Burlington House is a prominent four-storey building located on Burlington Street, right in the heart of Chesterfield’s bustling city centre. Originally constructed in the 1960s, the building has long been a familiar feature of the town’s architectural landscape. However, like many mid-century commercial properties, it had begun to show signs of age and underutilisation, particularly on its upper floors. Recognising its potential, ALB Group acquired the property in 2020 with a vision to breathe new life into the building and contribute to the wider regeneration of Chesterfield.

The redevelopment project focused on transforming Burlington House into a vibrant mixed-use space. While the ground floor continues to accommodate established retail tenants, the upper floors, which were previously underused, have been converted into modern affordable residential apartments. This strategic approach not only maximises the building’s utility but also aligns with broader urban development goals aimed at increasing town centre living and reducing reliance on commuting from outlying areas.

Chesterfield itself is undergoing a period of significant regeneration, with local authorities and private developers working together to enhance the town’s appeal. Its strategic location near the Peak District National Park, proximity to the M1 motorway, and excellent transport links to major cities such as Sheffield, Nottingham, and Derby make it an attractive base for both residents and commuters. Burlington House’s transformation is a key part of this wider effort to revitalise the town centre and attract new investment.

To deliver the façade upgrade, ALB Group appointed HBW Ltd as the main contractor. HBW brought extensive experience in cladding and external envelope solutions, ensuring the project met both aesthetic and safety standards. A total of 527 square metres of Valcan’s Aluminium VitraDual cladding panels were specified and installed across the building’s exterior. The panels were finished in a sleek concrete grey tone, chosen to complement the surrounding environment while giving the building a fresh, contemporary look.

The installation utilised Valcan’s VitraFix subframe system, which provides a secure and efficient method for mounting the cladding. Colour-matched rivets were used throughout to maintain a seamless appearance and enhance the overall visual impact. The result is a façade that is not only modern and stylish but also built to last, withstanding the elements and maintaining its integrity over time.

VitraDual is a high-performance aluminium cladding solution that stands out for its safety credentials. Classified as A1 in accordance with BS EN 13501-1, it is fully non-combustible, making it one of the safest choices for residential and safety-critical buildings.

Unlike traditional composite panels, which often contain combustible cores such as polyethylene or mineral fillers, VitraDual is made entirely from 100% solid aluminium. This eliminates fire risk associated with core materials and ensures compliance with the latest building safety regulations.

In addition to its safety features, VitraDual offers excellent durability and low maintenance requirements. It is resistant to corrosion, UV degradation, and weathering, making it ideal for long-term use in urban environments. Its visual similarity to composite panels allows architects and developers to achieve a high-end aesthetic without compromising on safety or performance.

The refurbishment of Burlington House has been met with a positive response from both the local community and stakeholders involved in Chesterfield’s regeneration. The building’s updated exterior has significantly improved the visual appeal of Burlington Street and the surrounding high street area. It now serves as a striking example of how thoughtful design and investment can rejuvenate older buildings and contribute to a more vibrant town centre.

Beyond its physical transformation, Burlington House represents a shift in how urban spaces are being reimagined. By integrating residential units into a traditionally commercial building, the project supports a more sustainable and dynamic town centre. Residents benefit from immediate access to shops, services, and public transport, while retailers enjoy increased footfall and a more active local economy.

The success of this redevelopment highlights the importance of collaboration between developers, contractors, and product suppliers. ALB Group’s vision, HBW Ltd’s expertise, and Valcan’s innovative cladding solutions came together to deliver a project that not only meets modern safety standards but also enhances the character and functionality of Chesterfield’s city centre.

As towns across the UK continue to evolve in response to changing lifestyles and economic pressures, projects like Burlington House offer a blueprint for future regeneration efforts. They demonstrate how existing buildings can be adapted to meet contemporary needs, contributing to more resilient, attractive, and liveable urban environments.

In summary, Burlington House is more than just a building—it’s a symbol of Chesterfield’s ongoing transformation. Through strategic investment, modern design, and a commitment to safety and quality, it has been successfully reimagined as a key asset in the town’s future.