Dulux Trade
Latest Case studies
Dulux Trade makeover for modernist masterpiece
When specialist building, maintenance and decorating contractor, EG and LE Hubbard, was tasked with the refurbishment of a unique 1930's sea-front building in Southend, Essex, it turned to the industry experts at Dulux Trade for a solution that would protect the exterior of Argyll House in even the harshest weather and most demanding circumstances. Business Development Manager, Robin Fenner recommended its best in class product, Weathershield Maximum Exposure, to keep Argyll House as beautifully imposing as the day it opened in 1937.
Argyll House came into being when, in the inter-war years, architectural firm Howis and Belcham was given a design brief to sweep away a large Victorian house situated above the South Essex Coast and replace it with a modernist multi-storied apartment block. Howis and Belcham submitted ground-breaking plans for 39 residential units and one caretaker flat, as well as a sun terrace on the penthouse floor.
When ready for occupancy in 1937, the smooth exterior, sweeping curved corners, light-filled and spacious rooms, and the wonderful views from the cantilevered balconies of Argyll House, rapidly established the building as the most desirable apartment block in the county. Today, its broad lawns still stretch down from the cliff-face to meet the sea, making it utterly unique in design and situation.
The coastal, cliff-top location of Argyll House, however, means that it can be subject to attack from salt water and the elements. Argyll House was therefore painted in Dulux Trade Weathershield Maximum Exposure in Pure Brilliant White, a product that is both sea salt and chemical spray resistant. Its inimitable properties provide a tough and flexible paint film that is up to five times more flexible than conventional masonry paints, covering hairline cracks and preventing subsequent cracking and flaking.
Dulux Trade Weathershield Maximum Exposure also contains an added fungicide to inhibit mould growth on the paint film, perfect for combating the damp conditions to which Argyll House is vulnerable. It can be applied to surfaces previously painted with masonry paint, and is particularly suited for use in changeable weather conditions because it is shower resistant just 15 minutes after application.
Our Business Development Manager for the Eastern Region, Robin Fenner, worked closely with Hubbard Ltd to ensure that this national treasure was given the best possible treatment. In recommending Weathershield Maximum Exposure for the job, Robin has provided an exterior decorating solution that will continue to work extremely hard for Argyll House for many years to come, meeting the contractors objectives of inhibiting mould growth and providing flexible protection from sea spray and the elements.
As far as we know, there are no other surviving residential buildings from the inter-war years that are built in the modernist vernacular with smooth rendering, that are set in landscaped grounds and boast sea views, so it was fantastic to have been involved in such a unique project.
