Lambeth Palace, the historic London residence of the Archbishops of Canterbury, has undergone a major £40 million refurbishment, bringing 800 years of ecclesiastical history into the modern, low-carbon age.
The extensive programme of works, delivered by contractor Walter Lilly, included a full upgrade of the building’s heating and energy systems, featuring double glazing, air source heat pumps, and rooftop solar panels. The palace, which dates back to the 12th century, is now set to transition away from fossil fuels entirely, thanks to the installation of a new energy centre that enables operation solely via on-site renewable energy.
Key sustainability upgrades include the installation of three air source heat pumps, the replacement of 140 radiators, and the double glazing of 160 historic windows. In addition, more than 39 tonnes of timber were recycled throughout the project.
One of the most notable elements of the refurbishment was the restoration of the 17th-century Great Hall, whose timber roof—damaged during the Second World War—has now been fully repaired. In collaboration with Historic England, the project called upon expert timber specialists, stonemasons and conservation professionals. The team replaced 1,450 sqm of floorboards, repaired and cleaned 800 sqm of stonework, and completed 13,500 sqm of plastering and painting.
Chris Butler, Managing Director at Walter Lilly, said:
“The successful completion of the re-servicing works at Lambeth Palace represents a major milestone in the conservation and modernisation of one of the UK’s most treasured historic buildings.
Despite the complexities of working in a live, occupied environment and addressing archaeological discoveries during underground works, we’re immensely proud to have delivered a sustainable solution that supports the Church of England’s net-zero ambitions. This project is a clear demonstration of how heritage sites can be sensitively adapted to meet future needs.”
The architectural design was led by Wright & Wright, with engineering provided by Arup. The entire £40 million cost was funded by the Church Commissioners.
Whoever the next Archbishop of Canterbury may be, one thing is certain: their heating bills will be significantly lower.
