Restoring History: Hemmings Floor Restoration at the Prudential Assurance Building in Nottingham

At Hemmings Floor Restoration, we are proud to bring new life to historical treasures. Our recent project at the Prudential Assurance Building in Nottingham presented a unique challenge and an incredible opportunity to work within a Grade II-listed architectural masterpiece.

The Prudential Assurance Building: A Nottingham Icon

Located on King Street, overlooking the bustling Market Square, the Prudential Assurance Building is a symbol of Nottingham’s rich architectural heritage. Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, one of Britain’s most renowned architects, this grand building has stood since the 19th century as a testament to his prolific career. Waterhouse, famed for designing landmarks like the Natural History Museum in London, left an indelible mark on Nottingham with this intricate structure.

Now home to The Alchemist, a popular cocktail bar and restaurant, the building once housed the iconic Hard Rock Café, known for its rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. Above these vibrant venues lie floors 2, 3, and 4—hidden gems that held the potential for transformation.

Uncovering the Hidden Beauty

When Hemmings Floor Restoration was contacted, the office floors were concealed beneath layers of screed and glue. Beneath the debris, we discovered a stunning parquet floor, a hidden piece of history waiting to be restored.

After conducting a small test patch to assess the challenges, we began work on the second floor (180 sqm) in June. The floors were in rough shape, covered in screed and adhesive that made removal difficult, requiring innovative approaches to sanding and restoration.

The Restoration Process

Challenges Faced

• Material Removal: The screed and glue were tough on our abrasives, clogging and dulling them quickly.

• Ventilation: Painted-shut windows created poor airflow, adding to the difficulty of managing dust despite our PPE

• Edge Work: Conventional edge sanders struggled with the adhesive, necessitating the use of carbide blades for precision removal.

Innovative Solutions

Through trial and error, we determined the best methods:

1. Sanding Progression: We began with 16-grit aluminium oxide belts to remove the screed, gradually refining with zirconia and ceramic abrasives up to 120-grit mesh for a smooth finish.

2. Edge Work: A Metabo paint remover with carbide blades effectively tackled adhesive in tight corners.

3. Repairs: Parquet blocks removed from the hallways and top floor were cleaned and used to replace damaged areas, secured with Sikabond 5500s adhesive for long-term durability.

The Results

After many weeks of meticulous work, floors 2 and 3 were restored to their former glory. We used Bona Classic primer and three coats of Bona Traffic HD Matte to finish the surface, showcasing the intricate beauty of the parquet blocks.

Though the fourth floor was not part of the immediate restoration plan due to extensive water damage, we left the door open for future work should additional materials become available.

Preserving Nottingham’s Legacy

Restoring the floors of the Prudential Assurance Building was more than just a project; it was an opportunity to honour Nottingham’s architectural history. At Hemmings Floor Restoration, we take pride in revitalising the past for future generations to enjoy.