Lambeth Council has appointed Diamond Build Group to upgrade Carnegie Library, a grade II listed building in Herne Hill.
The 16-week project involves external repairs and an internal refurbishment, which will be carried out while the library remains open to the public.
Diamond Build will be responsible for repairing brickwork and cleaning the building’s brick and stone façade. To rectify drainage issues, a new cast iron rainwater pipe will be installed to reflect the existing architecture. The library’s stained-glass windows will also be removed and taken to a specialist workshop to be repaired.
Inside the building, Diamond Build will repair the parquet floor and redecorate throughout, protecting any historic architectural features.
David Lott, Senior Contracts Manager at Diamond Build, said: “Carnegie Library is an impressive, listed building that is more than 100 years old. We will be working closely with the council’s conservation officers to deliver the refurbishment ensuring the upgrades match the building’s historic fabric. This includes creating a test panel for the brickwork repairs to make sure there is the right mix of mortar and colour before we begin work.
“Minimising disruption for visitors and staff is another priority. With a full events programme and two community halls, Carnegie Library is a popular facility for the local community. Our site team will prepare a programme of works in partnership with the library’s staff that accommodates as many existing activities as possible.”
The project is Diamond Build’s first refurbishment project for Lambeth Council and builds on its expertise in refurbishing libraries and other occupied community facilities. The contractor has recently refurbished Alexandra Park Library and Wood Green Library in Haringey.