Renovation of the Royal Institute of British Architects in London

The Royal Institute of British Architects (short: RIBA) is the collective voice and authority of architecture in the UK and across the world. Architect membership, which currently exceeds 44,000, is recognized to the world over a symbol of professional excellence. .

The Art Deco headquarters, built in 1937 at 66 Portland Place, Central London, is the focus of this excellence and is visited by many seeking guidance, education and inspiration.

The imposing Florence Hall is the focal point of the building, and the stone floor panels inset into and contrasting with the original “Chuglum” (Indian Silverwood) wood floor sets an impressive back drop to this outstanding space.

Used regularly for conferences, meetings and events; from weddings to fashion shows, the wood floor was careworn. Due to multiple renovations over its almost 80 years history, the work to bring back the original beauty had to be carried out with a sympathetic touch.

CFA member PDQ Contract Flooring were chosen to take on this important project and, in consultation with the house architect Martin Pascoe, PALLMANN MAGIC OIL ERGO was specified due to its natural protective properties, bringing the colour of the Chuglum back to life, combined with high resistance to foot traffic and slip.

 Zero VOC and fast, 12 hour curing, MAGIC OIL can be patched in and over-coated easily and floors can be put back into operation quickly and without odour. So with the help of a specifically designed ongoing maintenance programme, the Florence Hall floor will stay protected and looking great for many more years to come.