Glazing Technologies

Site Progress at The Old Reading Rooms in Brighton.

Arched sliding doors for a Grade 2 “at-risk” listed building

The Old Reading Rooms have been under consistent works for over a year (as of October 2023). IQ Projects worked closely with the Brighton City Council to help bring a new life to the historic reading rooms, originally used for committee meetings back in the 1830’s.

The reading rooms are an architectural stamp of the 1900’s, featuring large archway openings and intricate support pillars. Brighton City Councilor Tom Druitt said: “I’m delighted to see that this project is underway to transform this section of the seafront. This area has long been under-utilised at a prime location of our coastline.” Works had begun with the goal of creating a fully accessible community space which could be made available to rent out to a café company or anyone suitable for the renovated reading rooms.

As of late 2023 the Reading room renovation is now fully completed with two spaces open ready to be rented.

The IQ Glazing has brought modern design to the history-clad buildings. A series of casement doors, fixed glazing and sliding doors have been installed to bring an abundance of natural light into the rooms, while ensuring the buildings are weatherproof and solar gain proof. It was important for the council to retain the classical architectural quirks of the pillars and archways, therefore the glazing has been installed just a few millimeters behind the front façade.  

Being adjacent to the famous Brighton seafront, the high wind and water levels were originally a concern. Due to IQ’s marine grade glazing and extensive product testing the council could be assured that the glass systems could withstand the tests of the harsh coast conditions.  

The Brighton Reading Rooms have now been protected while the city council waits for the correct tenants to open the doors. The glazing has been protected and the IQ Projects team visit the site to check on the project when they are in the Brighton area.  

If you have any questions for the team, contact us here. If you would like to fill the vacant space, contact the Brighton City Council here.