Type C Waterproofing for Sprüth Magers Art Gallery, London

Products: Type C Waterproofing, Cavity Drain membrane

The building, located on Grafton Street in Mayfair, London, is home to the Sprüth Magers Art Gallery—the London branch of one of Germany’s leading contemporary galleries. The property has been occupied by the gallery since 2007 but, in recent years, had fallen into disrepair. As part of a comprehensive renovation programme to restore the site to its former 19th-century character, a substantial Type C waterproofing package was required to protect the lower ground floors.

Advanced Preservations was appointed to deliver a compliant, fully guaranteed waterproofing system to support the restoration effort. Our task was to ensure long-term protection against water ingress and condensation in an environment where both structural performance and interior conditions were critical for the preservation and display of high-value artwork.

Challenges of creating a dry and stable space

The gallery’s basement level presented multiple challenges typical of a commercial retrofit in central London. The existing structure exhibited signs of damp ingress, while the planned refurbishment required a dry and stable internal environment suitable for housing sensitive materials.

In addition to meeting BS8102:2022 (Grade 3 habitable) standards, the waterproofing needed to integrate smoothly with the gallery’s fit-out programme and accommodate other subcontractors working concurrently on site. Discreet installation, minimal disruption, and long-term reliability were key priorities for the client.

Our Waterproofing Solution

Advanced Preservations designed and installed a Type C cavity drain membrane system to the walls and floors throughout the basement areas. This system allows moisture that enters the structure to be safely controlled and channelled to a managed drainage route, protecting interior finishes and maintaining a dry internal climate.

Given the building’s historic character and its role in housing sensitive artworks, a Type C cavity drainage system was the clear choice. This approach ensured full control over water ingress while maintaining flexibility and discretion in a space where both preservation and aesthetics were paramount

We supplied and installed high-performance drainage channels along with sumps and twin pump systems to provide continuous moisture management and peace of mind in the event of high water levels or power failure. All installations were carried out in accordance with BS8102:2022 and aligned with the expectations of the gallery’s architects and conservation team.

Coordination & Execution

Working alongside the main contractor 3 Interiors and a number of high-spec subcontractors, our team delivered the waterproofing works within the required programme window, ensuring minimal disruption to the wider fit-out schedule.

Close coordination with site management allowed us to phase the works logically, maintaining access for follow-on trades while ensuring the integrity and quality of our installation. Our in-house team managed all aspects of the project from preparation and product specification through to installation, sealing, and final handover.

The Outcome

The result is a fully protected basement space that not only meets modern performance standards but also supports the gallery’s mission to present contemporary art in a space worthy of its significance. The successful integration of structural protection into a heritage setting demonstrates our ability to deliver complex waterproofing solutions in culturally important buildings.

Why Advanced Preservations?

With decades of experience in commercial basement waterproofing, Advanced Preservations is a trusted delivery partner for architects, developers, and contractors across London and the South East. Our in-house expertise covers everything from structural detailing to high-performance membrane installation, allowing us to work seamlessly on complex commercial projects.

We bring compliance, reliability, and specialist knowledge to every project—whether it’s a retrofit in a heritage building or a high-spec commercial development.

Get Technical Input or Request a Quotation

If you’re planning a commercial project involving below-ground structures, damp control or waterproofing, we’d be happy to assist.

Call 01252 333 310 or enquire online to speak to our technical team about surveys, design input or tender pricing.