Ards Community Network Centre

Extensive renovations of a Grade B2 Listed, 3½-storey office building, including internal and external basement. The purpose of the works was to meet DDA Regulations, provide conference, training and staff rooms, and to improve the building’s energy efficiency.

A new entrance ramp with steps, new mature hedging and an exhibition area were provided at the main entrance on Frances Street.

A new 4-storey steel-frame lobby extension and lift core was provided on the rear elevation, to provide access to each floor level. The steel frame was founded on reinforced concrete pad foundations and tied into the existing structure at each floor level.

The existing basement footprint was extended to create a new conference area. This was achieved by removing the existing perimeter retaining wall on the front elevation and constructing a reinforced “core” retaining wall further back. Cantilevered steel balconies were constructed at ground and first floor levels to the rear.

Existing dormer windows were removed at the rear and larger zinc-clad dormers constructed with floor-to-ceiling glazing for optimal sea views.

A new single-storey plant room with “green” roof was constructed at the rear of the property. (Images courtesy of Donnelly O’Neill)

Click to expand the photos below