King's Hall Leisure Centre
King’s Hall Leisure Centre
As both engineers and conservation advisors, we have been advising Hackney Council on the repair, extension and refurbishment of this Grade II* listed public leisure site.
One of the most significant projects has involved structural engineering and conservation work for the King’s Hall Leisure Centre, formerly Hackney Baths. Originally designed with three swimming pools, slipper baths, showers, laundry, officers and a superintendent’s residence, this Grade II listed former bathhouse dates from 1897 and has undergone several alterations.
The buildings now operate as a leisure centre, with an original pool that remains in use alongside others that have been converted for gym and sports hall use. Although the building is an important social and historical landmark, its condition continues to deteriorate, leading to increasing repair costs and a declining experience for users.
We have been working closely with Hackney Council on their portfolio of leisure centres for many years. These have involved producing condition reports and urgent repairs for the structures. We first acted as engineers to advise the Council on the condition of the building fabric and prepared condition reports to inform the Council’s maintenance programme. We also assisted by designing sensitive repairs to the historic fabric.
We then began work on a major refurbishment programme. As engineers and conservation advisers, we are advising on the design and development of the proposals. These include new communal spaces; a new accessible entrance onto Clapton Square; a brand-new teaching pool in place of the existing sports hall; more studio space; a new two court sports hall; new changing facilities; and a comprehensive refurbishment of all the existing facilities.
Client: Hackney Council
Architect: FaulknerBrowns