FDS were contracted to strip out and dismantle a large mezzanine structure and surrounding encasements within the former gallery.
This was an intensely involved scheme due to its surroundings and robust construction. Spanning around 500m2 the mezzanine structure contained just under half a mile of steel beams and trusses, and a similar quantity of timber joist and two feature concrete staircases. All dismantling and demolition had to be planned with a view to minimising noise, dust and vibration within a live museum setting, as well as being sensitive to the retained mosaic floor below. Elsewhere, there were various bespoke structures that were built and designed to hold frescos, sculptures, murals and the like to be dismantled.
Notwithstanding the complexity of the in-situ dismantling works, the greatest challenge was clearing the resulting material from site. Having worked on previous galleries within the V&A, FDS was well-prepared for this at tender stage. A total of 130m of protection had to be laid each morning, waste removed through prime thoroughfares and then all protection lifted and vacuumed prior to public opening at 945am. This called for meticulous coordination with the FM team and the events coordinator at the museum as during several mornings various receptions and breakfast events were held in surrounding rooms.
This project proved to be a seminal moment in FDS’ wider sustainability mission. Through aid and introduction from our main client, we partnered with YesMake, a material led design organization. They specialise in taking second hand materials and inputting them into various community projects in and around London.
On this project, they were able to take all of the plywood decking, and almost all of the timber joist and secondary steel trusses, as well as bespoke stone seating and stands. These were all stored, certified and inventoried at their warehouse and are now awaiting deployment into a new life.
Two main lessons learned from this project. The first is that genuine re-use of bespoke and tampered material is possible. YesMake are developing an approach that is far less speculative than what is currently available at scale. The second is that planning projects meticulously cannot be overstated in its importance. The stakeholder management of this project was so tight; every member of our supply chain had to be briefed and ultimately vetted by their ability and commitment not to compromise on compliance with the constraints at play.
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Address: 64 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7JF
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8088 2539
Email: operations@firstdemolition.co.uk
We’re probably better defined by what we don’t cover — yet. That would be nuclear, rail and marine, where we don’t currently have the depth of experience required to properly guide a project. Across all other sectors, we bring extensive experience and a proven track record.
Yes. A significant portion of our work takes place in live environments — from partially occupied office buildings, to schools, hotels and museums. Each setting brings its own considerations. Over time, we’ve developed practical approaches to minimise disruption, maintain safety, and manage the impact of our works on surrounding areas and stakeholders.
We take a proactive approach from the outset. During tender stage, we flag potential risks based on experience and precedent, and where possible, recommend exploratory works to reduce uncertainty before the project begins. Where this isn’t feasible, we provide guidance on likely impacts — allowing clients to plan for time and cost contingencies with greater confidence. We operate transparently and with a strong understanding of contractual obligations, ensuring a fair and considered approach throughout.
We see our role as more than delivery. We work closely with clients and consultant teams to navigate challenges as they arise. This can include supporting early-stage planning, contributing to feasibility exercises, or helping shape the approach before works begin. We’re also well connected, and are always happy to introduce trusted partners where additional expertise is needed.
We operate an integrated management system certified by BSI to ISO 45001 and ISO 9001 standards. Beyond compliance, we focus on how standards are applied in practice — from highly trained teams to clear, visual methods on site. We’ve also developed our own tools and initiatives to improve communication, reporting and environmental performance across our projects.
Today — because the earlier we’re involved, the more we can influence the outcome.
