Switched On Group is the industry best for service and delivery in the building and maintenance sector.
Restoring the Historic Lyttelton Lighthouse
Our delivery partner Switched On Building Solutions recently undertook a challenging commercial painting project to restore the historic Lyttelton Lighthouse, significantly damaged during the 2010 Christchurch earthquake. The earthquake caused the lighthouse to lean precariously, with its foundations sinking almost two metres, leaving it tilted at a 15-degree angle—four times that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. After eight months in this state, the lighthouse was rescued in May 2011 and transported by barge across the harbour to safe land, where it was carefully stored until its return to its rightful home in late 2021.
Key work undertaken:
- Full-scale strip of existing lead-based paint
- Scaffold wrapping to contain flakes and residue
- Strict adherence to health and safety protocols
- Application of a protective paint system as specified by Dulux
- Comprehensive exterior and interior painting
Given the lighthouse's historical significance, the team approached the restoration with meticulous care and attention to detail. The project began with a full-scale strip of the existing lead-based paint, which required us to wrap the scaffold to contain any flakes or residue and prevent environmental impact, especially given the proximity to the water.
Following the lead paint removal, which adhered strictly to our health and safety protocols, we applied a protective paint system as specified by Dulux. This comprehensive process involved both exterior and interior painting, ensuring the lighthouse was restored to its former glory.
The restoration of the Lyttelton Lighthouse not only preserved an important historical structure but also demonstrated our commitment to high standards of workmanship and environmental responsibility.
This project highlights our dedication to delivering high-quality restoration solutions for historically significant structures. From lead paint removal to applying protective coatings, our goal is to ensure that such landmarks are preserved for future generations to appreciate.
If you require expert maintenance services for commercial, retail, or services industry projects, including heritage and hazardous works, Switched On Facilities is here to help. Our experienced team is equipped to handle a wide range of projects with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today to discuss your needs and discover how we can support your next project.