UK-based builder Beard has begun renovation works on the Sir Norman Foster-designed Spectrum Building in Swindon, England.
Beard will rebuild the 260,000ft² building’s exterior, including its iconic yellow steel umbrella poles and structure, for an estimated order value of £4.7m.
British architect Sir Norman Foster originally built the structure for French car manufacturer Renault, which debuted in 1982 as the 'Renault Centre'.
In 2013, it was designated as a Grade II listed building, representing the characteristics of the British high-tech movement of the period.
In addition to constructing a new liquid-applied roof coating, the exterior cladding and fire escapes of the property will be refurbished and decorated.
The Beard team will also replace the current mechanical, electrical, and fire systems within the building.
It has collaborated with Davis Roofing to install the Polyroof liquid roof system and Bagnalls Decorations and Just Spray to refurbish the steel frame and silver wall panels.
Colour matching the famous yellow paint for the steel frame was difficult due to the building's classification. However, Beard and Bagnalls were able to analyse various samples in an inconspicuous spot within the structure to discover the greatest colour match.
Beard's Swindon director Jamie Harwood said: “As a proud Swindon firm with roots dating back more than 130 years in the town, we’re immensely proud to be involved in the regeneration of another one of Swindon’s most iconic buildings.
“While it may not be your traditional listed building, it still presents its own challenges and calls upon our expertise in the heritage sector to ensure the project is completed both sensitively and to the very highest of standards.”