Transforming Construction into Art: Creative Scaffold Wraps at Somerset House by Project Print Management

In the heart of London lies one of the city’s most iconic historical buildings—Somerset House. With its rich neoclassical architecture and Grade I listing, it serves as a cultural centre, office hub, dining venue, public space, and heritage landmark. So when necessary construction work had to be carried out on its roof, the challenge was clear: how do you conduct essential maintenance without disrupting the visual experience of visitors?

The answer came in the form of a Creative Scaffold Wrap—a bespoke printed facade designed, produced, and managed by Project Print Management (PPM). This innovative project not only achieved its primary goal of concealing unattractive scaffolding but did so in a way that enhanced, rather than detracted from, the site’s visual appeal.

This case study explores the creative and logistical journey behind the Somerset House scaffold wraps and demonstrates why PPM continues to lead the field in printed building wraps, trompe l’oeil graphics, and creative site screening.

The Brief: Protect the Visitor Experience with Creative scaffold wrap

In June 2015, Somerset House Trust approached PPM with a request: devise a solution to hide scaffolding that would be erected on the south elevation roof of the building during refurbishment works. The project was part of essential restoration on a structure that welcomes millions of visitors each year and hosts exhibitions, events, and activities.

The Trust’s goal was to avoid disrupting the aesthetic of the site and to ensure that no construction work was visible to the public. Given the building’s prestige and historical importance, typical scaffolding would have created a jarring visual interruption. The client made it clear that maintaining the dignity of the space was non-negotiable.

With a deep understanding of heritage environments, PPM proposed a custom-designed trompe l’oeil wrap to completely disguise the scaffolding. The wrap would blend seamlessly into the existing architecture, preserving the view and enhancing the space rather than detracting from it.

Building wraps — Developing the Solution: Combining Art and Engineering

To achieve this, PPM worked closely with the appointed **scaffolding contractor**. The first stage involved designing a **scaffold sub-frame** that could support a **digitally printed mesh banner** large enough to cover the entire structure. The sub-frame needed to be robust, yet discreet, and designed to the precise dimensions required for the trompe l’oeil illusion to work.

PPM’s team conducted a **pre-installation photography session** to capture the architecture of the area in detail. These photographs were used to create hyper-realistic digital artwork, mirroring the building’s stonework, windows, and shadows. The aim was to trick the eye into believing that the building continued uninterrupted—an effect that relies on millimetre-accurate scaling and alignment.

Once the artwork was finalised, it was passed through to print production.

Print Production: Turning Vision into Reality

The chosen material for the creative scaffold wrap was a **fire-retardant mesh PVC**, designed for both visual clarity and practical durability. Mesh is particularly well-suited to scaffold wraps, as it allows airflow—critical for maintaining wind resistance—while still offering a full-colour printed surface.

The printing was carried out using **cutting-edge superwide digital printers**, capable of reproducing every detail of the stone texture, window frames, and architectural lines with exceptional clarity. The banners were then finished with reinforced hems and industrial-grade eyelets, ready to be tensioned across the scaffold sub-frame.

Installation and Structural Considerations

Installation of such a wrap is not simply a matter of hanging a banner. For a trompe l’oeil to work, the image must align perfectly with the real building behind it. This required the scaffold contractor to erect a **precisely measured sub-frame** onto which the wrap could be fixed.

In cases where a scaffold contractor is already on-site, PPM recommends that the sub-frame be installed by them, as they’ve already undertaken **load calculations** and have access to materials and labour. This often proves more **cost-effective** than bringing in separate crews. However, if needed, PPM can provide **site supervisors** to train scaffolders or even take over full sub-frame installation.

In some cases, clients may choose to **purchase** the sub-frame materials, rather than hire them, to save on long-term costs—particularly if the wrap is to remain in place for many months or more.

Expanding the Project: More Wraps, More Impact Creative scaffold wrap

The success of the initial south elevation wrap led Somerset House to expand the project significantly. Pleased with the results, the client requested further wraps to cover:

**A large hoist and scaffolding in the courtyard**, an area open to the public where events and daily activities take place.

