Home
Roof support work JLP01_08_060847
Buy from $99.99
Buy from $11.99
Buy from $39.99
Buy from $24.99
Buy from $94.99
Buy from $61.90
Buy from $119.99
Buy from $16.99
Historic England Photo Prints and Wall Art
Roof support work JLP01_08_060847
COMMONWEALTH INSTITUTE, KENSINGTON HIGH STREET, KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA, GREATER LONDON. Workers inserting a wedge in the timber formwork at the top of a roof support column during construction of the Commonwealth Institute exhibition hall.
Laing built the Commonwealth Institute between October 1960 and October 1962 to replace the former Imperial Institute that was to be demolished to make way for new facilities at Imperial College. The building consisted of a four-storey administrative block housing a library, restaurant, board room and conference hall and a separate two-storey b lock containing a cinema with an art gallery above, but the focus of the project was the exhibition hall with its hyperbolic paraboloid roof, the first of its kind constructed in Great Britain. The exhibition, designed by James Gardner, provided spaces where each of the Commonwealth nations could showcase their achievements and characteristics, primarily to school children as teaching aids to enliven history and geography lessons.
The shell arch of the central roof section was of reinforced concrete, cast in situ using timber formwork with rough sawn boards to provide a textured internal surface whilst the four outer " warps" were constructed using precast beams and wood wool slabs, blocks of shredded timber bound together in a cement paste and left visible from the interior. The entire roof was then clad in copper sheeting over a layer of vermiculite. It covers an area of 33, 700sqft, 183 feet square with the central section 93 feet square and ranges between 30ft high at its lowest and 80ft at the peaks. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England Archive
Media ID 24320032
1960s Construction People At Work Teamwork
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals > Mollusks > Top Shells
> Arts > Artists > G > James Gardner
> Arts > Artists > W > James Wood
> Arts > Portraits > Pop art gallery > Street art portraits
> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Greater London > Related Images
> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Boroughs > Kensington and Chelsea
> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Museums > British Library
> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Towns > Chelsea
> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Towns > Kensington
> Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Building the Commonwealth Institute
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION
We are proud to offer a range of customisation including Cropping, Captions, and Filters. Zoom Cropping can be adjusted in the Basket.
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate roof support work during the construction of the Commonwealth Institute exhibition hall in Kensington, London. The skilled workers can be seen inserting a wedge into the timber formwork at the top of a roof support column, showcasing their expertise and attention to detail. Built by Laing between 1960 and 1962, this iconic building replaced the former Imperial Institute and served as a platform for each Commonwealth nation to showcase their achievements. Designed by James Gardner, the exhibition aimed to enliven history and geography lessons for school children. The highlight of this architectural marvel was its hyperbolic paraboloid roof, which was a first-of-its-kind in Great Britain. The central section featured a reinforced concrete shell arch cast using timber formwork with rough sawn boards providing an intriguing textured internal surface. Surrounding it were four outer "warps" constructed using precast beams and wood wool slabs bound together with cement paste, creating an eye-catching visual from within. Covering an impressive area of 33,700 square feet, with peaks reaching up to 80 feet high, this magnificent structure stands as a testament to both engineering prowess and artistic vision. Clad in copper sheeting over vermiculite insulation, it seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. This remarkable photograph is part of A© Historic England Archive's collection and serves as a timeless reminder of the craftsmanship involved in constructing such architectural wonders that continue to inspire generations.
Framed Prints
Discover the captivating history of construction with our Framed Prints from Media Storehouse, featuring the iconic image "Roof support work JLP01_08_060847" by Historic England Archive. This stunning photograph, copyrighted by Joh from Historic England, captures the intricate process of workers inserting a wedge in the timber formwork at the top of a roof support column during construction. Bring a piece of historical architecture and engineering into your home or office with this unique and thought-provoking artwork. The high-quality print is beautifully framed and ready to hang, making it an excellent addition to any space.
Photo Prints
Discover the captivating history of Kensington and Chelsea with our exquisite Media Storehouse Photographic Print featuring the iconic image JLP01_08_060847 by Historic England Archive. This breathtaking photograph, copyrighted by Joh from Historic England, captures the essence of a bygone era as workers meticulously insert a wedge in the timber formwork at the top of a roof support column during construction. Transport yourself back in time with this evocative image, a stunning addition to any home or office space. The perfect gift for history enthusiasts or those who appreciate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship.
Poster Prints
Introducing the Media Storehouse range of historic poster prints, featuring the captivating image "Roof support work JLP01_08_060847" by © Historic England Archive. This evocative photograph, taken by Joh from Historic England, transports us back in time to the Kensington High Street in Greater London. Witness the intricate process of constructing a roof support column, as workers meticulously insert a wedge into the timber formwork. Add a touch of history and character to your walls with this stunning, authentic print from our Media Storehouse collection.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Discover the intricate details and rich history of Roof support work JLP01_08_060847 with our Media Storehouse Jigsaw Puzzle by Historic England. This captivating puzzle features an authentic image of workers inserting a wedge in the timber formwork at the top of a roof support column during construction, captured by Joh from Historic England. Immerse yourself in the past as you piece together this intriguing puzzle, brought to you by the Commonwealth Institute, Kensington High Street, Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London. Perfect for history enthusiasts, puzzle lovers, or anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding activity. Engage your mind, connect with the past, and enjoy the satisfaction of completing a beautiful and meaningful puzzle.
