Case studies
Frank Rogers Building Contractors were appointed by the University of Liverpool and E3 Cube to undertake the full refurbishment of the Vine Court restaurant, transforming it into the new Bertie and Bella’s dining facility.
Located in a live and high-traffic university environment, the project presented multiple challenges. These included strict time constraints due to student living, complex demolition and remodelling requirements, and the need to deliver a high-specification finish. Close coordination with university operations and careful management of site access were crucial to delivering the works safely and efficiently. Due to the key milestone dates for the university and working around the students return the design elements required a great deal of fast and dedicated support.
The works began with the complete strip-out of the existing restaurant and kitchen facilities, followed by demolition of internal walls and ceilings in the Vine Court West Building. The refurbishment included a small lobby extension and a comprehensive remodelling of the internal layout to meet the client's goals. Key objectives included enhancing restaurant capacity, optimising kitchen efficiency, and creating a versatile space capable of delivering both café- and restaurant-style dining experiences.
The design required the integration of both fixed and flexible furniture options, and a reimagined, highly visible entrance to increase footfall and street presence. The project utilised modern equipment and methods, including the use of a spider crane for the installation of new glass and curtain walling, and a MEWP (mobile elevating work platform) for high-level access. Senior site management and detailed programming ensured precise coordination between trades and subcontractors. Working closer with our design team and supply chain we overcome the majority of issues in live real time enabling an efficient project management approach.
The £985,000 project was delivered over a 16-week period and completed on programme and to a high standard of finish. The result is a dynamic, modern restaurant space that meets the university’s aspirations for capacity, efficiency, and design. Client feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with praise for both the quality of the final product and the professionalism of the team throughout the works.
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