The task facing the design team was to transform the institutional image of the entire site into a more domestic aesthetic, whilst also addressing the on going roof maintenance problems.

With the client specifying a tight contract programme for the whole conversion works to be completed, the Capella clear span system's speed of erection became an additional factor in the design teams selection approach.

By spanning wall to wall, the Capella System avoided the need to further load the existing flat felt roof. The dramatic conversion was completed by the use of a lightweight granular tile effect sheet system in a bold red colour.

"The Capella system used was light and flexible enough to accommodate the varying plan shapes. Capella proved better than many of the 'prop' built alternatives due to the need for large spaces for service runs and maintenance, speed of erection, durability and limited degree of construction noise which was of particular importance at the site".