D&D ROOFING

The White House

Project Overview

The White House is a striking example of 1930s architecture, originally constructed during the brief heyday of modern Art Deco design by the late Sir Billy Butlin, the British holiday camp pioneer. The building reflects the ambition and elegance of its era and stands as a testament to early modernist construction.

Following Sir Billy Butlin’s retirement in 1969 and his passing in 1980, the building stood unoccupied for several years and was subsequently converted to holiday accommodation supplemented by 4 detached holiday chalets on the site. This change of use and seasonal occupation has in turn lead to significant deterioration of the structure and fabric of the property. Our client, no stranger to complex refurbishment projects, acquired the property with a clear vision: to restore and enhance this iconic structure while bringing it fully in line with modern regulations and performance standards.

The Brief

The client required a comprehensive flat roofing solution that would:

Significantly improve thermal performance
Provide long-term waterproofing integrity
Enhance overall aesthetics
Meet current building regulations
Deliver a robust, warrantied system suitable for a high-end refurbishment

Attention to detail was paramount throughout the project, a value clearly shared by all parties involved.

Collaboration & Craftsmanship

A special mention must be given to Wood Construction, whose exceptional quality of craftsmanship and execution played a vital role in the success of this project. Their precision and professionalism not only elevated the overall appearance of the building but also created an ideal substrate for the roofing installation, allowing our works to be completed efficiently and to the highest standard.

Architectural Leadership & Design Excellence

Equal credit must be given to David Mc Cormack of MAP Consult, whose architectural leadership was outstanding throughout the project. David’s exceptional eye for detail and deep understanding of both historic context and modern performance requirements played a crucial role in the success of the refurbishment. His guidance, coordination, and proactive problem-solving ensured that design intent was maintained while accommodating the technical demands of a high-performance roofing system. His assistance was truly invaluable, helping to achieve a result that is both visually refined and technically robust.

Roofing System Specification

The chosen solution was a Sika Plan Single Ply Membrane System, selected for its durability, performance, and suitability for both refurbishment and new-build elements.

Roof Build-Up – New Build Sections:

18mm Plywood Deck
Sikaroof® Primer 600
S-Vap® 5000 E SA Vapour Control Layer
150mm Sikatherm® GT PIR Insulation
Sikaplan® SGK-18 Single Ply Membrane
SBV PVC Protection Sheet

Adhesives Used:

Sarnacol® 2142
Sikaroof® Adhesive 200

Drainage Components:

S-Scupper PVC Round Outlets

Performance & Warranty

This roofing system delivers excellent thermal efficiency, outstanding waterproofing performance, and a clean, contemporary finish that complements the restored character of the building. The installation is backed by a 20-year Performance Plus Guarantee, providing long-term reassurance to the client.

Conclusion

The refurbishment of The White House demonstrates how modern roofing technology can be seamlessly integrated into historic architecture. Through careful planning, skilled collaboration, and high-performance materials, this project has successfully transformed a long-neglected landmark building into a structure that meets modern expectations while respecting and maintaining its architectural heritage.

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