Newton Waterproofing strikes right note with basement solution for world-famous music college

When London’s world-famous Royal College of Music underwent major renovations and needed a comprehensive waterproofing solution, there was only one company to turn to. 

As the leading independent designers and suppliers of structural waterproofing systems, Newton Waterproofing and Newton Specialist Contractor MacLennan were perfectly placed to provide a completely dry environment in the iconic building’s vast basements. 

Opened in 1883 by the future King Edward VII, the Royal College of Music in South Kensington is one of the world’s greatest musical conservatoires for gifted musicians.  

Recent major renovations included incorporating advanced acoustic, air handling and climate control measures to allow even the most delicate and valuable instruments from the College museum to be played. 

As part of the project, MacLennan designed and installed a waterproofing system across five different basement and sub-basement levels that would become auditoriums, a library, an atrium, and music rooms, all with specific and bespoke requirements. 

The ideal solution 

To start, Newton 104 crystalline waterproofing was applied to the structure to protect against the capillary movement of water. Movement joints between the new and existing structure were also protected with Newton 106 FlexProof. 

To provide a guaranteed solution however, a full Newton CDM System was then installed throughout the internal spaces to make sure any ingressing water is safely captured and managed. 

All levels were also linked together with Newton’s maintainable Basedrain drainage system, and no less than five of Newton’s Titan-Pro sump chambers with dual NP400 pumps were installed to remove the captured water.   

The perfect result 

The waterproofing was completed within budget, on time, and backed by MacLennan’s full installation guarantee and PI cover on the design, while MacLennan were able to schedule the work to allow students to access the building during the project. 

MacLennan’s MD Ian MacLennan commented: “This is yet another extremely large and prestigious project we have partnered with Newton Waterproofing on to deliver a guaranteed solution.  

“As always, the Newton team are great to work with, as they are with every project we carry out together. Great products, great systems, and great service means that we can always provide the best result for the client.” 

For Newton Waterproofing’s MD Warren Muschialli, it’s yet another success story for the company and its Specialist Basement Contractors. 

“Listed buildings are part our country’s heritage and in many cases are of huge importance, much-loved and need to be protected. 

We were thrilled to have been involved in a project as high-profile and iconic as the Royal College of Music and it’s yet another project that showcases our waterproofing systems on a massive scale,” said Warren. 

“It’s also a fine example of our elite Specialist Basement Contractors. MacLennan have previously dealt with some of the largest waterproofing projects in the UK, so were perfect for providing a solution across five levels on this project.” 

The best pedigree 

Waterproofing experts for over 170 years, Newton Waterproofing provide the best waterproofing and damp proofing systems for all structures, from new and existing domestic properties to large-scale commercial developments.  

The company supply an advanced range of waterproofing materials which allow them to design and install effective, robust, and third-party accredited Type A, B and C waterproofing systems in accordance with current legislation and best practice. 

Newton also work closely with specialist contractors and specifiers to develop and maintain their knowledge of waterproofing methods and products with online CPD webinars and e-learning modules. As a reward for their efforts, attendees of Newton’s online RIBA approved CPD webinars will receive a £5 voucher for Uber Eats. 

For the right waterproofing help and advice with your next project, contact Newton Waterproofing on 01732 360 095 or email info@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk.