Challenge
Poplar Baths presented a unique M&E engineering challenge: the need to restore and modernise the mechanical and electrical systems of a listed heritage building while maintaining historical integrity. Originally opened in 1933 and closed in 1988, the building had suffered from decades of neglect and structural deterioration. The refurbishment required installing modern systems—HVAC, lighting, power, and water—into a structure never intended for them, while preserving original architectural features. Spatial constraints, aged structural elements, and the requirement to conform to conservation guidelines made coordination particularly complex. Existing documentation was incomplete, requiring careful on-site validation and bespoke modelling in AutoCAD and BIM environments.
Overview
PDA was brought in to provide a full M&E design and integration package that would support the building’s transformation into a vibrant community leisure facility. The scope included designing systems to serve a 25-metre swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a spa area, a four-court sports hall, and ancillary facilities such as changing rooms and café spaces. The project required balancing high-performance system delivery with sensitivity to heritage aesthetics. As part of the broader regeneration initiative in Tower Hamlets, this facility was designed to serve both operational efficiency and community value.
Solution
PDA developed a carefully phased implementation strategy, using custom mechanical plant layouts and concealed ducting to preserve original interior features. A bespoke ventilation strategy was developed to manage high humidity from the pool and spa areas while maintaining energy performance. Heat recovery systems and demand-controlled ventilation were installed to reduce operational costs. Lighting systems were upgraded with discreet LED fixtures that respected original fittings but met modern lux levels. All systems were linked into a centralised BMS for long-term optimisation.
Benefits
The revitalised Poplar Baths achieved modern operational standards without compromising its historic character. With features such as energy-efficient air handling units (AHUs), low-energy lighting, and water-saving plumbing fixtures, the building meets current sustainability expectations while reducing long-term operational costs. For similar heritage leisure or community facilities, we recommend early M&E involvement to ensure plantroom space, routing, and controls are planned around heritage priorities. These techniques can also be applied to historic hotels, libraries, and theatres.
Outcome
PDA’s successful delivery helped the project win multiple awards, including the Civic Trust Award and the Historic England Angel Award. The client praised our technical rigour and sensitivity to heritage constraints, recognising PDA as a safe pair of hands for complex retrofit projects.
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