We’re currently working at the Devon and Exeter Institute, helping to restore the beautiful iconic roof lanterns above the library.

Carrek won the contract to restore the Georgian library roof of this Grade 1 listed building, overseen by conservation architect Simon Cartlidge. Historic England and the Heritage Lottery Fund have granted funding.

Heavy snowfall in December 2010 led to cracks appearing in the plasterwork around the domed lanterns which allow light into the library, and further investigation revealed that the Georgian roof timbers had begun to crack.

In fact the whole roof had sunk by about five inches, and the building was deemed the most at risk building in Exeter – just as it was gearing up to celebrate its bicentenary

Our part in the project involves working on the iconic roof lanterns. They’re being carefully restored to include our bespoke secondary glazing, which as well as looking fantastic, will greatly improve the thermal insulation in this historic building – and make the library a warmer, more welcoming place to enjoy a read!

On initial visits to the site, we made our manufacturing measurements which allowed us to create the templates for the curved-in-plan units, for our craftsmen to then produce.

We’re hoping to have one lantern completed before Christmas, and the second early next year.

We can’t wait to see our glazing in place, and to be able to show you photos of the finished project in 2017.