The University of Cambridge’s appointment of AMA Chartered Architects involved the conservation repair and remodelling of the Historic Cupola.

 

The standing seam copper bell roof cupola above the staircase turret required essential roof refurbishment in order to maintain the weatherproofing of the structure. The original copper roofing had reached the end of its lifespan, as evidence of roof leaks due to star fractures in the copper sheeting had been identified.

 

The cupola’s original design by Sir T G Jackson did not include for any guttering to the copper cupola; any rainwater run-off sheds onto the staircase facades below. This, over time, not only led to Verdigris discoloration of the stonework below, but also water ingress and damp inside the staircase and adjacent walls.

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