Project Overview
Alongside architects RH Partnership, SDC created a welcoming new entrance and modernised interior for the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge.
Purpose built in 1910, the museum houses one of the most significant and exciting anthropological collections in the UK.
Often overlooked due to its unassuming appearance and blacked-out windows, the new entrance, reception and gift shop, carefully integrated into the Grade II listed façade, transformed public awareness.
Internally, the opening up of boarded windows and removing paint from original stone features, lightened and brightened the Museum’s previously gloomy interior.
Shortlisted for Museum of the Year 2013, with the chair of judges commenting “a very beautiful architectural transformation – and amazing new entrance”.
SDC procured and managed the installation and commissioning of the building services systems.
The oldest object was a 1.8-million-year-old stone tool from Olduvai Gorge, whist the newest are made by contemporary artists. Given the nature and age of the artefacts stored in the museum it was critical that SDC facilitated their storage in a closely controlled and monitored environment.
The heating and ventilation were discreetly re-engineered on ‘conservation heating’ principles, improving levels of staff and visitor comfort and contributing to the better preservation of the valuable collection.
Security and safety were also enhanced and, in parallel with the internal work, the roof was retiled, lantern re-glazed, and leadwork repaired.
Core Team
Gary Wykes
Board Director
Gary started his construction career at 16 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor, combining hands-on experience with studies at Kettering and Northampton Colleges, where he earned ONC and HNC qualifications. He later obtained a part-time degree from Nottingham Trent University, completing it in five years thanks to his prior qualifications.
In the mid-1980s, Gary worked with a second company, managing projects in Hatfield and Aylesbury, before seeking a role closer to home. Joining SDC in the late 1980s, he progressed from Quantity Surveyor to Senior Quantity Surveyor and then Manager of the Special Projects Division. During the early 1990s recession, Gary played a key role in restructuring the division, which focused on smaller-scale projects. This effort helped position SDC for long-term success in a challenging economic climate.
Appointed to SDC’s Board of Directors in 2003, Gary oversees the Special Projects Division, manages key projects, and contributes to strategic and financial planning. Between 2004 and 2007, he played a role in transitioning SDC to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), ensuring stability and employee-centred governance. His leadership alongside the other Board Directors has been pivotal in navigating challenges and ensuring stability.
Gary has fostered enduring relationships with major clients like Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Cambridge, emphasising quality and client satisfaction. Over decades, he has supported SDC’s evolution from a more informal operation to a professional, structured organisation. As the company continues to grow and adapt, he remains committed to supporting its ongoing success and ensuring it is well-positioned to meet future challenges.
Graham Staughton
Special Projects Manager
Graham is one of SDC’s longest-serving employees, having joined the company in 1981. With over 40 years of experience, his career has evolved significantly, and he now leads the day-to-day operations of the Special Projects division. Since his appointment as Department Manager, his leadership and experience have been key drivers in the continued success and growth of the Special Projects Division
David Fairley
Contracts Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