**Scaffolding supporting a temporary roof**, which would otherwise have been visually disruptive.

**The Strand elevation**, used to display high-impact visual advertising for exhibitions and events.

The **courtyard trompe l’oeil wrap** was a particular triumph. Visitors could continue to enjoy the architectural beauty of the site, unaware that extensive works were ongoing behind the scenes. The blend of historical preservation and contemporary visual technique proved a hit with both staff and the public.

For the Strand elevation, the wrap served a **dual purpose**. Not only did it hide ongoing works, but it also acted as a **dynamic advertising medium**, showcasing the latest exhibitions. The graphic elements of this section were changed approximately every **five months**, providing fresh, engaging content.

Managing a Turn-Key Solution Creative scaffold wrap

Four years after the original wrap, Somerset House called upon PPM once again—this time for a **comprehensive, turn-key solution**. The construction work had commenced in full, and the Trust wanted a single provider to oversee everything from design and print to installation and project management.

This required not just creativity and print expertise, but also the coordination of services outside PPM’s core offering. These included:

**Wind load calculations**

**Structural engineering sign-off**

**Scaffold design approval**

**Site health and safety compliance**

While PPM specialises in design, print, and project management, they frequently act as the **central hub** for complex installations. In this role, PPM brings together accredited partners—scaffold designers, engineers, and safety consultants—ensuring that the wrap meets all necessary technical and legal standards.

Clients are made aware that these services are **subcontracted**, and thus carry **additional costs**. However, the result is a single, integrated solution with clear communication, minimal disruption, and maximum impact.

Why Scaffold Wraps Matter

Scaffold wraps are no longer just a functional necessity; they are a **visual asset**. Especially in heritage sites, tourist destinations, or high-traffic commercial zones, the appearance of a building under construction has a real effect on public perception.

A trompe l’oeil wrap allows building owners and contractors to:

Maintain the building’s outward appearance

Protect their brand reputation

Enhance the visitor experience

Communicate key messaging or advertising

Meet council or stakeholder requirements for visual impact mitigation

At Somerset House, the wraps did all this and more. What could have been a prolonged eyesore became a **talking point**, a **canvas for creativity**, and a **testament to modern building conservation**.

Preserving Aesthetics During Progress

The Somerset House project exemplifies the powerful role that **Project Print Management** plays in bridging the gap between construction and conservation. Their **creative scaffold wraps** transform necessary disruption into an opportunity—an opportunity to delight, inform, and maintain visual harmony even in the most challenging environments.

PPM’s approach combines:

**Expert design consultation**

**Advanced print technology**

**Collaboration with structural and scaffold professionals**

**Turn-key project management**

As proven at Somerset House, a scaffold wrap is not just a cover-up—it’s an art form. One that respects the past, supports the present, and adds value to the future.

Developing the Solution: Combining Art and Engineering

To achieve this, PPM worked closely with the appointed **scaffolding contractor**. The first stage involved designing a **scaffold sub-frame** that could support a **digitally printed mesh banner** large enough to cover the entire structure. The sub-frame needed to be robust, yet discreet, and designed to the precise dimensions required for the trompe l’oeil illusion to work.

PPM’s team conducted a **pre-installation photography session** to capture the architecture of the area in detail. These photographs were used to create hyper-realistic digital artwork, mirroring the building’s stonework, windows, and shadows. The aim was to trick the eye into believing that the building continued uninterrupted—an effect that relies on millimetre-accurate scaling and alignment.

Once the artwork was finalised, it was passed through to print production.

Print Production: Turning Vision into Reality

The chosen material for the creative scaffold wrap was a **fire-retardant mesh PVC**, designed for both visual clarity and practical durability. Mesh is particularly well-suited to scaffold wraps, as it allows airflow—critical for maintaining wind resistance—while still offering a full-colour printed surface.

The printing was carried out using **cutting-edge superwide digital printers**, capable of reproducing every detail of the stone texture, window frames, and architectural lines with exceptional clarity. The banners were then finished with reinforced hems and industrial-grade eyelets, ready to be tensioned across the scaffold sub-frame.

Installation and Structural Considerations

Installation of such a wrap is not simply a matter of hanging a banner. For a trompe l’oeil to work, the image must align perfectly with the real building behind it. This required the scaffold contractor to erect a **precisely measured sub-frame** onto which the wrap could be fixed.

