The University of Lancaster wished to upgrade a block of student accommodation to a very high specification in preparation for the University hosting the AUDE conference (Association of University Director of Estates).
Works to the accommodation included the strip out and replacement of all the carpets in the bedrooms and the vinyl floors in the bathrooms.
All existing windows cills were removed and replaced with UPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) cills for their durability, longevity low maintenance and clean look. All the ceiling suspended tiles in the bedrooms, corridors and stairwells were refitted along with any damaged plaster.
The looked at the rooms was very important to the university, they needed to look and feel smart for the conference but also be practical spaces for the eventual ender users, the students. Working with the client we picked out fresh clean colours that worked with the space and each other.
The John Creed buildings are situated on the campus, surrounded by the Lancaster University academic, residential and commercial buildings. These remained live and occupied during the works.
During the delivery of the works our team had the responsibility to update the client when our works were likely to affect other building users who were currently occupying the space, this included for periods of noisy working such as strip out phases. During these times there would be a scheduled shut down of services, dedicated access and egress routes, including public lifts and the precise arrangement of deliveries of material, plant and tools.
The university also noted the refurbishment and date of commencement on their website alongside a helpdesk email and number that could be contacted to gain further information about the project.
All risks were highlighted within a risk register and discussed with the university in advance of the works commencing so the necessary building users could be notified in advance. When needed the team agreed and works were recommenced outside of normal working hours to minimise any disruption.