Case studies

What Did The Job Involve?

This project involved the complete refurbishment of the University’s main library together with fire compartment improvement works on the upper levels of the building.

Located on the ground floor podium level, the library underwent a significant upgrade which included the provision of a new entrance and draft lobb, large reception desks, new entrance barriers and offices.

The existing heating system was replaced with a modern efficient system and the lighting was upgraded significantly improving luminance levels throughout.

New fire rated glass partitions were erected on the second, third, fourth and fifth floors as part of the building’s improved fire strategy. New flooring and sympathetic redecoration of the library provided the finishing touches giving the University a new modern working environment.

What Were The Challenges?

The building was located within the middle of the campus which provided a challenge to the arrangement of deliveries. This required significant forward planning.

Services to the building had to be maintained throughout the works to avoid disruption to other areas of the building.

The existing full storey-height windows had to be removed and replaced without compromising security or causing extensive damage. The windows and finishes were designed to co-ordinate with the existing fair-faced concrete structure.

Beardwell’s Added Value

Daily liaison and planning with university staff ensured minimal disruption to the building users. Local labour and sub-contractors were used throughout the project.

What Did The Job Involve?

The project involved the remodelling and refurbishment of the main building. Before commencing works, asbestos was removed. We then commenced an extensive strip out and demolition of internal walls. New walls were formed to create a new toilets, kitchen and store areas. Services throughout the building were renewed including a new boiler and water heaters, heating and ventilation and power, data, fire and security alarms.

A new main entrance canopy was created. The toilet and kitchen areas were completely fitted out with new facilities, ceilings and finishes. The mezzanine floor balcony and staircase were provided with a new modern glass balustrade. The main hall received a new ceiling with ‘integral smart lighting’. All areas were completely redecorated and new flooring installed throughout with electric blinds being fitted to the large hall windows.

What Were The Challenges?

Whilst the area benefitted from a large carpark area access to the building was limited to single doors. Access equipment and deliveries had to be negotiated through these small openings.

The project required a tight deadline over a summer period, as the facility had prearranged bookings including those for a private nursery. Despite the addition of asbestos removal at commencement, the project was delivered on time.

The existing main hall floor was a composite product that was not as expected. Rather than laying a new floating floor a levelling screed was utilised saving time and money.

Beardwell’s Added Value

Whilst on site we completed additional minor works for the Council free of charge.

We undertook design liaison with the Parish Clerk to ensure that the layout of kitchens and toilets met with their expectations.

The budget was, of course, fixed and the Parish Council did not have access to further funds. VE was undertaken during the works to ensure that the budget was not exceeded.

What Did The Job Involve?

What Were The Challenges?

Beardwell’s Added Value

What Did The Job Involve?

The project at Herts & Essex High School involved the construction a new 1900m2 sports centre. This comprises a multi-use sports hall, reception, lobby, gym, changing rooms, offices, toilets and the largest judo dojo outside of Japan. A central double height reception area is located to the front of the building. The club area includes a bar and kitchen with views overlooking the sports pitches.

The main building was constructed using traditional foundations and a steel frame. Cladding for the building is a mixture of fair faced blockwork and cladding panels. A mixture of aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling were integrated into the facade. Internally changing rooms and WCs were fitted out and showers provided. Extensive drainage works were required including vast flood compensation swales. New gas and water services were brought into the site along with a new electrical substation and associated supplies.

What Were The Challenges?

The biggest challenge with delivering this project was the location of the site, which was in the middle of a green field area with no existing services. In addition a primary gas main was discovered crossing the main entrance. Permissions were required to bridge this for a temporary access before the supply had to be lowered to accommodate the new entrance. 

Connecting to the main sewer was an issue and involved tunnelling under the main road. At the same time as our project, the school had commissioned a specialist subcontract to construct some tennis courts and all-weather sports pitches. This meant that we had to coordinate our work with them, allowing them access through our site.

Beardwell’s Added Value

At the start of the project, Beardwell held a ground-breaking ceremony, involving staff and pupils and during the contract supported numerous school visits.

We carried out some minor works around the site, free of charge.

Beardwell also participated in the school’s careers day.