Installing modern electrical systems in a Grade I listed building requires far more than technical expertise.

Every decision must balance safety, compliance and performance while preserving the character and fabric of one of Britain’s most treasured historic buildings.

That was the challenge facing MEL when we were appointed to install a new emergency lighting system at Cliveden House, the iconic Berkshire country house now operated by Iconic Luxury Hotels.

Over six months, our team carefully installed around 200 emergency light fittings, delivering a fully compliant solution while respecting the heritage of this remarkable property.

Built in 1666, Cliveden House has welcomed royalty, politicians and world-famous guests throughout its history.

Today, as a luxury hotel set within National Trust grounds, it continues to welcome visitors from across the world while preserving the unique architectural character that makes it one of Britain’s most recognisable historic estates.

Projects within buildings like these require specialist planning and exceptional attention to detail.

Emergency lighting is a legal requirement in commercial buildings, but installing it within a listed property presents additional considerations.

The client wanted a modern, fully compliant system without compromising the building’s historic appearance or disrupting guests during the works.

To demonstrate our experience, we first introduced the client to our previously completed lighting project at Eton College Chapel, showcasing the care and quality of our heritage electrical work.

Working closely with Iconic Luxury Hotels and Clevertronics, MEL completed the installation of the Zoneworks XT HIVE emergency lighting system.

The project included:

• Installation of approximately 200 emergency light fittings
• Wireless emergency lighting technology
• Careful positioning to protect historic interiors
• RAL colour matching of every fitting to blend with existing décor
• Minimal disruption throughout the hotel

Every fitting was selected and installed with preservation in mind, ensuring the modern safety system complemented the building rather than detracted from it.

The Clevertronics HIVE system offered several important advantages for a heritage environment.

Because the system is fully wireless, there was no need to install additional cabling through sensitive building fabric.

The installation also benefits from:

• Automated emergency lighting testing
• Real-time system monitoring
• Reduced ongoing maintenance
• Long-life battery technology
• Simplified compliance reporting

These features help building managers maintain compliance while reducing the long-term maintenance burden.

The completed installation exceeded the client’s expectations.

Not only was the project delivered with minimal disruption, but the care shown throughout the installation demonstrated MEL’s experience working within sensitive heritage environments.

Following completion, Iconic Luxury Hotels invited MEL to discuss further projects across its hotel portfolio – a reflection of the trust built throughout the project.

While Cliveden House presented unique challenges, emergency lighting is essential for virtually every commercial building.

Whether managing a hotel, office, school, university, industrial facility or listed property, emergency lighting plays a vital role in protecting occupants during a power failure.

Emergency lighting helps:

• Illuminate escape routes
• Identify fire exits
• Highlight fire-fighting equipment
• Support safe evacuation
• Reduce risk during emergencies

In the UK, emergency lighting must comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the relevant requirements of BS 5266.

Installing emergency lighting is only the beginning.

Regular testing ensures systems continue to operate when they’re needed most.

Typical maintenance includes:

• Monthly – Functional testing
• Annually – Full-duration discharge testing
• Recording all inspections within the building’s fire safety logbook

Having a responsible person oversee testing and compliance helps ensure buildings remain safe and meet legal obligations.

Whether you’re refurbishing a listed building, upgrading commercial premises or improving fire safety compliance across your estate, selecting the right emergency lighting solution requires careful planning and specialist expertise.

At mel, we design, install and maintain emergency lighting systems across commercial, industrial and heritage environments, delivering compliant solutions that protect both people and buildings.

If you’re planning an emergency lighting upgrade or would like advice on compliance, we’d be happy to help.

Contact the mel team to discuss your project.