Whitechapel Roof Conversion
The Whitechapel Conversion project showcased the full breadth of Sui Generis’ composite expertise, combining the precision of our factory-based GRP manufacturing team with the on-site skills of our specialist installation and lining engineers.
This complex restoration and conversion project required us to faithfully reproduce original architectural features while delivering a durable, long-term solution that could withstand the challenges of modern environmental exposure.
Combining Traditional Aesthetics with Modern Materials
One of the most distinctive elements of the building was a decorative turret and guttering system that had suffered extensive deterioration over time. The original materials had reached the end of their service life, leading to leaks, corrosion, and structural instability.
Rather than repairing the failing structure using traditional methods, our client sought a solution that would preserve the building’s architectural character while eliminating the need for ongoing maintenance. Our team proposed the use of Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) to replicate the existing features, providing a seamless balance between authentic visual replication and superior modern performance.
Precision Replication and Finishing
Working from detailed surveys and moulds taken from the original components, our factory team meticulously recreated each feature in Fibreglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP). Every curve, joint, and detail was faithfully reproduced to ensure the replicas matched the original appearance exactly.
To achieve the perfect aesthetic, the finished GRP components were colour-matched and textured to mimic the look of aged copper, creating a stunningly realistic weathered finish. The result delivers the charm of traditional materials with none of the drawbacks of corrosion or decay.
Long-Term Performance and Sustainability
The new FRP turret and guttering system are not only visually indistinguishable from the original but also offer decades of durability and virtually zero maintenance requirements. GRP’s inherent resistance to UV, water ingress, and environmental degradation ensures the structure will retain both its form and function for many years to come.
This project perfectly demonstrates how Sui Generis combines craftsmanship, innovation, and material expertise to preserve architectural heritage while delivering sustainable, low-maintenance solutions. By blending modern composites with historical design, we helped extend the life of this unique building, ensuring its legacy continues well into the future.