The Historic Dockyard Chatham commissioned a new visitor centre as part of its Command of the Oceans project and Gratte Brothers Catering Equipment was awarded the Turnkey delivery of the Catering Space. 2018 marks Chatham’s 400th Anniversary and fittingly, Command of the Oceans tells the story of British Innovation and Craftsmanship throughout the age of sail.
Gratte Brothers was able to operate independently, within a skirting wall of the overall works to the site. Our Installations included, Ventilation Ducting, Hot Water Systems, Public Health, Kitchen Prep area, Dishwashing, Refrigeration and the bespoke Stainless Steel Cooking Suite.
The site itself is constructed of original ship timbers. This meant that the Catering Hall was a listed building which prevented any use of Hot Works. Whilst left to its own devices, Gratte Brothers had to maintain close links to the Main Contractor engaged with the Museum Works. Not only were the project’s completion dates to be synchronised; the ribbon being cut by no less than 3 Admirals, it also provided the only access to site.
Without free access to the site, Gratte Brothers invested additional time with the consultants early in the design phase to ensure challenges were easily resolved. This investment in relationships was followed right to the completion of the project, with last minute changes to the onsite Catering Team, in depth training was provided to ensure the project delivered to specification.
The delivery of this catering project was not only achieved to budget and to programme, but the project as a whole achieved several RIBA awards, including shortlisting for the Stirling Prize 2017.
