Paradox Museum

We were appointed by Crama to design, supply, and install the complete life safety systems for the Paradox Museum London, located on Brompton Road, Knightsbridge. This high-profile, visitor-focused attraction presented a technically demanding environment with complex operational and fire safety requirements.

Overview

Our involvement commenced at an early stage of the project, with an initial site visit during full strip-out. We worked closely with the construction team to review drawings, carry out detailed surveys, and agree the fire alarm strategy prior to installation. From concept through to completion, the project required a flexible, collaborative approach and a high level of technical coordination across multiple disciplines.

Fire Alarm System

We supplied and installed an Advanced Electronics MXPro5 fire alarm control panel utilising Apollo Fire Detectors protocol, providing a robust and scalable solution suitable for a complex, multi-level public building.

The system was designed to achieve Category L1 life protection, delivering comprehensive coverage throughout all areas of the museum, including voids and concealed spaces. Sounder beacons were installed throughout the building to ensure clear audible and visual warning in line with the needs of a high-footfall public environment.

Approximately 4,000 metres of FP fire-resistant cabling were installed as part of the fire alarm infrastructure.

System Integration & Coordination

A key complexity of this project was the extensive level of system interfacing required. We liaised closely with multiple contractors and specialists to successfully integrate the fire alarm system with a wide range of building services, including:

  • Passenger lifts and elevator control systems
  • HVAC and airflow management systems
  • Gas shut-off systems
  • Door magnets and automatic door release mechanisms
  • Sprinkler systems, including flow and tamper switches
  • Electrical shutdown interfaces
  • Fire and smoke dampers
  • IHUs and associated plant systems

This coordination ensured the correct cause-and-effect responses across all life safety and building systems, delivering a fully integrated solution aligned with the agreed fire strategy.

Refuge & Emergency Voice Communication Systems

In addition to the fire alarm installation, we designed, supplied, and installed a comprehensive emergency voice communication and refuge system using the Eurofyre Crisis Emergency Voice Communication System.

The system supports inclusive evacuation procedures and emergency response coordination and consisted of:

  • Emergency Communication Link Control Units
  • Fire Telephones (Type A) for fire service use
  • Disabled Refuge Systems (Type B) at designated refuge points
  • Expander Panels to support system scalability
  • Crisis Assist WC kits installed within disabled toilets

The system was carefully configured to ensure reliability, clarity, and ease of use for occupants, staff, and emergency responders.

Fire Extinguishers

As part of the overall life safety package, we also supplied and installed the fire extinguisher provisionthroughout the Paradox Museum. The extinguishers were selected, positioned, and commissioned in accordance with the fire risk assessment and relevant standards, ensuring appropriate coverage across public areas, back-of-house spaces, and plant areas.

This formed part of a coordinated approach to fire safety, providing the client with a complete and compliant solution delivered under a single scope.

Delivery & Outcome

Throughout the project, the client introduced design changes and evolving operational requirements as the museum concept developed. We responded proactively, adapting installation methods, programming, and coordination to meet all revised demands while maintaining compliance, quality, and programme certainty.

The project was successfully completed in July 2024, supporting the museum’s planned opening and delivering a fully compliant, integrated, and future-ready life safety solution for this landmark London attraction.

About The Project

Design, supply, and installation of complete life safety systems

Crama

July 2024

Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London