In existing buildings, safety requirements can change years after the original design was completed. To meet the latest standards, a space might need new balustrading or fall protection, but to accommodate these changes, there’s no reason to change the building itself or the design intent behind it.
At MMA Architectural, we have found this particularly important when working with heritage buildings and significant sites. Introducing something new needs to be done with care, so that current safety requirements can be met without overpowering the original structure, hiding important details or changing the character of the space.
The aim is to meet today’s safety requirements while respecting what is already there. This is where sleek, adaptable and unobtrusive systems, such as Jakob Rope Systems, can offer a practical solution.
Ripon Cathedral
At Ripon Cathedral, Webnet was introduced to provide safe balustrading along maintenance walkways within the Grade I listed building. Its transparent, lightweight appearance means the new safety system provides protection without visually competing with the existing architecture.
Read more about Ripon Cathedral and see more photos here
Jakob offers a range of flexible solutions that can be incorporated into new projects or added to existing structures at a later stage. This gives building owners and designers the flexibility to respond to changing safety requirements without having to redesign or conceal the original architecture.
Stainless steel Webnet can be used for fall protection, infill and barrier applications while keeping spaces open and visually light. Its flexible, transparent construction helps preserve views and retain the natural light and feeling of openness within a space.
London Monument
At the iconic London Monument, Webnet was used to form a balustrade with anti-fall stainless steel netting above the viewing platform, providing protection for visitors while keeping the landmark’s open character and panoramic views across London. The discreet stainless steel system allows modern safety requirements to be met while respecting the Monument and its historic surroundings.
Read more about London Monument here
For balustrading and edge protection, stainless steel rope systems offer a clean and lightweight alternative that can work across contemporary, existing and heritage projects. The systems can be adapted to suit different layouts, geometries and fixing conditions, allowing the safety solution to work around the building rather than asking the building to work around it.
This is particularly useful when working with structures that were never designed to accommodate modern safety systems. Retrofitting requires a thoughtful approach, considering the existing materials, proportions and architectural details, as well as how the new elements will be installed and maintained over time.
Kidwelly Castle
At Kidwelly Castle, Webnet frames were used to secure a bridge within the historic castle, helping to keep visitors safe while preserving views across the site. The transparent stainless steel system provides discreet protection that sits comfortably within the character of the 12th-century castle and its surroundings.
Read more about Kidwelly Castle here
Together, these projects show that modern safety systems don’t have to feel out of place in historic settings. They can be carefully integrated, using lightweight and transparent materials that provide the protection required while allowing the original architecture to remain the focus.
When the materials, fixings and layout are considered as part of the architecture, safety doesn’t have to become the main feature. It can be introduced where it’s needed and when it’s needed, while allowing the original design to remain visible.
The aim isn’t to make the safety system stand out. It’s to make it feel like it belongs as a carefully considered, modern addition to the building.
If you have a project that requires a safety solution, get in touch with our technical team. We can help you develop a bespoke solution that meets your safety requirements while working with the existing building, structure and design.
