Westminster Reference Library, London

Cahill Design Consultants (CDC) was appointed to provide fire safety engineering advice and guidance in support of the refurbishment of the Westminster Reference Library on St Martins Street in London.

The refurbishment options for Westminster Reference Library had to abide by Grade 2 listing building heritage requirements, meaning that the external envelope and some internal areas are protected and could not be changed.

The building comprises a Basement, Basement Mezzanine, Ground, Ground Mezzanine, First, First Mezzanine, and Second, Third and Fourth floors. All floors
of the building are occupied by the Library except for the Fourth floor, where there are residential apartments.

The future strategy of Westminster Reference Library is currently under review with emphasis on achieving a net zero carbon emissions corporate estate by 2030 and making the building accessible to all.

CDC reviewed the existing fire safety options available to the Westminster Reference Library; regarding current building regulations and wheelchair disable access.