently
360DS conducted a detailed roof condition survey to establish the full extent of deterioration. Repair designs were developed for extensive roof and stonework areas, employing traditional methods and materials to ensure full compatibility with the building’s historic fabric and character. Roof access and safety provisions were also reviewed and improved, with practical upgrades incorporated to support ongoing maintenance and conservation to modern standards.
Client Outcomes
What Changed For Them
Full extent of roof deterioration established for the first time
A reliable basis for repair prioritisation - replacing guesswork with a comprehensive, surveyed condition record
Traditional materials and methods specified
Repair designs fully compatible with Grade I heritage status - protecting the building's historic fabric and character throughout the works.
Roof access and safety improved
Ongoing maintenance made safer and more practical - supporting the long-term conservation of the building beyond this immediate intervention
Conservation-led repair strategy in place
The building's long-term preservation is now supported by an approved, surveyed, and properly specified repair programme