Hurlingham Club

Project Overview

This project required far more than a standard roofing solution. It demanded a carefully considered approach that balanced technical performance, heritage preservation and minimal disruption to a fully operational high-profile environment. The result is a waterproofing system that not only resolves critical issues, but will safeguard the integrity of this historic building over time.

The Challenge

The complexity of the project was driven by the condition, diversity and sensitivity of the site. A comprehensive survey revealed widespread failure within the exisiting waterproofing system, with core samples identifying severe saturation and evidence of water ingress. Without intervention, this posed significant risks including structural degradation, internal damage and disruption to club facilities.

The roof itself presented a further challenge, comprising multiple areas of varying shapes, heights and configurations. It meant that designing a unified waterproofing solution across such a diverse structure required a highly detailed and iterative approach, particularly when introducing cut-to-falls schemes to eliminate ponding and improve drainage performance.

Proteus Waterproofing was appointed to deliver a £500,000 roof waterproofing refurbishment across this highly sensitive and prestigious site.

Operational sensitivity added another layer of complexity. As a private members' club with a long-standing reputation for deiscretion, strict protocols were required to ensure that works did not impact member experience or privacy. All activity had to be carefully managed within a live environment.

Weather conditions also played a significant role, with low temperatures and persistent rainfall affecting installation and curing times. At the same time, evolving client requirements and the introduction of new elements, including a domed roof light, required ongoing design adaption.

The Solution

Proteus designed and delivered a waterproofing system using its Pro-BW® liquid applied technology, supported by a fully integrated insulation and vapour control strategy.

The system build-up included:

• Pro-BW® Primer, resin and sealer system

• Pro-Force 450 reinforcement layer

• Tapered PIR insulation scheme (proteus Pro-Therm)

• Vapour control and carrier membranes

A key element of the solution was the implementation of a cut-to-falls insulation scheme, designed to ensure effective water management across the complex roof geometry. This eliminated existing drainage issues while improving thermal performance, achieving an area-weighted U-value of 0.15 W/m²K in line with current Building Regulations.

Where appropriate, Proteus also introduced an overlay solution, avoiding the need for full strip-out in certain areas. This reduced cost, programme time and disruption, while maintaining the integrity of the historic structure. The installation was delivered in carefully planned phases, allowing the club to remain fully operational throughout the works.

Quality Workmanship

The quality of workmanship delivered on this project, exceeded expectations particularly given the complexity of the site and the need to coordinate multiple trades. This required precise setting out and a deep understanding of both drainage and build-up requirements.

Close collaboration between Proteus' technical team and the contractor further ensured that every layer of the system was installed in accordance with the specification, with continuous communication enabling real-time adjustments where required.

Quality control was embedded throughout the project, resulting in minimal snagging despite the scale and complexity of the works. This reflects a proactive approach to workmanship, with issues identified and resolved before they could impact programme or performance.

Problem Solving and Project Management

The project stands out as a strong example of proactive problem solving and effective project management. One of the most significant decisions was the use of an overlay approach in selected areas, avoiding unnecessary strip-out and reducing both cost and environmental impact. This was informed by detailed survey data and core sampling, demonstrating a pragmatic and informed approach to design.

Proteus also developed over 30 alterations of design drawings to accommodate the evolving requirements of the client and the complexities of the structure. This iterative process ensured that the final solution was fully optimised for performance, compliance and practicality.

Logistical constraints were addressed through a 'just-in-time' delivery strategy, ensuring materials arrived precisely when required, eliminating the need for on-site storage and reducing disruption within the club's ground.

Detailed photographic reporting and regular site updates also provided full transparency and supporting quality assurance, enabling efficient issue resolution throughout the project.

Health, Safety and Environmental Management

Health and safety were central to the delivery of the project, partularly given the challenges of working at height and within a live, high-profile environment.

Comprehensive risk assessments were carried out, with strict protocols implemented including fall protection systems, controlled access zones and regular safety briefings. All operatives underwent site-specific inductions and training to ensure compliance with best practice and HSE guidelines.

Environmental considerations were also prioritised, with measures introduced to minimise noise, dust and waste. A zero-waste approach was adopted wherever possible, with materials carefully managed and recycled where appropriate.

Proteus' FORS Gold accreditation further supported sustainable delivery, ensuring efficient logistics and reduced carbon impact through controlled transport and supply chain practices.

The Look

While performance was paramount, the project also delivered a strong visual result that complements the club's historic character. Designated walkways were highlighted using contrasting colours, creating a clear and structured layout accross the roof. The application of a skid-resistant system not only enhanced safety, but also introduced a refined, textured finish that elevated the overall appearance.

The introduction of a domed roof light provided a striking architectural feature, bringing natural light into the building whilst seamlessly integrating with the waterproofing system. All this meant that the finished roof visually aligned with the elegance and heritage of The Hurlingham Club.