Issue 38 Summer web 23 - Flipbook - Page 65
For an entire year, the team tirelessly sifted through
archives to conduct meticulous research into the
building's distinctive features. Their objective was to
determine which elements of the structure were indispensable and therefore needed to be preserved. In this quest,
the team prioritised design and specification aspects that
would not only restore but also uphold Stapehill Abbey's
rich history. After much contemplation, Scott Worsfold's
architectural team were pleased to find Brett Martin’s
Cascade cast iron effect rainwater system while searching
for rainwater drainage systems.
installed to connect to the original cast iron gutter.
Elsewhere a variety of gutter and downpipe systems were
installed on the diverse roof types across Stapehill Abbey.
Brett Martin's Cascade system is a game-changer for
architects seeking to procure products that are considerate of the requirements of conservation projects. The
Cascade system is a result of Brett Martin's innovative
design approach that achieves the appearance of
traditional cast iron guttering while providing all the
benefits of modern materials. Given the intricate nature
of the abbey's building plans, the team needed a system
that could cater to both domestic and industrial-scale
roofs. The majority of the roofs utilised the Cascade
115mm Deepstyle gutter and 68mm round downpipes,
whereas the Cascade 170mm Deepstyle gutter and
105mm round downpipes were employed for larger roofs
that required a higher capacity system whilst the addition
of dated hoppers stand as a reminder of the year the
restoration took place.
Modern innovation with a traditional touch
Although the design team was eager to specify
Brett Martin's Cascade system, their excitement was
short-lived as the local authority rejected their proposal.
The authorities denied the use of a plastic rainwater
drainage system, stating that it would stray too far from
one of the building's original historical features. However,
the architects remained persistent and continued to
pursue the matter. They decided to present the system in
person to the conservation officer and to their delight, the
officer was astounded by how seamlessly the innovative
Cascade system blended in with the original cast-iron
gutter system, so much so that it was impossible to
differentiate between the two in some cases, such as with
the belfry tower, where the Cascade downpipes were
For this restoration, Classic Black was the colour of choice
and closely matched the existing cast iron guttering at
Stapehill Abbey. Seven other heritage colour options are
available in the Cascade range, reflecting the tradition for
coloured cast iron systems without the need to prime and
paint. Cascade is also UV stabilised for a maintenance-
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