In cases where a scaffold contractor is already on-site, PPM recommends that the sub-frame be installed by them, as they’ve already undertaken **load calculations** and have access to materials and labour. This often proves more **cost-effective** than bringing in separate crews. However, if needed, PPM can provide **site supervisors** to train scaffolders or even take over full sub-frame installation.

In some cases, clients may choose to **purchase** the sub-frame materials, rather than hire them, to save on long-term costs—particularly if the wrap is to remain in place for many months or more.

Expanding the Project: More Wraps, More Impact Creative scaffold wrap

The success of the initial south elevation wrap led Somerset House to expand the project significantly. Pleased with the results, the client requested further wraps to cover:

**A large hoist and scaffolding in the courtyard**, an area open to the public where events and daily activities take place.

**Scaffolding supporting a temporary roof**, which would otherwise have been visually disruptive.

**The Strand elevation**, used to display high-impact visual advertising for exhibitions and events.

The **courtyard trompe l’oeil wrap** was a particular triumph. Visitors could continue to enjoy the architectural beauty of the site, unaware that extensive works were ongoing behind the scenes. The blend of historical preservation and contemporary visual technique proved a hit with both staff and the public.

For the Strand elevation, the wrap served a **dual purpose**. Not only did it hide ongoing works, but it also acted as a **dynamic advertising medium**, showcasing the latest exhibitions. The graphic elements of this section were changed approximately every **five months**, providing fresh, engaging content.

Managing a Turn-Key Solution Creative scaffold wrap

Four years after the original wrap, Somerset House called upon PPM once again—this time for a **comprehensive, turn-key solution**. The construction work had commenced in full, and the Trust wanted a single provider to oversee everything from design and print to installation and project management.

This required not just creativity and print expertise, but also the coordination of services outside PPM’s core offering. These included:

**Wind load calculations**

**Structural engineering sign-off**

**Scaffold design approval**

**Site health and safety compliance**

While PPM specialises in design, print, and project management, they frequently act as the **central hub** for complex installations. In this role, PPM brings together accredited partners—scaffold designers, engineers, and safety consultants—ensuring that the wrap meets all necessary technical and legal standards.

Clients are made aware that these services are **subcontracted**, and thus carry **additional costs**. However, the result is a single, integrated solution with clear communication, minimal disruption, and maximum impact.

Why Scaffold Wraps Matter

Scaffold wraps are no longer just a functional necessity; they are a **visual asset**. Especially in heritage sites, tourist destinations, or high-traffic commercial zones, the appearance of a building under construction has a real effect on public perception.

A trompe l’oeil wrap allows building owners and contractors to:

Maintain the building’s outward appearance

Protect their brand reputation

Enhance the visitor experience

Communicate key messaging or advertising

Meet council or stakeholder requirements for visual impact mitigation

At Somerset House, the wraps did all this and more. What could have been a prolonged eyesore became a **talking point**, a **canvas for creativity**, and a **testament to modern building conservation**.

Preserving Aesthetics During Progress

The Somerset House project exemplifies the powerful role that **Project Print Management** plays in bridging the gap between construction and conservation. Their **creative scaffold wraps** transform necessary disruption into an opportunity—an opportunity to delight, inform, and maintain visual harmony even in the most challenging environments.

PPM’s approach combines:

**Expert design consultation**

**Advanced print technology**

**Collaboration with structural and scaffold professionals**

**Turn-key project management**

As proven at Somerset House, a scaffold wrap is not just a cover-up—it’s an art form. One that respects the past, supports the present, and adds value to the future.

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Transforming Construction into Art: Creative Scaffold Wraps at Somerset House by Project Print Management

The Brief: Protect the Visitor Experience with Creative scaffold wrap

Developing the Solution: Combining Art and Engineering

Print Production: Turning Vision into Reality

Installation and Structural Considerations

Expanding the Project: More Wraps, More Impact Creative scaffold wrap

Managing a Turn-Key Solution Creative scaffold wrap

Why Scaffold Wraps Matter

Preserving Aesthetics During Progress