Brunts Building Restoration

Preserving a Historical Landmark.

The Brunts Building, constructed in 1915, remains a significant piece of Mansfield Town Centre’s history. Named after Samuel Brunts, this Grade II listed building has housed some of the town’s most cherished establishments over the years. Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant part of the community, with Brunts Chambers occupying part of the space.

As part of the Townscape Heritage Project, Vaughandale Construction was entrusted with restoring the Brunts Building. This commercial construction project is focused on revitalising its historical charm while modernising the space for contemporary use. The restoration includes the refurbishment of seven retail units and the addition of three new apartments to the upper floors, alongside carefully replacing shopfronts to maintain its original character.

Innovations in Fire Safety and Acoustic Comfort.

To meet modern fire safety regulations, Vaughandale has undertaken critical upgrades to align with recent legislation. Each retail unit with apartments above will feature fire-rated, noise-reducing ceilings, ensuring safety while enhancing comfort for tenants and customers. During these upgrades, the nail salon operating in one of the units were temporarily relocated to a neighbouring building, minimising disruption to their business.

In the top-floor apartments, Velux Smoke Ventilation windows will be installed near designated ‘safe haven’ areas. These windows allow fire services to clear smoke effectively, enhancing the safety of residents and visitors.

To ensure the Brunts Building provides superior comfort, acoustic innovations are a key feature of the refurbishment. The ceilings in each apartment are equipped with acoustic hangers and insulation to retain heat and reduce noise. The flooring utilises the Renovo Acoustic Flooring System, designed to further minimise sound transmission while improving thermal efficiency. External walls are lined with insulated plasterboard, and new internal partitions are constructed with acoustic insulation, delivering a high standard of thermal and acoustic performance throughout the building and between neighbouring units.

Respecting Historical Features.

Preserving the building’s heritage is central to this project. The upper floors feature several historical fireplaces, as well as an Aga, which have been protected and remain intact as a nod to the Brunts Building’s storied past.

These features reflect the building’s unique character, connecting its history with its modern transformation.

Overcoming Challenges in a Busy Town Centre.

The restoration of the Brunts Building presented several logistical and structural challenges. Situated on a busy one-way system, Vaughandale collaborated with Mansfield District Council to temporarily reroute buses during scaffolding work, minimising disruption. The lack of on-site parking required securing local permits and careful coordination of deliveries.

Despite a temporary power cut caused by a leak in an existing bathroom, the team adapted quickly by shifting focus to tasks such as gutter clearing and general clean-up, ensuring progress remained on track.

This project has been a unique blend of respecting Mansfield’s history while preparing it for the future. The addition of modern safety features, acoustic improvements, and energy-efficient solutions ensures this building will remain a landmark for years to come
Project Manager at Vaughandale Construction

Environmental Responsibility.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the project. Vaughandale has used reclaimed materials and traditional repair methods wherever possible, reducing the environmental impact of the restoration. The team also incorporated breathable drylining systems, ensuring compatibility with the building’s listed status while enhancing thermal performance.

Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this project aims to preserve the building’s legacy while transforming it into a modern, functional space for businesses and tenants.

Social Value and Community Impact.

The Brunts Building restoration isn’t just about construction; it’s about community. Vaughandale has gone above and beyond to minimise disruption for existing tenants, including coordinating temporary relocation plans to support their continued operation.

Site manager Duane has fostered a strong relationship with tenants, even learning Vietnamese from one of the retail occupants to improve communication and build trust. This personal touch underscores Vaughandale’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for the local community.

Excellence in Design and Safety.

The Brunts Building Restoration showcases Vaughandale Construction’s expertise in combining historical preservation with cutting-edge modernisation. By incorporating advanced fire safety systems, acoustic innovations, and sustainable materials, this project exemplifies the company’s commitment to excellence in commercial construction.