Brilliant spaces for youthful minds

The aim of the refurbishment was to transform the existing 1960s base build into an inspirational vocational learning space, creating an improved student college experience for the arrival of the new T-levels at Stratford.

Project partners

  • Novus project management
  • Associated Architects LLP
  • Robinson Low Francis Ltd
  • Couch Perry & Wilkes LLP
  • Assent Building Control
  • Rodgers Leask Limted

Project description

When first impressions are everything

The angular entrance is finished with ceramic cladding and sets the tone for the innovation which students will experience at College. This helps create a focal point and an inspiring entrance to the campus; vastly improving its prominence and local visibility. The modern aesthetic is complemented by a wraparound timber finish, bringing a sense of nature into the modern entranceway.

Being a 1960's development, asbestos needed to be carefully removed during the strip out process. As the building was returned to its shell and core, we began a new M&E services installation. The M&E works include new distribution boards, lighting containment, radiators, piping, fire upgrades and data installation.

The new suspended ceiling features acoustic ceiling rafts and integrated strip lighting, creating a clean and modern look. The breakout space and tea points provide areas for downtime, reinforcing the College’s focus on staff and student wellbeing. The stairwells in the building were refurbished to bring them up to the same standard as other facilities in the fit out.

LED lighting was installed throughout, which not only helps emphasise the bright and modern look but will also help the campus reduce their ongoing emissions and running costs.

Working together

A strong sense of collaboration was paramount throughout the project. We ensured that stakeholders were onboard and updated throughout the duration of the project and budget was continually reviewed and adjustments made to keep both to the programme and agreed overall budget.

Delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic, a collaborative way of working was essential, as we adapted to government guidelines in order to meet the 24-week delivery period. The refurbishment works were carried out in a live campus environment, meaning that disruption to staff and students needed to be kept to a minimum.

Phase Two

The second phase of this refurbishment was to deliver new classrooms in Stratford College's Block B. Situated across two floors, the classrooms are adaptable with adjustable walls which allow them to expand to accommodate larger cohorts when needed.

We installed new lighting, suspended ceilings and powered yet movable desks, ensuring that the space could be used for the range of subjects taught at Stratford.

Read more